So Twisted Mitts

So Twisted Mitts by Handmade By Zan Designs

Project Overview

So Twisted Mitts is an intermediate-level knitting pattern designed to create a pair of twisted cable gloves. This downloadable PDF pattern was created by Susanne Talluri and is part of the So Twisted collection, which includes a coordinating hat design. The mitts are available in two sizes: S/M (7.75" to 8.5" around) and L/XL (8.5" to 9.5" around), making them suitable for a range of hand sizes.

Techniques and Stitches

So Twisted Mitts employs several intermediate knitting techniques that create visual interest through cable work and twisted stitches. The pattern uses the following core stitches and techniques:

• Knit and Purl Stitches: The foundation of the pattern uses basic knit (k) and purl (p) stitches to create texture and structure.
• Through-the-Back-Loop Knitting: The pattern incorporates k1tbl (knit 1 stitch through the back loop), which creates a twisted appearance and adds visual dimension to the finished mitts.
• Cable Crosses: Two primary cable techniques are used: L2C1 (left 2-cable 1) and R1C2 (right 1-cable 2). These are worked over 3 stitches using a cable needle (cn). L2C1 involves slipping stitches to a cable needle, holding it in front of the work, then knitting through the back loop and purling before completing the cable from the cable needle. R1C2 reverses this process by holding the cable needle in back of the work.
• Increases: The pattern uses M1L (make one left) and M1R (make one right) increases, which are created by lifting yarn between designated stitches and knitting through the lifted loop. These increases are directional and help shape the mitts.
• Decreases: K2tog (knit 2 stitches together) is used for decreasing stitches as needed in the pattern shaping.
• Slip Stitches: The sl (slip) stitch is used throughout, particularly in cable work and for joining rounds.
• Marker Placement: The pattern uses markers (pm = place marker, sm = slip marker, rm = remove marker) to track pattern repeats and the beginning of rounds.

Construction Method

So Twisted Mitts are constructed in the round using circular needles or double-pointed needles, as indicated by the pattern's use of "rnd(s)" (rounds) and references to Needle 1 and Needle 2 (Ndl1, Ndl2). This construction method allows for seamless mitts and makes it easy to try on the garment as you work. The pattern is written for right-handed knitters.

Materials Required

This pattern is designed for worsted weight yarn, which is a medium-weight yarn suitable for creating structured, durable garments. Worsted weight yarn works up quickly and provides good stitch definition, making it ideal for showcasing the twisted cable details in So Twisted Mitts. In addition to yarn, you will need appropriate needles for worsted weight yarn and a cable needle for executing the cable crosses.

Skill Level

So Twisted Mitts is rated as an intermediate difficulty pattern. This rating reflects the inclusion of cable work, twisted stitches, and directional increases. Knitters should be comfortable with basic stitches and have experience working in the round before attempting this pattern. The cable techniques and through-the-back-loop stitching add complexity beyond beginner patterns but remain accessible to knitters building their skills.