Rowan Lace Mitts

Rowan Lace Mitts by Fox and Folk

What is Being Made

The Rowan Lace Mitts are a pair of fingerless gloves designed by Fox and Folk. These mitts are available in two sizes: S-M and M-L, making them suitable for a range of hand sizes. Fingerless mitts are practical accessories that keep hands warm while allowing full finger mobility for tasks requiring dexterity.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental and decorative techniques. The mitts begin with a cast-on of 36 stitches worked in the round using double-pointed needles (DPNs). The cuff is constructed using ribbing (K1, P1 ribbing), which creates elasticity and helps the mitts fit snugly around the wrist. The main body is worked in stockinette stitch, a smooth, classic fabric created by alternating knit and purl rows. Lace elements are incorporated through a charted pattern section, adding visual interest and breathability to the design. The pattern includes increases (make 1 right and make 1 left) to shape the hand, and decreases (knit two together, slip-slip-knit, and double decreases) to tailor the fit.

Stitches and Abbreviations

The Rowan Lace Mitts utilize the following stitches and techniques:

• CO (Cast On): The foundation method for creating stitches on the needles
• BO (Bind Off): The finishing technique to secure stitches and complete edges
• K (Knit): The primary stitch creating the smooth stockinette fabric
• P (Purl): Used in ribbing and textural elements
• YO (Yarn Over): Creates deliberate holes for lace patterning
• K2tog (Knit Two Together): A right-leaning decrease
• SSK (Slip, Slip, Knit): A left-leaning decrease for balanced lace shaping
• M1R (Make 1 Right) and M1L (Make 1 Left): Increases that add stitches while maintaining pattern continuity
• DD (Double Decrease): A centered decrease technique for shaping
• PM (Place Marker), SM (Slip Marker), RM (Remove Marker): Techniques for tracking pattern sections and round beginnings

Materials and Gauge

The Rowan Lace Mitts are knitted using worsted weight yarn, requiring 85 yards (78 meters) for size S-M and 95 yards (86 meters) for size M-L. The project calls for US size 6 (4 mm) double-pointed needles for size S-M and US size 7 (4.5 mm) double-pointed needles for size M-L. Additional materials include a yarn needle for weaving in ends and stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats.

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct fit. The pattern specifies a gauge of 11 stitches per 2 inches (10.5 stitches per 5 cm) in stockinette stitch for size S-M, and 10 stitches per 2 inches (10 stitches per 5 cm) in stockinette stitch for size M-L. Knitters should swatch before beginning to ensure their tension matches these specifications.

Pattern Construction

The mitts are worked in the round from the cuff upward. The left hand begins with a cast-on of 36 stitches joined in the round. The first 1.5 inches (2.5 cm) are worked in K1, P1 ribbing to create an elastic cuff. Following the ribbing, a hand set-up row incorporates increases (M1R and M1L) to expand the stitch count to 38 stitches, shaping the mitt to fit the hand comfortably. The main body continues in stockinette stitch with a charted lace pattern section, combining decorative yarn overs and decreases to create the signature lace detail that defines these mitts.