Fingerless Gloves Knitting Pattern

Fingerless Gloves Knitting Pattern by Plymouth Yarn

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from Plymouth Yarn produces a pair of classic fingerless gloves designed to keep hands warm while leaving fingers free for dexterity and touchscreen use. The gloves measure approximately 7 inches wide by 10 inches long, making them a quick and satisfying project suitable for knitters of various skill levels. The pattern includes two distinct design variations, allowing crafters to choose their preferred aesthetic.

Materials and Tools Required

To complete this project, you will need one 100-gram ball of Encore Worsted yarn in your chosen color. The pattern is worked on US 7 double pointed needles, which allow for seamless in-the-round construction. Encore Worsted is a durable, easy-care yarn that works well for garments requiring frequent wear and washing.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 5 stitches per 1 inch measured over stockinette stitch. Maintaining proper gauge ensures the finished gloves will fit correctly and drape as intended. The finished dimensions are approximately 7 inches in width and 10 inches in length, though crafters can adjust the length to personal preference.

Plain Ribbing Design

The Plain Ribbing version, shown in color 7510, features a classic k2-p2 ribbing pattern throughout. This design begins with a loosely cast-on of 40 stitches divided evenly across three double pointed needles as 12-16-12 stitches. The ribbing provides excellent stretch and recovery, ensuring a comfortable, form-fitting garment.

Construction technique: After joining in the round with careful attention to avoid twisting stitches, knitters work continuous k2-p2 ribbing for 6 inches. The thumb opening is created by binding off 6 stitches on the second needle while maintaining the ribbing pattern, then casting those stitches back on in the following round to create an opening. Work continues in ribbing until the glove reaches 9 inches or the desired length, then stitches are bound off loosely to maintain the elastic quality of the ribbing.

Cable Twist Ribbing Design

The Cable Twist Ribbing variation, shown in color 1316, introduces textural interest through a repeating cable twist motif. This design uses the same 40-stitch cast-on divided as 12-16-12 stitches across three needles.

Stitch pattern: The Cable Twist Ribbing works a four-round repeat. Rounds 1 through 3 establish a standard k2-p2 ribbing pattern. Round 4 introduces the twist element: a twist 2 stitch (created by knitting 2 stitches together, then knitting the first stitch again) followed by p2, k2, p2. This creates a subtle but visually striking twisted cable effect that runs vertically up the glove. The four-round repeat continues until the glove reaches approximately 6 inches, ending with a completed Round 4.

The thumb opening is worked identically to the Plain Ribbing version, with 6 stitches bound off and then cast back on. Crafters continue in the twisted ribbing pattern until reaching 9 inches or desired length, then bind off loosely.

Knitting Techniques

This pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate beginners and beyond. In-the-round construction using double pointed needles eliminates the need for seaming and creates seamless, professional-looking garments. Ribbing is a foundational stitch pattern that combines knit and purl stitches to create vertical columns of texture with excellent elasticity.

The twist 2 stitch used in the Cable Twist Ribbing variation is a simple cable technique that requires only basic stitch manipulation. By knitting two stitches together and then knitting the first stitch again, crafters create a crossed stitch effect without the complexity of cable needles.

Gauge swatching is essential before beginning, as proper gauge ensures correct sizing and fit. The pattern also emphasizes loose casting on and binding off to maintain the elasticity of the ribbed fabric.

Finishing and Completion

Both designs require making a second glove to match the first. After completing both gloves, all yarn ends are woven in securely to finish the project professionally. The loose bind-off preserves the stretch of the ribbed cuff, ensuring comfortable wear.

Design credit: This pattern was designed by JoAnne Turcotte and is copyright 2008 Plymouth Yarn Company.