Elementary Mittens

Elementary Mittens by Tanja Osswald

What is Being Made

Elementary Mittens are a pair of crocheted mittens designed by Tanja Osswald. These mittens measure approximately 20 cm (8 inches) in length when worn. The design features a distinctive cabled thumbhole, making them both functional and visually interesting while maintaining a straightforward construction suitable for intermediate crocheters.

Crochet Techniques Used

The primary technique featured in this pattern is back loop only slip stitches, which creates a textured, elastic fabric. This stitch method contributes to the mittens' stretch and flexibility, making them comfortable to wear. The pattern is extensively photo-illustrated to guide crafters through each step of construction, with detailed visual references throughout the instructions.

Stitches and Construction

The mittens are worked using slip stitches worked in the back loop only, a technique that produces a distinctive ribbed appearance and provides excellent stretch. The cabled thumbhole is a key design feature that adds both aesthetic interest and practical functionality to the mittens. The pattern includes specific stitch counts and row-by-row instructions beginning on page 14 of the downloadable PDF.

Materials and Tools

• Yarn: Katia Darling in 4-ply weight (fingering weight, on the thicker side of the fingering range) — approximately 35 grams (130 yards/120 meters) required; 31 grams were used for the model mittens
• Crochet Hook: 4 mm
• Additional Tools: Darning needle for seaming

Gauge and Specifications

The pattern specifies a gauge of 23 stitches over 10 cm (4 inches) when worked in the main stitch pattern and measured unstretched. Row gauge is noted as difficult to determine precisely due to the inherent stretch of the slip stitch technique used throughout the mittens.

Pattern Details

This is a downloadable PDF pattern at intermediate difficulty level, making it suitable for crocheters with some experience. The pattern is photo-heavy and includes comprehensive visual guidance. Crafters are advised to read through the entire pattern before beginning and to selectively print only the pages needed for reference during construction.