Kananaskis Fingerless Mitts

Kananaskis Fingerless Mitts by Corrine Walcher

What is Being Made

The Kananaskis Fingerless Mitts are a pair of hand-warming accessories designed to leave the fingers exposed for dexterity and movement. These mitts feature a mirrored cable pattern combined with ribbing around the palm area, creating both visual interest and functional stretch. The finished cuff and hand measure 5 inches unstretched, expanding up to 8 inches when stretched for comfortable wear. These mitts were originally designed to coordinate with the Nakiska Cardigan, and matching hat and cowl designs are available to create a completely coordinated set.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Kananaskis Fingerless Mitts employ several intermediate-level knitting techniques to achieve their polished appearance. The pattern utilizes mirrored cable work, which requires careful stitch manipulation to create symmetrical twisted stitches on both sides of the hand. Ribbing is incorporated around the palm section to provide elasticity and a snug, cozy fit that moves with the wearer. The mitts are knit in the round using either a set of five double-pointed needles or your preferred circular knitting method, which creates seamless construction ideal for fitted accessories.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

This pattern employs a range of fundamental and intermediate stitches to construct the mitts:

• Knit (K) and Purl (P) stitches form the foundation of the stockinette and ribbed sections
• K2tog (knit two together) and SSK (slip, slip, knit) are used for decreasing stitches, particularly in shaping the hand opening
• KFB (knit into front and back of stitch) and M1 (make one) are employed for increasing stitches to shape the mitts
• Cable stitches create the mirrored twisted pattern that defines the visual design
• Ribbing stitches (alternating knit and purl) provide stretch and recovery around the palm
• PM (place marker) and SM (slip marker) help track pattern repeats and shaping points during construction

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The sample mitts were knit using Dragonfly Fibers Traveller, a 100% Merino yarn that provides softness and breathability ideal for hand-worn accessories. This yarn is available in 280-yard skeins per 4 ounces, offering excellent yardage for small projects. The sample shown was knit in the Dragonberry colorway. The pattern accommodates DK and Sport weight yarns, making it adaptable to various fiber options while maintaining the intended fabric characteristics.

Needles required include a set of 5 US size 5 (3.75 mm) double-pointed needles, or you may substitute your preferred method for knitting in the round, such as two circular needles or a long circular needle. Needle size should be adjusted as needed to obtain the correct gauge.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in blocked stockinette stitch worked in the round. Achieving proper gauge is essential for ensuring the mitts fit correctly and that the stretched circumference reaches the intended 8 inches for comfortable wear over the hand.