Design: I wanted to use a British sheep breed to create a hardwearing mitt that would keep my hands warm when working outdoors, but remain practical. I can use my phone because the thumb is long, but not closed (this also keeps my thumb warm). The mitts can be buttoned back, or cover the hand. It isn’t rocket science, but they work really well: I tested them on a windy hill.

I enjoyed making them. They were pretty quick to knit up and the Three Pools 100g skein is plenty. It takes a lot to get these mitts wet, because they are made from the wool of a hardy Welsh hill sheep. The Torddu Badger Face has a white fleece and black belly (hence the name).

Wash in soapy lukewarm water but don’t agitate too much else they will felt (although this would make them firmer, so maybe that’s a good thing). I will write up a bigger version for bigger hands, too.

Alex Laight (designer behind Laight Night Knits and this pattern)