Alex's Mittens

Alex's Mittens by Rebekkah Kerner

What is Being Made

Alex's Mittens is a knitted mitten pattern designed for intermediate knitters. These mittens are constructed as a thicker, warmer option using heavy worsted to aran weight yarn. The pattern is sized to fit hands measuring approximately 8 inches in circumference, with approximately 1 inch of positive ease, resulting in finished mittens approximately 9 inches around. The design accommodates customization for different hand sizes and preferred fit levels.

Design Inspiration and Construction

Designer Rebekkah Kerner created this pattern after seeking a basic mitten design with specific construction qualities. The pattern draws inspiration from the shape and construction methods found in Charlene Schurch's mitten patterns, particularly adapting her fingering and sport weight approaches to a heavier yarn weight. This adaptation allows for a more substantial, durable mitten suitable for colder weather.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Knitting in the round using double-pointed needles
• Stockinette stitch construction
• Stitch marker placement for pattern tracking
• Provisional cast-on using smooth scrap yarn
• Grafting or binding off techniques for seamless finishing

Materials Required

Yarn: 100 grams of Cascade Eco Wool, a heavy worsted to aran weight yarn. This yardage equals approximately 190 yards, sourced from 250-gram skeins containing 478 yards total.

Tools: Size 6 double-pointed needles (or size needed to achieve proper gauge), 2 stitch markers, 2 lengths of smooth scrap yarn for provisional cast-on, and a darning needle for weaving in ends and grafting.

Gauge and Specifications

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 5.5 stitches and 7 rows per inch when knitting stockinette stitch in the round. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit, particularly given the fitted nature of mittens with minimal ease.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills in circular knitting, stitch markers, and basic shaping techniques. The straightforward stockinette construction combined with in-the-round knitting methods makes this an accessible intermediate project.