Mod Buffalo Plaid Fingerless Gloves

Mod Buffalo Plaid Fingerless Gloves by Nicolle Bernard

What Is Being Made

The Mod Buffalo Plaid Fingerless Gloves are a pair of crocheted hand coverings designed to keep hands warm while leaving fingers exposed for dexterity and touchscreen use. These gloves feature a classic buffalo plaid pattern created through colorwork techniques using three distinct yarn colors. The finished gloves measure 7 inches in height with a width of 3.5 inches at the main body, expanding to 4.5 inches at the thumb hole and tapering to 2.5 inches at the bottom band. This intermediate-level crochet project is suitable for crafters with foundational skills who are ready to work with multiple colors and shaping techniques.

Crochet Techniques Used

This pattern employs several key crochet techniques to achieve its structured fit and distinctive appearance. Colorwork is central to creating the buffalo plaid design, requiring the crocheter to carry and switch between three yarn colors throughout the project. Back loop only (blo) stitching is utilized to create textural definition and help establish the plaid pattern's visual clarity. Shaping is incorporated through strategic increases and decreases to form the glove structure, including the expansion at the thumb hole and the narrowing at the wrist band. The pattern also involves seaming or joining techniques to complete the glove construction, with finishing work done using a tapestry needle.

Stitches Used

• Chain (ch) – Used for foundation chains and throughout the pattern for structure
• Single Crochet (sc) – The primary stitch providing a tight, dense fabric ideal for gloves
• Half Double Crochet (hdc) – Used selectively to add height and variation in texture
• Slip Stitch (sl st) – Employed for joining rounds and finishing edges
• Back Loop Only (blo) – Applied to specific stitches to enhance the plaid pattern definition

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Mod Buffalo Plaid Fingerless Gloves pattern calls for worsted weight yarn in three colors. The sample featured in the pattern uses Lion Brand Wool Ease, a category 4 yarn available in Black, Fisherman (off-white), and Oxford Grey. Yardage requirements are 60 yards in Black (B), 12 yards in White (W), and 30 yards in Grey (G) for a complete pair. The pattern notes that while Wool Ease is technically a category 4 yarn, it knits on the thinner side, so crafters using different worsted weight yarns should verify their gauge to ensure proper fit and sizing. A 4 mm crochet hook is recommended, with the option to use a larger or smaller hook depending on desired finished glove size. Additional supplies include scissors and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing seams.

Gauge and Sizing Information

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches by 16 rows per 4x4 inch square, which is essential for achieving the correct glove dimensions. Checking gauge before beginning the project is particularly important given the pattern's note about Lion Brand Wool Ease being thinner than typical category 4 yarns. Accurate gauge ensures the finished gloves will fit properly and maintain the intended structure and appearance of the buffalo plaid colorwork.