Puget Sound Fingerless Mitts

Puget Sound Fingerless Mitts by Bits N Bobs Boutique

What is Being Made

The Puget Sound Fingerless Mitts are a pair of adult-sized fingerless gloves designed by Maria J Scott of Bits N Bobs Boutique. These mitts are inspired by the natural water patterns found in the Puget Sound region, specifically drawing design inspiration from the mesmerizing swirls visible in the Tacoma Narrows and through Deception Pass. The fingerless style makes these mitts versatile for activities requiring hand mobility while maintaining warmth around the wrist and palm areas. The pattern is available in three adult sizes: Small, Medium, and Large, with finished measurements ranging from 6.25" to 7" in cuff circumference and 7" to 8" in hand circumference, with an 8" length.

Craft and Primary Technique

These mitts are created using the knitting craft. The project employs circular knitting techniques, which allows for seamless construction and even stitch development around the circumference of the hand and wrist. The use of circular needles facilitates the creation of tubular fabric without the need for seaming, resulting in a more comfortable and professional finish for a wearable garment.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The Puget Sound Fingerless Mitts incorporate several key knitting stitches and techniques:

• Stockinette stitch forms the base fabric, providing a smooth, classic knit surface that showcases the yarn's color and texture
• Cable stitch is featured in the pattern design, creating the signature swirling motifs that represent the water currents of the Puget Sound
• Ribbing is used for the cuff area to provide elasticity and a secure fit around the wrist
• The pattern requires the use of a cable needle or an extra double-pointed needle (DPN) to execute the cable stitches
• Stitch markers are used throughout the project to help track pattern repeats and structural points

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The recommended yarn for the Puget Sound Fingerless Mitts is Lolo Did It Sock in the colorway Don't Stop Believing. This yarn is composed of 80% superwash merino and 20% nylon, offering durability and easy care for a frequently-worn accessory. The yarn provides 463 yards per 115 grams, and you will need approximately 50–75 grams to complete the pattern depending on which size you are knitting.

The recommended needle size is US #1.5/2.5mm circular needles with a 32" cable. However, the pattern notes that you should always use a needle size that achieves the specified gauge, as individual knitting tension varies. The gauge for this project is 28 stitches and 40 rows per 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Additional notions required include a cable needle or extra DPN for cabling, stitch markers to track your progress, a darning needle for weaving in ends, and a stitch holder or waste yarn for holding stitches temporarily during construction.

Difficulty Level

The Puget Sound Fingerless Mitts are rated as an intermediate difficulty project. This classification reflects the inclusion of cable stitch techniques, which require familiarity with manipulating stitches on a cable needle and understanding how to read cable charts. While not a beginner project, knitters with foundational skills in circular knitting and basic stitch techniques will find this pattern manageable and rewarding.