When winter winds blow snow across the fields and vibrant flowers
have long since faded, the ghosts of chrysanthemums remind us
of the coming spring. These mittens are a stylized interpretation
of the chrysanthemum, which even on a chilly day will warm your
hands with its delicate bloom.
Using traditional Norwegian shaping and construction technique,
the Chrysanthemums mittens’ stranded colourwork is knit
at a tight gauge to keep your hands warm and protected from the
wind.
The cuff’s design reflects the pleats and lace of
a Victorian dress sleeve, while the smooth ply of Louet Gems
in cream and pewter adds an elegant touch.
model: Heather
Desserud photos: Melissa
Flynn and Heather Desserud
SIZE
One
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Hand circumference: 8 inches
Length: 10.5 inches
Recommended needle size [always use a needle
size that gives you the gauge
listed below -- every knitter's
gauge is unique] 1
set of 5 US #1/2.25 mm double-point needles OR 1
long US #1/2.25 mm circular needle for
magic loop method OR 2
short US #1/2.25 mm circular needles
for two-circulars method
Notions Yarn
needle scrap pieces of yarn in a contrasting color,
or stitch holder
GAUGE
40 sts/40 rounds = 4 inches
in stranded stockinette stitch
PATTERN NOTES [Knitty's list of standard abbreviations and techniques can be found here.]
Left vs Right hand: There are two charts, one for the left and
one for the right hand. The cuffs and
backs of the hands are the same – the
two hands differ in placement of the
thumb on the palm. Use the appropriate
chart for the appropriate hand.
M1: make 1 stitch by inserting left needle,
from front to back, under strand of yarn running between last
stitch on left needle and first stitch on right needle. Knit
this stitch through the back loop for 1 increased stitch.
Instructions for the Cable Cast On can be found here
Charts The charts for this pattern are very large.
Each fits on a letter-sized page.
Click below and print each resulting
page.
Make 1 left and 1 right mitten. See Pattern Notes for further
information.
Hem:
Cast on 74 stitches in MC and divide
across needles as you prefer. Join
to work in the round, being careful
not to twist.
Work picot edge as follows:
K 4 rounds.
Round 5: [YO, K2tog] around.
K 4 rounds.
Round 10: Fold the hem so that the cast-on edge is lined up
with your needles. K together 1 stitch from your needles and
1 stitch from the cast-on edge all the way around.
Cuff
Begin working Cuff Chart (right or left
as appropriate) using MC and CC. Work
until Cuff Chart is complete.
Body of Mitten
Begin working Main Chart. The thumb gusset
will take shape as you proceed with the
increases.
When you reach the thumb line (round 14 of the Main Chart),
slip the 16 thumb sts as indicated on the chart onto scrap piece
of yarn or stitch holder (without working them), and cast on
11 sts over the gap using cable cast-on method.
Continue working Main Chart to final round, including decreases.
Break off yarn, and using tapestry needle,
thread through the remaining 6 sts and
pull tight. Thread this yarn down through top of mitten to the
inside.
Thumb
Return the 16 held thumb sts to one needle.
Pick up and k 12 sts over cast-on
sts, then 1 st on either side of thumb
hole. Divide on needles as you prefer
and work Thumb Chart starting with
palm facing up (front side of thumb). 30
sts.
Finish thumb in same manner as mitten
tip by pulling yarn through the remaining sts and weaving ends
inside. Repeat for second mitten.
FINISHING
Weave in ends and block lightly.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
Heather (also known as strikkehedda) is
a writer and communications consultant
by day, but by night she designs mittens
for the frigid Ottawa winters. When not
knitting or working, Heather spends her time cycling, playing her
purple violin, and spoiling her dog, Percy, who has his own ideas
about the best use of yarn.
