Gosling

Gosling Mittens by Melissa Schaschwary

What is Being Made

Gosling is a pair of knitted mittens designed by Melissa Schaschwary of Dandiliongirl Designs. These mittens are sized as a Large, fitting hands with a palm width of 7.5 to 8 inches and a length of 7.5 inches from the base of the heel to the tip of the middle finger. The pattern is written for personal and charity use, and the finished mittens feature decorative button details.

Knitting Techniques Used

This beginner-friendly mitten pattern employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for crafters new to the craft. The mittens are constructed using double-pointed needles (dpns) or a circular needle with the magic loop method (recommended for ease of working in the round). The pattern incorporates a thumb gusset construction, which creates shaping for the thumb opening and allows for a custom fit. Knitters will work in the round throughout the project, which is a core technique for seamless mitten construction.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The Gosling pattern utilizes essential knitting stitches and abbreviations including:

• Cast on (C/O) – the foundation stitch to begin the project
• Knit one (K1) – the basic knit stitch worked throughout
• Make one (M1) – an increase stitch used for shaping the thumb gusset
• Knit two together (K2tog) – a decrease stitch for shaping
• Yarn over (YO) – creates decorative eyelet holes or lace elements
• Slip marker (SM) – used to mark the beginning of rounds and pattern sections
• Stockinette stitch (SS) – the primary stitch pattern, worked as knit stitches in every round

The pattern is worked primarily in stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for mittens.

Materials and Gauge

The Gosling mittens require 120 yards of bulky to super chunky weight yarn, thick enough to meet the specified gauge. The recommended needle size is US size 13 double-pointed needles (dpns), or the equivalent circular needle for magic loop work. Additional materials include a darning needle for weaving in ends, 2 buttons for embellishment, and thread to attach them.

The pattern is designed to a gauge of 2.5 stitches and 4 rows over 1 inch in stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit and sizing.

Customization and Sizing

While written as a Large, the Gosling pattern offers flexibility for different hand sizes. Knitters can adjust the size by changing needle size to create smaller mittens, or by casting on a different number of stitches while maintaining the thumb gusset structure. The length can also be customized to suit individual preferences, allowing for personalized fit.