Valley Yarns Wavy Gravy Mittens Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Wavy Gravy Mittens

What is Being Made

The Valley Yarns Wavy Gravy Mittens are a pair of colorwork mittens designed by Emma Welford. These mittens measure 10 inches long with a 9.5-inch circumference around the palm. They feature a two-color geometric pattern that creates a visually interesting wavy effect while remaining accessible to knitters developing their skills.

Craft and Techniques

These mittens are created using the knitting craft and are worked in the round, which is a fundamental technique for creating seamless tubular garments. Knitters can choose between two methods for working in the round: using a set of five double-pointed needles or using a 40-inch circular needle with the Magic Loop technique. Working in the round eliminates the need for seaming and creates a more polished finished garment.

The pattern incorporates a thumb gusset construction, which involves strategic increases to create extra room for the thumb. This technique ensures comfortable fit and proper mitten functionality. The gusset is worked using paired increases (m1LA and m1RA, representing make-one-left and make-one-right increases) placed on either side of marked stitches, allowing the thumb opening to expand gradually as the mitten is constructed.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (k) – the primary stitch forming the fabric structure
• Purl stitch (p) – used in the cuff ribbing to create texture and elasticity
• Knit front and back (kfb) – an increase stitch used during the transition from cuff to hand
• Make-one-left (m1LA) and make-one-right (m1RA) – invisible increase stitches used for the thumb gusset shaping
• Stockinette stitch – the primary fabric stitch, created by knitting all rounds, providing a smooth, classic appearance
• Ribbed stitch – created by alternating knit and purl stitches in the cuff for stretch and recovery

Colorwork Pattern

The mittens feature a two-color geometric colorwork pattern that repeats over a multiple of four stitches. The pattern alternates between two colors (Color A: Ocean Heather and Color B: Jade) across six rounds, creating the distinctive wavy visual effect. The repeating pattern sequence is straightforward enough for advanced beginners to manage while adding visual interest and complexity to the finished mittens. The colorwork is stranded throughout the hand and upper portions of the mittens.

Materials and Specifications

The Wavy Gravy Mittens are constructed using Valley Yarns Northampton Bulky, a 100% wool yarn that provides warmth and durability. The pattern requires one skein each of two colors: Ocean Heather (Color A) and Jade (Color B). Each skein contains 109 yards of yardage per 100 grams, and the bulky weight ensures that the mittens knit up quickly despite their finished size.

Knitters will need a set of five US size 11 (8.0mm) double-pointed needles or a 40-inch circular needle, depending on their preferred method for working in the round. Additional materials include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and the thumb gusset increases.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 15 stitches and 35 rows equaling 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished measurements of 10 inches in length and 9.5 inches around the palm. The pattern notes indicate that needles should be adjusted as needed to achieve the specified gauge, allowing for customization based on individual knitting tension.

Difficulty Level

These mittens are rated as advanced beginner difficulty. While the fundamental techniques—knitting in the round, basic increases, and stockinette stitch—are within reach of knitters with some experience, the two-color stranded colorwork and thumb gusset shaping add complexity. The bulky yarn weight helps the project move quickly, making it an ideal choice for knitters looking to expand their skills with manageable challenges.