Darkstar

Darkstar Mitts by Christine Guest

What is Being Made

The Darkstar Mitts are a pair of crocheted mittens designed to fit hands ranging from 6–7 cm to 9–10 cm in width, with finished palm circumferences of 5.75 inches (14.5 cm), 7 inches (18 cm), or 8.25 inches (21 cm) depending on size. These mittens are worked in a sideways construction method, creating a unique fabric structure with built-in stretch and visual texture.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

The Darkstar Mitts employ back loop single crochet as the primary stitch technique throughout the main body. Working into the back loop only creates a distinctive ribbed appearance and adds elasticity to the fabric, making these mittens comfortable and form-fitting. The sideways construction method means the mittens are crocheted horizontally rather than in the round, which influences how shaping and sizing are achieved. A contrasting color edging is incorporated into the design, allowing crafters to personalize their mittens by choosing their preferred contrast yarn.

Stitches Used

• Chain Stitch – used for foundation and construction
• Single Crochet in back loop only – the primary stitch forming the ribbed texture of the mitt body
• Single Crochet two together in back loops only – used for decreasing and shaping
• Slip Stitch – used for joining and finishing

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Darkstar Mitts are designed to be worked in sport weight yarn, specifically using Quince and Co. Chickadee, which is an American wool yarn at 181 yards per 50-gram skein (approximately 166 meters). Yarn requirements vary by size: the smallest size requires 145 yards (133 meters) or 1 skein of main color and 24 yards (22 meters) of contrasting color; the medium size requires 209 yards (190 meters) or 2 skeins of main color and 28 yards (26 meters) of contrasting color; the largest size requires 290 yards (265 meters) or 3 skeins of main color and 34 yards (31 meters) of contrasting color. The pattern is shown in Bark as the main color and Carrie's Yellow as the contrasting color. Crafters with leftover sport or DK weight yarn from other projects may be able to substitute for the contrasting color. A Size E/4 (3.5 mm) crochet hook or the size needed to obtain proper gauge is required, along with a tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Difficulty Level

These mittens are rated as intermediate difficulty, making them suitable for crocheters with some experience who are comfortable with back loop techniques, decreasing methods, and sideways construction approaches.