A tale of two mittens on the coldest day of the year
A short and maybe funny story about knitting plus knitting pattern recommendations
This week I’m here with a story about hand knit mittens and determination.
Not interested in a lengthy read? No problemo! Scroll to the very bottom for links to my recommended knitting patterns. They’re perfect for colder temps!
A tale of two mittens
My Christmas present this year from my husband was so thoughtful: a knitting pattern and a couple skeins of yarn to make a pair of mittens. Because I had “never made mittens before” he thought this would be a fun and useful project for me to learn something new.
I was excited and thankful. I also started wrestling with a problem I knew I’d soon encounter.
My husband had no clue that (1) I know how to knit mittens already and (2) I avoid knitting pairs of mittens (and other pairs of knit garments) for a good reason — I cannot finish them.
The first mitten, sock, or sleeve of a sweater is so enjoyable to make. I’m experiencing a pattern for the first time and learning how the item is constructed. Then comes garment number two… I know what I need to do and my brain is over it. Impatience sets in and an internal battle to finish the garment ensues. I usually lose.
This time would be different though. There’s no way I would abandon this project considering his gift was so thoughtful. I chanted internally to myself, “I will persevere. I will finish both mittens.”
I started knitting almost immediately. With determination and consistency, I had almost completed that first mitten within days. At this rate I projected I’d have the knit mittens finished within a week and then I could move on to another project. Easy!
And then a series of unfortunate events began.
Problem #1: The first mitten that was laughably oversized.
This mitten was HUGE. I was so excited to start the pattern that I did not measure my hands whatsoever. I chose the largest sizes without thinking because I have long piano-playing fingers. The mitten did not fit and I’d wasted my time. Doh!
The problem-solving gears in my brain started cranking… how can I save this project without starting over?
Light bulb moment #1: I will make these mittens for my husband.
Thoughtful, right? Does it matter that he showed no sign of wanting a pair of hand-knit mittens? Nope, that’s not the point. The oversized mitten fits his hand so it was no mistake at all. Back on track :)
Problem #2. I don’t have enough yarn for two mittens.
My husband accidentally bought two skeins of yarn in different colorways. They clashed horribly and I knew there was no way he would wear a pair of mismatched mittens that he had never even asked for.
What to do, what to do… more quick thinking was needed to salvage this project.
Light bulb moment #2: I will use the other skein of yarn for a mitten that fits my hand.
Yes, my struggle to knit a pair of mittens morphed into a commitment to knit TWO pairs of mittens.
I resolved that I would buy two more skeins of yarn and make a total of four mittens. His and Hers hand-knit mittens. Doesn’t that sound charming?
Again. I knit quickly and with determination. I convinced myself that my plan was both reasonable and manageable… and I kept knitting.
Fast-forward to today.
It’s the coldest day of the year and likely the coldest day we’ll see the rest of the winter. I’ve ventured outside a few times to feel the brisk air and go about my chores with my hands stuffed in my pockets.
My mitten turned out very nice! I love the colors and it fits so well. Eventually, when I knit the other two mittens, my husband and I will each have a warm pair of mittens that will be perfect for driving, taking the dog for walks, and standing around the fire pit.
Thanks for sticking with me through my attempt at a humorous short story. Read on for your reward… knitting pattern recommendations!
Cozy knitting patterns for cold weather
Whether you’re looking for your next projects or need a distraction for a current work in project, I’ve got a few recommendations that I hope you love:
World's Simplest Mittens
This is the knitting pattern for my unfinished mittens. It’s super easy, the pattern is free, and the instructions are top notch (if you bother to read them). You can download the free pattern HERE.
Prairie Skies Shawl
Anyone else entering their shawl season of life? I just finished the Prairie Skis Shawl by Caitlin Hunter as my first shawl and really enjoyed it. It’s warm and I don’t feel like an old lady whatsoever when I wear it!
The pattern is $6 and you can purchase it on Ravelry HERE
The Traveler Shawl
I think this will be my next project! I’m enjoying shawls and this looks both cozy and modern. The pattern is $8.00 and you can purchase it HERE.