Ruza Mittens Knitting Pattern

Ruza Mittens in Berroco Millefiori

What is Being Made

The Ruza Mittens are a pair of fitted knitted mittens designed by Amy Christoffers. These mittens are constructed to fit with zero or negative ease, making them ideal for wearing inside larger mittens or layering under fingerless mitts. The finished mittens measure approximately 6½" around the hand and 11½" in length, offering a snug, form-fitting silhouette suitable for cold weather layering.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental and intermediate techniques. The mittens are worked in the round using the magic loop or double-pointed needles (dpns) method, which allows for seamless construction. Key shaping techniques include:

• Ribbed cuff construction using knit-through-the-back-loop (K1TBL) and purl-through-the-back-loop (P1TBL) stitches to create a stretchy, fitted opening
• Thumb gusset shaping using strategic increases (M1R and M1L increases) to create room for the thumb while maintaining the overall mitten structure
• Stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points throughout the rounds
• Waste yarn holders to temporarily hold stitches during the thumb division process

Stitches Used

The Ruza Mittens utilize a limited but essential stitch palette appropriate for intermediate knitters:

• Stockinette stitch (St st) forms the primary fabric of the mittens, created by knitting every round for a smooth, classic appearance
• Ribbing stitches (K1TBL and P1TBL) create the cuff, providing elasticity and a finished edge
• Increase stitches (M1R for right-leaning increases and M1L for left-leaning increases) shape the thumb gusset symmetrically

Materials and Tools

This pattern calls for specific materials to achieve the intended fit and appearance:

• Yarn: 1 ball of Berroco Millefiori (100 grams) in colorway #7887 Snapdragon. Berroco Millefiori is a specialty yarn that provides the distinctive appearance and drape of these mittens.
• Needles: 1 set of 4 double-pointed knitting needles in size 6 (4.00 mm), or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge
• Notions: 3 stitch markers (with 1 in a contrasting color to mark the beginning of each round), waste yarn for holding thumb stitches, and a tapestry needle for finishing

Gauge and Fit

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 32 rounds over 4 inches in stockinette stitch. The pattern instructions emphasize checking gauge before beginning, as variations in individual knitting tension will affect the final measurements. The mittens are intentionally designed with negative ease to create a fitted layer suitable for wearing under other gloves or mittens.

Pattern Difficulty

Rated as intermediate level, the Ruza Mittens are suitable for knitters with experience in basic techniques who are ready to tackle shaping and circular knitting. The project requires understanding of increases, stitch markers, and working in the round, making it an excellent progression for knitters advancing beyond beginner projects.