Midlothian Mittens

Midlothian Mittens by Laura Chau

What is Being Made

The Midlothian Mittens are a pair of hand-warming mittens designed by Laura Chau, available in four sizes ranging from XS to L. These mittens feature a unique reversible construction that allows them to be worn on either hand for even wear and faster dressing. The finished circumference ranges from 7 to 10 inches around the knuckles of the outer mitten, with lengths from 8.5 to 9.5 inches from cuff to tip. The innovative design incorporates both an outer mitten and a soft laceweight lining, making them exceptionally warm while maintaining a snug fit.

Techniques and Construction Methods

These mittens showcase an innovative lining method that sets them apart from standard mitten patterns. The construction combines two layers—a DK weight outer mitten paired with a laceweight lining—creating extra insulation and warmth. The reversible design is a key technical feature, allowing knitters to flip the mittens between hands for balanced wear. This project is specifically noted as perfect for beginners exploring colourwork, making it an excellent introduction to two-color knitting techniques while maintaining intermediate difficulty overall. The pattern includes technical editing by Jaya Purswani, ensuring accuracy and clarity throughout the instructions.

Stitches and Knitting Details

While the PDF content focuses on the overall construction approach, the pattern employs colourwork techniques using a main color (MC) and contrasting color (CC) in DK weight yarn. The laceweight lining component introduces openwork stitch patterns that provide breathability while maintaining warmth. The combination of these different yarn weights and stitch types creates the signature structure of the Midlothian Mittens.

Materials Required

• Yarn for Outer Mitten: DK weight yarn in two colors—main color (MC) ranging from 105 to 185 yards depending on size, and contrasting color (CC) ranging from 80 to 140 yards. The pattern is shown knit in Tanis Fiber Arts Yellow Label DK, which is 100% superwash merino with 260 yards per 4 ounce skein, requiring only 1 skein.
• Yarn for Lining: Laceweight yarn for the soft lining component, though specific yardage is not detailed in the provided content.
• Needles: Appropriate needles for DK and laceweight yarns (specific needle size not specified in provided content).

Yarn Weight Specifications

The Midlothian Mittens utilize two distinct yarn weights to achieve their signature construction. The outer mitten is worked in DK weight yarn, a medium weight that knits up quickly while providing structure and durability. The lining is created using laceweight yarn, which is significantly finer and creates an open, breathable fabric that adds warmth through layering without bulk. This combination of yarn weights demonstrates how different fiber thicknesses can be strategically used within a single project to balance aesthetics, functionality, and comfort.