Strigidae Mitts

Strigidae Mitts by Glenna C

Project Overview

Strigidae Mitts is an intermediate-level knitting pattern designed to create a pair of fitted mittens with charted stitch details. This downloadable PDF pattern by independent designer Glenna C offers two size options to accommodate different hand sizes, making it a versatile project for knitters seeking a customized fit.

What Is Being Made

These are hand-fitted mittens constructed using the in-the-round knitting method. The pattern provides sizing for small and large hands, with finished hand circumferences of 6.25–6.75 inches (16–17 cm) for size S and 7–7.75 inches (18–19.5 cm) for size L, both worked with no ease or negative ease for a snug, body-hugging fit.

Knitting Techniques

• In-the-Round Construction: Mittens are worked circularly using either the Magic Loop method with two needles or double-pointed needles (DPNs) with three working needles, allowing knitters to choose their preferred technique.
• Charted Stitch Patterns: The pattern includes stitch charts that guide the colorwork or textured design elements, requiring knitters to read and follow charted instructions alongside written directions.
• Gauge Swatching: The pattern emphasizes the importance of working gauge swatches before beginning, as proper gauge ensures the mittens will fit correctly.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch: The primary stitch used in the mittens, worked at a gauge of 8 stitches and 10 rounds per 1 inch (2.5 cm) after blocking.
• Twisted Rib: A secondary stitch component worked at a relaxed gauge of 12 stitches and 10 rounds per 1 inch (2.5 cm) after blocking, adding textural interest and elasticity to the design.
• Charted Stitches: The pattern includes a glossary of charted stitches with accompanying charts to guide the decorative or structural elements of the mittens.

Materials and Tools

• Yarn: Fingering weight wool totaling approximately 225 yards (206 m) for size S or 250 yards (228 m) for size L. The pattern is shown worked in Miss Babs 'Cosmic' sock yarn in the colorway 'russet'.
• Needles: 2.5mm US #1.5 needles or the size needed to obtain the specified gauge. Knitters may use either two needles for the Magic Loop method or three needles for the DPN method.
• Notions: Waste yarn or a small stitch holder for holding stitches, stitch markers (optional), and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this pattern is suitable for knitters with foundational skills in in-the-round knitting and chart reading. The combination of multiple stitch types and the requirement to work from charted instructions makes this project ideal for those looking to expand their technical abilities beyond basic stockinette mittens.