Although September in Minnesota has enjoyed a relative warm-up over the last week, we KNOW what is just around the corner: Cold and Snow. With that in mind, it's time to start preparing some stylish and functional cold weather accessories. What could be better than a perfect pair of mittens? Traditionally worn by kids, mittens of today transcend generations and you will certainly be able to machine knit the perfect pair for both young and old.
Be sure to think about your yarn choice. Acrylic may be a good option for kids, as it is easy to wash and maintain. Although warmer, wool requires a bit more care, and may be more suitable for adults. Although cotton mittens are not incredibly common (or warm), you may find it to be an excellent choice as a lining for your toasty mits.
If you've got some machine knitting experience under your belt, the great thing about knitting mittens is that you don't really even need a pattern. Design yourself a pair of mittens based on your hand measurements (width, finger length, thumb length, cuff height). Thumb placement varies widely from mitten to mitten, and seaming is often a matter of personal preference. Once you start knitting, be sure to take notes along the way so you can recreate the mittens, after all, you will likely receive many compliments!
There are many hem styles to consider when you start knitting your mittens. Some varied options include a picot edge, a hung hem, a ribbed cuff, and a rolled start to name a few. Try experimenting to see what works best for you - think about both comfort and aesthetic.
Similarly, you have quite a few choices when it comes to finishing the ends of your mittens. Different looks include gathered tops, tapered tops, and short rowed tops. You may want to keep in mind that short rowed tops are the least bulky and therefore perhaps more comfortable!
Once you've nailed down your preferred fit and style, or are working from an actual pattern, think about a way to add some special design elements to make the mittens unique to you:
- Embellish you mittens with Embroidery.
- Add stripes!
- Sew some ultrasuede on the palm for added steering wheel grip.
- Knit beads in to add a touch of pizazz.
- Make them fingerless!
- Line your mittens with fleece (be sure to knit your mittens a size bigger!).
- Use i-cord to attach a pair of mittens, that way you will never lose just one!
- Felt your wool mittens so they are dense and warm.
- Knit a couple dozen mini mittens to create a festive holiday wreath to hang on your front door!
One last word of advice: After making your first mitten, whether it be left or right, be sure to follow the opposite steps for the second - it would certainly be a drag to spend your time knitting two right mittens, not to mention uncomfortable!!
Assorted Machine Knitting Mitten Patterns:Standard Gauge Mittens for both kids and adults by Jane NiemiChildren's Mittens by Irene WoodsBaby Mitts by Maria Ann YoungsMid-Gauge Mittens by Ellen LevernierFingerless Mitts by KangaMooKnits.comFelted Mittens on the Bulky by Mar Heck
