Archers Gauntlets US Terms

Archers Gauntlets by Faye Lamb

What is Being Made

Archers Gauntlets are a pair of protective hand coverings designed using crochet techniques. These mittens provide wrist and hand coverage, making them suitable for archery activities or general wear. The pattern includes instructions for both a left and right gauntlet, allowing crafters to create a complete matching pair.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created entirely using crochet as the primary craft method. The design is classified as intermediate level, making it suitable for crocheters with some experience beyond basic stitches. The pattern demonstrates practical crochet construction techniques that build foundational skills while creating a functional finished garment.

Stitches Used

The Archers Gauntlets pattern incorporates several fundamental crochet stitches to create both structure and texture:

• Single Crochet (sc) – used throughout the pattern to create a dense, sturdy fabric
• Half Double Crochet (hdc) – alternated with single crochet stitches to add variation in stitch height
• Chain (ch) – used to create the foundation and turning chains between rows
• Slip Stitch – noted in the pattern instructions as a counted stitch element

Construction Details

The gauntlets are constructed using a back loop only technique throughout the pattern. This specialized method of working into only the back loop of each stitch creates a distinctive ribbed texture that adds visual interest and elasticity to the finished piece. The alternating pattern of single crochet and half double crochet stitches, combined with the back loop technique, produces a fabric with both flexibility and structure suitable for a fitted gauntlet.

Each gauntlet begins with a chain foundation of 31 stitches, which reduces to 30 working stitches. The pattern uses a systematic row-by-row construction method, with rows alternating between different stitch combinations to build the gauntlet shape.

Materials and Tools

The pattern is designed to be worked with specific materials that ensure proper fit and drape:

• Yarn: Malabrigo Merino Worsted, 100g skein (approximately 192 meters / 210 yards per skein)
• Yarn Weight: Weight 4 – Worsted (US Terms) or Aran (UK Terms)
• Hook Size: 4.5mm crochet hook
• Additional Notions: Stitch markers for tracking pattern progress

The Aran weight yarn provides excellent stitch definition and creates a fabric with good structure, making it ideal for a fitted accessory like gauntlets. The Malabrigo Merino Worsted specifically offers a blend of durability and softness suitable for hand-worn items.

Pattern Information

This downloadable PDF pattern is designed and authored by Faye Lamb of Rainbow Valley Crochet, with copyright protection from 2018-2019. The pattern includes original photography and detailed row-by-row instructions for creating both the left and right gauntlets, allowing crafters to produce a complete, coordinated pair of protective hand coverings.