Snowdrop Gauntlets

Snowdrop Gauntlets by Simone Francis

What is Being Made

The Snowdrop Gauntlets are a pair of crocheted arm-length gloves designed by Simone Francis. Inspired by 'the fair maids of February', these gauntlets are worked from the arm down and feature a twisted cable design. The pattern includes two size options: S/M and L/XL, accommodating various arm, wrist, and hand measurements. The finished length is 12¼ inches (31 cm) for both sizes, making them a substantial accessory that extends from the hand up the forearm.

Crochet Techniques Used

The Snowdrop Gauntlets employ several intermediate-level crochet techniques to achieve their distinctive appearance and fit. The gloves are constructed using a top-down method, beginning at the arm and working downward toward the wrist. Shaping is accomplished through strategic decreases positioned to taper the wrist circumference. The pattern incorporates a twisted cable design as a central design element, which adds textural interest and visual depth to the finished garment. This combination of construction method and cable work places the project at an intermediate difficulty level, suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex stitch patterns.

Stitches and Special Stitches

The pattern utilizes a foundation double crochet stitch (Fdc) as a specialized technique. The foundation double crochet is a method of creating a foundation chain and first row of double crochet stitches simultaneously, eliminating the need for a separate foundation chain. The Fdc technique involves chaining two stitches, then inserting the hook into the first of these chains and working yarn over and pull-through sequences to create both the chain base and the double crochet stitch in one motion. This stitch is worked repeatedly until the desired number of foundation stitches are created. The use of foundation double crochet provides a more elastic and professional-looking foundation edge compared to traditional chain-and-row methods, which is particularly beneficial for fitted garments like gauntlets.

Materials: Yarn and Hooks

The Snowdrop Gauntlets are designed to be worked in King Cole Merino Blend 4 ply yarn in the shade Slate Blue (96). This yarn is 100% wool and offers excellent stitch definition and warmth. The pattern requires 2 balls of this yarn, with each ball containing 50 grams and 180 meters (204 yards) of yardage, providing sufficient fiber for both gauntlets across all sizes. A 3.5mm crochet hook is used to work the yarn to the correct gauge and fabric density. Additionally, 2 stitch markers are needed to track pattern repeats and shaping points throughout the construction, and a yarn needle is required for weaving in ends and finishing the garment.

Size Options

• S/M: Arm circumference 23 cm (9 in), Wrist circumference 19 cm (7½ in), Hand circumference 17 cm (6¾ in)
• L/XL: Arm circumference 25.5 cm (10 in), Wrist circumference 22 cm (8¾ in), Hand circumference 19 cm (7½ in)

Both sizes are finished at a length of 31 cm (12¼ inches), providing consistent coverage from wrist to mid-forearm.