I like to knit and I like to read so I pick up knitting magazines all the time. In the Winter 2001 issue of Family Circle Easy Knitting there was this great idea for fingerless mitts. If you are like me, you spend a lot of time at the computer and your hands get cold. They are also good for you cold house people who spend a lot of time using your hands reading, beading, knitting, etc. These mitts work great! These aren't just for women, I know there are a lot of guys out there that would appreciate a pair. You might have to make them bigger, just increase the width and length. Once you make a set you will know what to do to make them fit you.

I am going to share my own instructions for the pattern, because I changed it enough that I don't think I am ripping anyone off. If you feel guilty about it, go out and buy the magazine, otherwise - enjoy!

Materials:

• 1 skein of a washable wool or any acrylic yarn that is worsted weight. I used Lionbrand Woolease 2.5oz/70gram and it makes enough for 3 mitts with some extra yarn left-over.
• a set of double point needles (4 or 5) size 6/4mm
• stitch markers
• tapestry needle for tucking in the tails

For the Cuff: Using a long tail cast on (or your favorite stretchy cast-on method) cast on 40 stitches. I usually cast onto a regular long straight needle, then divide the stitches evenly over the double points. Place a marker, and join by working K2 P2 ribbing around for 8 rounds.

For the Arm/Wrist: Knit 20 rounds.

For the Thumb shaping: K2 stitches, increase into the next stitch, place marker (you will have 4 stitches). Knit to the last 3 stitches, place a marker, increase into the next stitch, then K2 stitches (4 stitches total). Knit the next round. Repeat these 2 rows until you have 52 stitches total (6 increase rounds).

Knit 1 stitch, then cast off the rest of the thumb stitches, knit the rest of the round. You should have 36 stitches, just be sure you have an even number.

For the Top: Knit one more round, connecting the sides together over the thumb; you will have a thumb opening there that will pooch out to the side. Now work 8 rounds of K2 P2 ribbing. Cast off. Finish by tucking in the beginning and ending tails.

Of course, email me if you have any questions.