Free Pattern: Frosted Crystal Snow Drops Mittens

Free Pattern: Frosted Crystal Snow Drops Mittens

Introduction

Embrace the enchanting beauty of winter with these Frosted Crystal Snow Drops Mittens. Featuring intricate beadwork that mimics the delicate sparkle of frost-kissed snowflakes, these mittens are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your winter wardrobe. Whether you're a seasoned knitter or a beginner, this pattern will guide you step-by-step to create your own pair of stunning mittens.

Materials Needed

• Yarn: DK weight, 100% merino wool, 150 yards
• Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) double-pointed needles
• Gauge: 22 stitches and 30 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch
• Beads: Glass beads for embellishment (optional but recommended)
• Stitch markers: To mark the beginning of rounds and thumb gusset
• Tapestry needle: For weaving in ends

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cast On: Cast on 40 stitches using your DK weight merino wool. Distribute the stitches evenly across 4 double-pointed needles, with 10 stitches on each needle. Join to work in the round, ensuring that the stitches are not twisted.
2. Ribbing: Work in k2, p2 ribbing for 2 inches. This creates a snug cuff for your mittens.
3. Stockinette Stitch: Switch to stockinette stitch (knit all stitches) and continue for 3 inches. This will form the main body of the mittens.
4. Begin Beadwork: Start your beadwork by following this sequence: *k2, place bead, k8*. Repeat this pattern around the entire round. This will create a beautiful design that resembles snowflakes.
5. Continue Beadwork: Continue in stockinette stitch, placing beads every 10 stitches on every 4th round for an additional 2 inches. This adds depth and elegance to your mittens.
6. Thumb Gusset: On needle 1, knit 1 stitch, make 1 stitch (m1), knit 1 stitch, make 1 stitch (m1), knit 1 stitch. You should now have 3 additional stitches. Knit 3 rounds evenly without any increases.
7. Increase for Thumb: Repeat the increase round every 4th round until you have 9 stitches between your stitch markers. Once you have 9 stitches, place these stitches on a holder.
8. Close the Gap: Cast on 1 stitch over the gap created by the thumb gusset and continue knitting in the round for 2 inches.
9. Begin Decreases: For the main body of the mitten, start decreasing by following this pattern: *k2tog, k8*. Repeat this around the entire round. Then, knit 1 round evenly without decreases.
10. Continue Decreasing: Continue decreasing in this manner: *k2tog, k7*, then *k2tog, k6*, and so on, until you have 8 stitches remaining on your needles.
11. Finish Off: Break the yarn, thread it through the remaining stitches, and pull tight to close the top of the mitten.
12. Thumb: For the thumb, return the 9 stitches from the holder to your needles, and pick up 3 stitches at the gap. Knit in the round for 1 inch.
13. Thumb Decreases: Begin decreasing for the thumb by knitting *k2tog* around until you have 4 stitches remaining. Break the yarn, thread it through the remaining stitches, and pull tight to finish the thumb.
14. Weave in Ends: Finally, use a tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends, ensuring a neat finish.

Congratulations! You have successfully created your own pair of Frosted Crystal Snow Drops Mittens. Enjoy the warmth and elegance they bring to your winter wardrobe!