Blue Sky Fibers Extra Cable Mitts Gloves Knitting Pattern

Blue Sky Fibers Extra Cable Mitts

Project Overview

The Extra Cable Mitts are a pair of fingerless mitts designed by Valerie Teppo as part of The Traveler Series. These intermediate-level knitted mitts feature decorative cable work and are constructed seamlessly in the round from the bottom up. The finished mitts measure 7 inches in circumference and 8½ inches in length, offering a one-size-fits-all fit thanks to their stretchy ribbed construction. One hank of yarn provides enough yardage to knit a complete pair with leftover yarn suitable for creating a second pair.

Techniques and Construction Method

These mitts are worked seamlessly in the round using the bottom-up construction method, which allows knitters to try on the piece as it progresses and easily adjust the fit. The seamless construction eliminates the need for finishing seams, creating a polished, professional appearance. The design incorporates cable techniques as a central design element, requiring the use of a cable needle to create twisted stitch patterns. The mitts feature a thumb opening worked separately from the main body, with stitches picked up and knit to complete the thumb section.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Extra Cable Mitts utilize several fundamental knitting stitches and techniques:

• Knit and Purl Stitches: The foundation of the ribbed sections, creating vertical lines of texture
• 2x2 Ribbing: Used for the cuff and final rows, providing stretch and elasticity for a secure fit
• Cable Stitches: Two primary cable crosses are featured in the pattern—3/3 LC (left cable) and 3/3 RC (right cable). These cables are created by slipping 3 stitches to a cable needle, holding it to the front or back as specified, then knitting the next 3 stitches followed by the stitches from the cable needle
• Increases: M1L (make one left) and M1R (make one right) are used to shape the thumb gusset by creating new stitches between existing stitches
• Slip Stitches and Markers: Used for pattern management and construction guidance

Materials and Tools

The Extra Cable Mitts are knitted with Blue Sky Fibers Extra yarn, a blend of 55% Baby Alpaca and 45% Fine Merino. One 150-gram hank provides 218 yards of yarn, sufficient for a complete pair of mitts. The recommended gauge is 16 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches when measured in rib stitch. Knitters should use Size 9 (5.5 mm) double-pointed needles or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge. Additional tools required include a cable needle for executing the cable crosses, a stitch holder or waste yarn for holding stitches during construction, a stitch marker for tracking pattern repeats and increases, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Difficulty Level and Skill Requirements

Rated as an intermediate project, the Extra Cable Mitts require knitters to be comfortable with working in the round on double-pointed needles, reading stitch abbreviations and pattern charts, executing cable crosses with a cable needle, and managing increases for shaping. The seamless in-the-round construction and cable work place this project slightly above beginner level, making it an excellent choice for knitters looking to expand their skills beyond basic stockinette stitch projects.