Quite Contrary

Quite Contrary Knitted Lace Mittens by ArgentGal Designs

Project Overview

Quite Contrary is an advanced knitting pattern for lacy mittens designed by Theressa Silver Mary and inspired by the classic nursery rhyme "Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary." This downloadable PDF pattern transforms the whimsical imagery of Mary's garden into wearable art, featuring decorative motifs that celebrate the nursery rhyme's botanical theme throughout the mitt construction.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a pair of fingerless mittens or gloves with intricate lace detailing. The finished mittens are designed for a hand circumference of 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) unstretched and a wrist circumference of 5.75 inches (14.6 cm) unstretched, making them suitable for average adult hands. The mittens feature multiple decorative elements inspired by the garden theme of the nursery rhyme.

Design Elements and Motifs

• Silver Bells at the Cuff: The cuff features silver bells, referencing the "silver bells" mentioned in the nursery rhyme
• Cockle Shell Row: A neat row of cockle shells runs from the cuff up the inside to the top of the thumb, creating a distinctive vertical line detail
• Lattice Wrist Definition: A lattice stitch pattern defines the wrist area, adding structural interest and visual texture
• Vine Motif: An elegant vine motif adorns the hand portion, completing the garden-inspired aesthetic

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This advanced-level pattern employs several sophisticated knitting techniques appropriate for experienced crafters. The construction utilizes stockinette stitch as the primary fabric base, which provides a smooth, classic foundation for the lace elements. The pattern incorporates lace knitting techniques throughout, requiring careful attention to yarn overs and decreases to create the openwork designs.

The pattern uses chart-based instructions for the decorative elements, including the Cockle Shell chart and vine motif chart, which require reading and following visual stitch diagrams. Cable techniques may be employed in the lattice wrist section, as indicated by the inclusion of a cable needle in the materials list. The mittens are constructed in the round using circular knitting methods on double-pointed needles, which allows for seamless construction and proper shaping around the hand and thumb.

The pattern involves cast-on techniques for creating new stitches mid-pattern (as shown in the sample instructions with "CO 8"), demonstrating intermediate construction methods. Stitch markers are recommended for tracking pattern repeats and maintaining proper alignment throughout the rounds.

Materials Required

• Yarn: 300 yards of fingering weight yarn (4-ply), which provides the delicate gauge necessary for the lace detailing
• Needles: Set of 5 US size 2 double-pointed needles for working in the round
• Additional Notions: Cable needle for any twisted or cable stitches, stitch holders or scrap yarn for holding stitches, stitch markers for pattern tracking, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 28 stitches and 42 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Achieving proper gauge is essential for this advanced pattern to ensure the mittens fit correctly and the lace motifs display as intended. The fingering weight yarn and small needle size create a fine, delicate fabric suitable for the intricate stitch patterns.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as advanced and is best suited for experienced knitters who are comfortable with lace knitting, chart reading, cable techniques, and working in the round on double-pointed needles. The combination of multiple stitch patterns, mid-row cast-ons, and precise gauge requirements makes this an excellent project for knitters looking to expand their technical skills.