Monday, February 16, 2009

Monday, February 09, 2009

Take a Look

At first glance you might think these are regular mittens. But take a closer look and you'll notice the thumb is open.


Then look at the palm side and you will see that these are indeed fingerless mittens.


How cool is that!

Pattern: Negative Space
Source: Knitting New Mittens and Gloves by Robin Melanson
Yarn: Reynold's Lopi
Needles: US 10 & 10.5 DPNs

The unique design of this "half-glove with a tongue," allows the back of the hand to be covered for warmth, while the fingers remain free.

There are many fun elements in the construction of these mittens, including provisional cast-on, I-cord bind-off and applied I-cord (the cuff is an I-cord coil).

Everything I needed to know about working a technique that was new to me was explained, so I didn't have to go to another source for help.

I look forward to knitting other mittens and gloves from this book. There are 28 designs to choose from...I like them all.

Monday, February 02, 2009

Not Just a Neck Warmer

The beauty of this neck gaiter is its simplicity and versatility.



Worn as designed, it's long enough to pull up over your mouth and nose if needed. You can, of course, knit it to any length you want. The pattern suggests 8". Mine is 8.5".



Fold it in half for an extra thick neck warmer. I wore it this way for fishing on Friday night and it kept me toasty warm.



Doubled up like this, it can also be a headband/ear warmer. Two layers of wool did a excellent job of blocking the cool breeze on Saturday.



If you want more coverage, wear it as an open-topped hat.


I may have to knit another one, so I can wear two at once.

Free Pattern: Ribbed Neck Gaiter
Yarn: Araucanaia Nature Wool
Color: Am 0320
Needles: US 7, 16" circular