Warm hugs

Warm Hugs Mittens by Kelly Spenhoff

What is Being Made

Warm Hugs is a pair of knitted mittens designed by Kelly Spenhoff. This downloadable knitting pattern creates adult-sized mittens with a one-size-fits-many design. The finished mittens measure 16 inches (40.5 centimeters) in length, with a stretchy cuff that expands to 6 inches (15.25 centimeters) across when measured flat. These mittens are ideal for keeping hands warm during cold weather while maintaining an elegant, fitted silhouette.

Knitting Techniques and Skills

Warm Hugs is classified as a beginner-level knitting project, making it accessible to knitters who are just starting their craft journey. The pattern requires fundamental knitting skills including the ability to knit and purl stitches, as well as experience knitting in the round. The mittens are worked using the in-the-round technique, which creates seamless fabric and is a valuable skill for any knitter to develop. The gauge for this project is 6.5 stitches and 11 rows per 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) when measured in stockinette stitch with light stretching, which helps ensure proper fit and drape.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch construction in Warm Hugs utilizes stockinette stitch, the most fundamental stitch pattern in knitting that creates a smooth, classic fabric. The pattern also incorporates knit 2 together (k2tog), a basic decrease stitch used for shaping the mittens to fit the hand properly. These essential stitches combine to create a straightforward construction that is perfect for beginner knitters while producing professional-looking results.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

Warm Hugs is designed to work with fingering weight yarn, which is a thin yarn that creates delicate, well-defined stitch definition. The pattern cleverly uses four different colors to create visual interest and was specifically designed to use six full Madelinetosh Unicorn Tails. The yardage requirements are as follows:

• Colors A and D: 104 yards (95 meters) each—requiring 2 skeins of each color
• Colors B and C: 52 yards (48 meters) each—requiring 1 skein of each color

The designer notes that the yardage calculation includes unravelling the gauge swatch to incorporate into the finished project, demonstrating resourceful yarn usage. US3 double pointed needles are required to work the mittens in the round, and a yarn needle is needed for weaving in ends and finishing. This combination of materials creates mittens with excellent elasticity and warmth while maintaining a refined appearance.