Paintbox Yarns Snowy Day Handwarmers Knitting Pattern

Paintbox Yarns Snowy Day Handwarmers: Beginner Knitted Mittens

What is Being Made

The Snowy Day Handwarmers are a pair of cozy mittens designed for young children, available in two size options to fit ages 3-5 years and 5-7 years. This free downloadable knitting pattern offers versatility with two design variations: plain mittens in a single color or striped mittens featuring two coordinating colors. The finished mittens measure approximately 14-16 cm in width and 15-17 cm in length, depending on the selected size.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

These handwarmers are worked flat on straight knitting needles rather than in the round, making them an excellent beginner-friendly project. The flat construction method simplifies the knitting process and is ideal for those new to mitten making. The pattern uses straightforward shaping techniques including increases and decreases to form the mitt structure, with clear instructions provided for both UK and US knitting terminology to accommodate knitters on either side of the Atlantic.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the Snowy Day Handwarmers is stocking stitch (also called stockinette stitch), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a neat appearance. Stocking stitch is worked by knitting on right-side rows and purling on wrong-side rows, producing the characteristic V-pattern texture. The pattern incorporates basic shaping stitches including knit, purl, increases, and decreases to construct the mittens' form and ensure proper fit.

Yarn and Materials Required

The Snowy Day Handwarmers are designed to be worked in Paintbox Yarns Simply Aran, a medium-weight yarn. For the plain mittens, one 100g ball of Simply Aran in Lipstick Pink is required. For the striped variation, knitters need one 100g ball each in two colors: Lipstick Pink (main color) and Ballet Pink (contrast color). The pattern calls for two pairs of knitting needles: 4½mm (UK 7 – US 7) needles and 5mm (UK 6 – US 8) needles. The 5mm needles are used for the main fabric, while the smaller 4½mm needles are typically used for ribbed cuffs or edgings to create a snug fit.

Gauge and Tension

The pattern specifies a tension (gauge) of 18 stitches and 24 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) when measured over stocking stitch using the 5mm needles. Checking gauge before beginning is essential, as working to incorrect tension will result in mittens that do not match the intended finished measurements and may not fit properly.

Pattern Features and Notes

• Instructions are provided for the smallest size with bracketed changes for the larger size throughout
• Pattern uses UK knitting terminology with US equivalents provided in parentheses
• Yarn quantities are approximate and based on average requirements
• Paintbox Yarns recommends using only the specified Simply Aran yarn to ensure the finished mittens match the intended design and fit
• Suitable for beginner knitters due to straightforward flat construction and basic stitch techniques

Difficulty Level

These mittens are classified as easy and beginner-appropriate, making them an ideal first mitten project for knitters developing their skills. The flat-worked construction eliminates the complexity of working in the round, while the use of basic stitches and simple shaping techniques keeps the pattern accessible to those new to garment knitting.