Rimpled Mitts

Rimpled Mitts by Shannon Squire

Project Overview

Rimpled Mitts are a pair of beginner-friendly knitted gloves designed by Shannon Squire. These fingerless mitts combine simple construction with textured stitch work, making them an ideal project for knitters looking to develop their skills in small circumference knitting and basic shaping techniques.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a pair of fitted fingerless mitts measuring 7 inches in length with a 7-inch circumference at the base of the thumb (3.5 inches across when laid flat). The mitts are designed to be worn as hand coverings that leave the fingers exposed, making them practical for activities requiring dexterity while keeping the hands and wrists warm.

Knitting Techniques

The Rimpled Mitts pattern employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for advanced beginners. The construction involves small circumference knitting, which requires working in the round using appropriate needles to create seamless tubular fabric. The pattern incorporates increases using the kfb (knit into front and back) technique to shape the mitt as it progresses from the wrist to the thumb area. Stitch markers are used throughout to help track pattern repeats and shaping points, and the finished piece is blocked to achieve proper gauge and definition of the textured stitches.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The primary stitch used in this pattern is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic knit fabric. The pattern name, "Rimpled Mitts," suggests the inclusion of textured or gathered elements that create visual interest and dimension. The abbreviations provided indicate the use of standard knitting stitches including:

• Knit (k) and purl (p) stitches for basic fabric construction
• Kfb (knit into front and back) for increases that shape the mitt
• Slip stitch (sl) and pass slipped stitch over (psso) for decreases and stitch manipulation
• Stitch markers placed and managed throughout to organize the work

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern requires approximately 160 yards of fingering-weight yarn. The designer used Crystal Palace Mini Mochi in the Tapestry Rainbow colorway for the sample, though any fingering-weight yarn of similar yardage and characteristics will work.

Needles: US 2/3mm needles are recommended for small circumference knitting, or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge. These smaller needles are essential for working with fingering-weight yarn and creating the proper fabric density.

Notions and Accessories: Stitch markers are necessary for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points throughout the project. A tapestry needle is required for weaving in yarn ends and finishing the mitts.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 30 stitches and 40 rounds over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in stockinette stitch, measured after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for creating mitts that fit correctly at the intended 7-inch circumference. Blocking the finished mitts helps set the stitches and enhances the definition of any textured elements in the design.

Skill Level and Difficulty

Rimpled Mitts are rated as an advanced beginner project, making them suitable for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to develop skills in increasing techniques and small circumference knitting. The pattern provides clear abbreviations and assumes familiarity with fundamental knitting terminology and methods.