Finnish Fingerless Mitts

Course Description:

Create one of a pair of fingerless mitts in class to learn about tapestry crochet, in one and two colors, worked in the round, and the classic knitting motifs of the handsome 19th-century Finnish Korsnäs sweater. It is said this garment was knitted by young women for their betrothed. It is an unusual pullover as it includes both tapestry crochet and knitting and had geometric motifs as well as (sometimes) depicts dancing men and women.

Techniques Learned: Learn how to work tapestry crochet in one and two colors. Pick up from that edge in knitting. Create a thumb gusset in the knitted section and finish off the mitt with more crochet. The class also includes the traditional technique for a heavily- fringed section to be created and sewn onto the edge of the mitt. Manipulating the yarns in tapestry crochet and stranding techniques will be taught as well as reading a chart.

Length: 6 hours

Level: Intermediate to Advanced (must be proficient in crochet and knitting with dp needles, Magic Loop, or working with two circulars)

Supply List:

  • For Adult Sized pair: 2 oz each of 4 colors of worsted weight yarn (traditional colors are white, red, yellow, and green OR blue. Suggested: Strikkegarn by Rauma or worsted weight.  Must be wool, not superwash.
  • Crochet hook size 6 or G (4.0 mm), one set of dp needles (or two circulars or Magic Loop) US sizes 6 (4.0 mm) Approximate gauge is 20 sts /4 inches or 10 cm in St st; 21 sc/ 4 inches/ 10 cm.
  • Tapestry needle, stitch markers, highlighter tape, or magnetic board for reading the charts.

Homework: None.