Wee Woodland Loafers

Wee Woodland Loafers by Claire Slade

What Is Being Made

The Wee Woodland Loafers are a children's slipper pattern designed as a smaller version of the original Woodland Loafers. These knitted loafers feature structured shaping at the heel, toe, and sole, creating a finished shoe-like garment suitable for young wearers. The pattern includes seven different sizes to accommodate various children's feet, with sole lengths intentionally designed slightly shorter than standard shoe size recommendations to account for yarn stretchiness and ensure a snug fit. If a child's shoe size falls between two pattern sizes, the pattern recommends selecting the smaller of the two options.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key shaping techniques to construct a three-dimensional loafer form. Short rows are a primary technique used throughout the pattern, specifically the wrap and turn method, though the pattern notes indicate that knitters may substitute their own preferred short row method if desired. The combination of short rows at the heel and toe creates the structured shaping characteristic of loafer construction. The pattern also utilizes garter stitch and stockinette stitch in different sections, with each stitch pattern having its own specific gauge requirements to ensure proper fit and finished dimensions.

Stitches Used

• Garter stitch – worked at a gauge of 20 stitches by 44 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters)
• Stockinette stitch – worked at a gauge of 20 stitches by 32 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters)
• Short rows with wrap and turn method – for heel and toe shaping

Materials and Tools

The Wee Woodland Loafers are knitted using aran or heavy worsted weight yarn. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 50 yards (46 meters) for the smallest size up to 140 yards (128 meters) for the largest size. The pattern calls for 3.75mm (US5) double-pointed needles (DPNs) or alternatively a long circular needle worked using the magic loop method. Two stitch markers are required to track pattern sections. The sample shown in the pattern was knitted using Malabrigo Wool yarn. Achieving proper gauge is emphasized as very important, as it directly affects the finished dimensions and fit of the completed loafers.