Under April Ivy

Under April Ivy Knit Mittens by Liz Hewson

Project Overview

Under April Ivy is an intermediate-level knitted mitten pattern designed by independent designer Liz Hewson. These mittens feature colorwork detailing and are sized to fit average adult hands, measuring 10.5 inches (26.7 cm) from the bottom of the cuff to the tip of the fingers, with a width of 4.25 inches (10.8 cm) when unstretched. The pattern includes instructions for both left and right mittens.

Knitting Techniques

This pattern employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The mittens are constructed using the in-the-round method, which creates seamless, tubular fabric ideal for fitted garments. The cuff section utilizes a Kihnu Troi cast-on, a traditional technique that creates an elastic, finished edge perfect for mitten openings. Colorwork knitting is incorporated throughout the design, allowing crafters to work with two colors simultaneously to create patterned sections in the cuff and body of the mittens.

Stitches and Construction

The pattern is worked with a gauge of 34 stitches and 35 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in colorwork. The mittens begin with a cast-on of 60 stitches, which are divided evenly—30 stitches on the front needle and 30 stitches on the back needle—to establish the cuff. The cuff features charted colorwork patterns that repeat twice around the circumference, creating balanced visual interest on both the front and back of the cuff. Once the cuff is complete, stitches are redistributed for the mitten body, with 33 stitches on the front needle and 27 stitches on the back needle, allowing for proper shaping and fit. The pattern includes specific charts for left and right mittens, ensuring proper colorwork placement and symmetry.

Materials Required

This downloadable PDF pattern calls for Knit Picks Palette yarn in 4-ply weight. The color palette includes:

• Pistachio (25550) as the main color (MC) — one ball
• Merlot Heather (24014) as the contrasting color (CC) — one ball

Additional supplies include US 2 (2.75mm) knitting needles, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and small stitch holders for managing stitches during construction.

Pattern Format

Under April Ivy is provided as a downloadable PDF, making it accessible for immediate use. The pattern is sized as One Size, designed to fit average adult hands comfortably.