Verso/recto fingerless gloves

Verso/Recto Fingerless Gloves by Katherine Vaughan

What is Being Made

These are reversible fingerless gloves designed by Katherine Vaughan, available in three adult sizes: Small, Medium, and Large. The gloves are crafted to fit hand circumferences of 6.5, 7, and 7.5 inches respectively, with a total length of 7.5, 8, and 8.5 inches. The defining feature of this design is its reversibility—the gloves can be worn with either side facing outward, inspired by the concept of book pages where opposite sides are called the "recto" and "verso."

Design Inspiration and Concept

The Verso/Recto Fingerless Gloves were inspired by the facing pages of an old book featuring lovely marbled paper. This inspiration directly informs the reversible construction, allowing wearers to enjoy two distinct colorways or patterns from a single pair of gloves. Fingerless gloves are presented as an ideal project for investing in soft, luxurious yarns without requiring extensive yardage, making them a practical yet indulgent knitting choice.

Craft and Primary Technique

This is a knitting project worked using the double pointed needle method. The pattern employs fundamental knitting construction techniques suitable for an intermediate skill level. The reversible construction requires careful attention to stitch placement and finishing to achieve the dual-sided wearability that defines this design.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The primary stitch used throughout the gloves is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for showcasing yarn texture and color. The pattern utilizes stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping, and stitch holders or waste yarn to manage stitches during the construction of the fingerless opening.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

• Yarn: DK weight wool blend yarn, requiring 200 yards (185 meters) for size Small, 240 yards (220 meters) for size Medium, and 280 yards (260 meters) for size Large
• Needles: One set of double pointed needles sized according to the desired glove size—US 4 (3.5mm) for Small, US 5 (3.75mm) for Medium, and US 6 (4mm) for Large
• Notions: Three stitch markers, two to three stitch holders or lengths of waste yarn for managing stitches, and a tapestry needle for finishing

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 23 stitches and 28 rows to 4 inches (10cm) in stockinette stitch using US 5 (3.75mm) needles. Sizing adjustments are achieved through gauge changes rather than stitch count variations, making accurate gauge checking essential before beginning the project. Knitters should swatch and measure carefully to ensure proper fit across the three available sizes.

Yarn Weight Considerations

The DK weight classification provides a balanced fabric weight suitable for fingerless gloves, offering enough structure to maintain shape while remaining lightweight for comfortable wear. The wool blend composition contributes to the softness and luxury feel emphasized in the pattern notes, making this an excellent project for showcasing premium yarn qualities without the commitment of a larger garment.