Simple fingerless mitts...

Back in the fall, when the temperatures started to drop, I caught the knitting bug. This is pretty common for me, and usually means that someone special will receive some hand knitted Christmas gifts! I have been knitting for years, but haven't really made it past the novice stage. However, simple knitting patterns are easy to find and don't have to be limited to dishcloths and pot holders! Here are some of the fingerless mitts I made for Andrew's preschool teachers!

These mitts were very simple. I am not a quick knitter and I was able to complete one mitt in an evening of knitting (About one episode of Downton Abbey). 

I completed the grey pair first, following a knitting pattern that I found on Pinterest. You can find the pattern here. The blue pair were very similar, but I altered the pattern to get a different look, the pattern for these can be found at the end of this post. 

We packaged the mitts by wrapping them and a Christmas card with twine. I loved the simple, rustic look and was happy that the mitts were displayed, rather than being covered up! Andrew's teachers were thrilled with their gift and very touched that I took the time to create something handmade... I was pretty proud!

Now that temps are above freezing, maybe they'll be able to get a little more use out of them!!

Simple Fingerless Mitts
worsted weight yarn, size 7 needles

Cast on 28 stitches (increase by increments of 2 for larger mitts)

Cuff - knit one row, pearl one row (for 5 rows)
Arm - knit 2, pearl 2 for 20 rows
Hand - knit one row, pearl one row (for 13 rows)
Trim - knit one row, pearl one row
Cast off all stitches

Sew together the top 5 stitches, and then sew together the length of the "Arm" and "Cuff", leaving a hole for the thumb. 

Simple Knitting Patterns...

The chilly weather has come on quickly and mittens and scarves will be making an appearance very soon! Like every year, the cooler weather and approaching holiday season have me searching for knitting patterns on line and investigating yarn selections at Michaels. Even though I have been knitting since I was a kid, I would still consider myself a novice. I've made my fair share of scarves, a few baby blankets and my most complicated endeavour... some mittens. However, after looking at some simple knitting patterns on Pinterest I think I may actually be able to attempt something a little more difficult!

Here's a handful of what I have found so far. The patterns look quite simple and the projects are super adorable. Click on the link below each picture for the patterns.

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Aren't these great? Let's see if I can actually finish one of them before it's warm again!

You can find much more on my new Pineterest board.