Tidal Mittens

Tidal Mittens by Stephanie Anderson

What is Being Made

The Tidal Mittens are a pair of knitted mittens designed by Stephanie Anderson and published by Simplie Bound. This intermediate-level knitting project produces fitted mittens available in two sizes: Small with a width of 3.25 inches (8 cm) and length of 10.5 inches (26.5 cm), or Medium with a width of 4 inches (10 cm) and length of 11.5 inches (29 cm). These mittens are suitable for knitters with some experience who are ready to tackle a project beyond basic techniques.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Tidal Mittens pattern employs knitting in the round as the primary construction method, which creates seamless mittens with a continuous fabric. This technique requires working with double-pointed needles (DPNs) to maintain stitches on multiple needles simultaneously. The pattern also incorporates the use of a cable needle and a place holder or scrap yarn, indicating that cable work or stitch manipulation is part of the design. The intermediate difficulty level suggests that knitters will encounter techniques beyond basic stockinette stitch, making this an excellent project for developing advanced knitting skills.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The mittens are worked primarily in Stockinette stitch in the round, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a V-shaped texture on the knit side. Stockinette in the round is achieved by knitting every row, producing the characteristic flat appearance that makes these mittens both visually appealing and practical. The pattern includes cable work, as indicated by the inclusion of a cable needle in the materials list, adding textural interest and visual depth to the finished mittens.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Tidal Mittens pattern calls for worsted weight yarn (weight category 4), with the recommended yarn being Lion Brand Wool-Ease. One skein of Lion Brand Wool-Ease contains 197 yards (180 meters) and weighs 3 ounces (85 grams) per ball, providing sufficient yardage for the project. Alternatively, knitters may substitute approximately 160 to 185 yards (147 to 156 meters) of any other worsted weight yarn. The pattern is worked on US 4 (3.5 mm) double-pointed needles, which are sized appropriately for worsted weight yarn and the desired fabric density.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 24 stitches by 34 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) when worked in Stockinette stitch in the round. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for ensuring that the finished mittens match the intended dimensions and fit properly. Knitters should always knit a gauge swatch before beginning the project to verify their personal gauge with the recommended needles and yarn.

Additional Materials

Beyond yarn and needles, the Tidal Mittens pattern requires a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing the mittens. A cable needle is necessary for executing cable stitches, and scrap yarn or a stitch place holder helps manage stitches during construction, particularly when dividing stitches for the thumb or transitioning between pattern sections.