Pine Court Mitts

Pine Court Mitts by Shannon Squire

What is Being Made

Pine Court Mitts are a pair of fingerless mitts designed to fit most adult hands. These mitts measure approximately 8.5 inches tall from cuff to tip and 6.5 inches around at the base of the hand when measured after blocking. The finished mitts provide warmth and coverage for the hand and wrist while leaving fingers free for dexterity and tactile work.

Craft and Techniques

Pine Court Mitts are created using the knitting craft. This pattern is suitable for advanced beginner knitters, as it incorporates intermediate techniques including cable work and gusset construction. The mitts are worked in the round using small circumference knitting methods, which is a fundamental technique for creating seamless cylindrical garments like mittens and gloves.

The pattern employs a gusset—a triangular or wedge-shaped section—to create proper shaping around the thumb area, ensuring a comfortable and well-fitted mitt. Cable stitches add textural interest and visual depth to the finished piece. These techniques combine to create a structured, professional-looking garment suitable for intermediate knitters seeking to expand their skillset.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes several fundamental and intermediate knitting stitches:

• Stockinette stitch — the primary stitch used throughout, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric
• Cable stitches — twisted stitches that create raised, rope-like texture
• Knit through the back loop (k1tbl) — a variation that creates a twisted stitch for shaping
• Make one increases (m1l) — left-leaning increases used for gusset construction and shaping

Materials and Yarn

Pine Court Mitts require approximately 175 yards of fingering-weight yarn. The designer used Knit One Crochet Too Elfin Tweed in the colorway Berry Heather for the original sample. Fingering-weight yarn is a fine yarn suitable for creating detailed stitch definition and a refined fabric drape.

The project calls for US 2/3mm needles (or the size needed to achieve proper gauge) for small circumference knitting. Additional notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends during finishing.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 30 stitches over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in stockinette stitch, measured after blocking. However, the pattern notes that gauge is not crucial for this project, making it more forgiving for knitters who may not achieve exact gauge. Blocking—the process of wetting and shaping the finished knit—helps even out stitches and set the final dimensions to the measurements specified.