Tridactyl by Tina Hanly

Tridactyl

Knitting
June 2009
DK (11 wpi) ?
25 stitches and 36 rows = 4 inches
in stockinette
US 4 - 3.5 mm
137 - 274 yards (125 - 251 m)
English
This pattern is available for free.

Other Materials:

  • Cable needle
  • spacer Waste yarn
  • spacer Stitch holder (optional)
  • spacer Stitch markers
  • spacer Yarn needle

From Knitty.com

Tangy

Credit for this idea goes to my husband, who is always coming up with great ideas, but for things that are usually not knittable. These started out destined to be just regular mittens (my first pair, even) with a cool stitch pattern on the back. He suggested that instead of mittens I make them into “Lobster Claw” gloves like we’ve seen at sporting goods stores. The name, Tridactyl, means “three-toed” and seems fitting for the reptilian look that these gloves have.

These odd looking creations provide the warmth of a mitten, with the dexterity of a glove. Thus, getting out your keys, turning radio dials, pulling the break lever on your bike, and even answering your cell phone are all possible while your fingers are kept warm! Amazing!

The stitch pattern is perfect for showing off the multitudes of color in this yarn, but would also look striking in a solid yarn as well. You could play around with some color-work or cables and put some really interesting designs on the back, or leave it plain and use a self-striping yarn.

My husband has already put in his request for a pair and I have a feeling I’ll be making several more for holiday gifts this year. Good thing they knit up fast!