Goldimitts

Goldimitts Knitted Gloves and Mittens by Tracey Lee

What is Being Made

Goldimitts are a pair of knitted gloves or mittens designed by independent designer Tracey Lee. The pattern provides instructions for creating fitted hand coverings available in multiple sizes to accommodate both male and female teens and adults. The mittens feature a snug fit and come in two size options: Small (fitting hand circumference of 17-20cm or 7-8 inches) and Medium (fitting hand circumference of 20-23cm or 8-9 inches).

Techniques and Construction

Goldimitts are constructed using several intermediate-level knitting techniques that create both visual interest and functional fit. The pattern incorporates a thumb gusset with strategic increases to accommodate the thumb comfortably, and features a partial thumb design. The gusset is managed using a gusset marker (GM) to track increases during the shaping process.

The construction method involves cable work, which requires the use of a cable needle (cn) to create the textured, dimensional details characteristic of these mittens. Increases are worked using the Make 1 (M1) technique, specifically using the backwards loop method to add stitches for the thumb gusset shaping.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used in Goldimitts is stocking stitch, which creates a smooth, classic knit fabric. This is combined with a textured rib pattern that runs throughout the design, providing elasticity and a fitted appearance.

The signature design element is a cable that meanders across the back of the sleeve and hand portion of the mitt, continuing onto the palm side. The cable work is achieved through the following cable stitches:

• C2L (Cable 2 Left): Slip next 2 stitches to cable needle, hold at front of work, knit 2 stitches, then knit 2 stitches from cable needle
• C2R (Cable 2 Right): Slip next 2 stitches to cable needle, hold at back of work, knit 2 stitches, then knit 2 stitches from cable needle
• C2LP2 (Cable 2 Left Purl 2): Slip next 2 stitches to cable needle, hold at front, purl 2 stitches, then knit 2 stitches from cable needle
• C2RP2 (Cable 2 Right Purl 2): Slip next 2 stitches to cable needle, hold at back, knit 2 stitches, then purl 2 stitches from cable needle

Additional abbreviations used include standard knitting notation: K (knit), P (purl), S (slip next stitch purlwise with yarn at back), PM (place marker), SM (slip marker), and RM (remove marker).

Materials and Gauge

Goldimitts are designed to be worked in 4-ply yarn weight, which provides a lightweight yet durable fabric suitable for hand coverings. The recommended gauge for this pattern is 32 stitches and 40 rows over 10 centimeters (4 inches) in stocking stitch, which is essential for achieving the correct fit across the hand circumference.

The pattern requires knitting needles appropriate for 4-ply yarn and a cable needle for working the cable stitches that create the textured design element.

Difficulty Level

Goldimitts are rated as an intermediate difficulty pattern. This classification reflects the combination of techniques required, including cable work, gusset shaping with increases, and the coordination of multiple stitch patterns. Knitters should have foundational skills in basic stitches and be comfortable working with cable needles before attempting this project.