Ivy

Ivy Fingerless Mittens by Sharon Mooney

Project Overview

Ivy is a downloadable knitting pattern for fingerless mittens designed by independent designer Sharon Mooney. These block fingerless mitts are sized to 7.5 inches (19 centimeters) in circumference and 8 inches (20.3 centimeters) in length after light blocking. The pattern is rated at intermediate difficulty level, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic techniques.

Craft and Construction Method

This project uses the knitting craft, specifically circular knitting techniques worked on double pointed needles. The mittens are constructed in the round using stockinette stitch (also called stocking stitch), which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for fitted handwear. The pattern incorporates a thumb gusset construction method, which allows for a properly fitted thumb opening while maintaining the overall mitten structure. Light blocking is recommended after completion to achieve the final dimensions and even out the fabric.

Stitches and Techniques

• Stockinette Stitch (Stocking Stitch): The primary stitch used throughout the mittens, creating a smooth V-pattern fabric on the right side
• Circular Knitting: Mittens are worked in continuous rounds rather than flat pieces, eliminating the need for seaming
• Thumb Gusset Construction: Increases are strategically placed and marked to create a shaped opening for the thumb, ensuring proper fit and mobility
• Cast On and Bind Off: Standard cast on and bind off techniques to begin and finish the mittens securely

Materials Required

Yarn: The pattern calls for approximately two skeins of Pearl's Choice DK weight yarn (100% Extrafine Merino, 218 yards/200 meters per 3.5 ounces/100 grams). One skein is used in color Eue No. 73 (dark green) and one skein in color Ewe No. 45 (light green), allowing for colorwork or two-color construction.

Needles and Notions: A set of four size US 4/3.5 millimeter double pointed knitting needles is required for working in the round. Additional notions include two ring stitch markers for marking the thumb gusset shaping, one locking stitch marker to mark the beginning of rounds, a yarn needle or large embroidery needle for weaving in ends, and 6 inches of waste yarn in a contrasting color and matching weight to the dark green yarn for temporary stitch holding.

Gauge

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 5.5 stitches and 6.5 rounds to 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) over stockinette stitch using circular knitting method, measured before blocking. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the proper finished dimensions of the mittens.

Yarn Weight and Fiber Content

The DK (light worsted) yarn weight creates a fabric with good drape and structure suitable for fitted handwear. The 100% Extrafine Merino fiber provides softness, breathability, and natural elasticity, making these mittens comfortable for extended wear while maintaining their shape through blocking and regular use.