Kuelap Fingerless Mitts by Bethany Hendrickson

Kuelap Fingerless Mitts

Knitting
June 2011
Fingering (14 wpi) ?
36 stitches and 48 rows = 4 inches
in mosaic colorwork pattern (after blocking)
US 1½ - 2.5 mm
150 - 200 yards (137 - 183 m)
Actual measurements—7¼” (18 cm) top circumference, 6¼” (16 cm) length, 6¾” (17 cm) bottom circumference, stretches to fit 6.5”-8.5” (16.5 cm-21.6 cm) circumference at top of palm / base of knuckles
English
This pattern is available as a free Ravelry download

Pattern Inspiration:
These mitts were inspired by my eternal love for all things ancient and Peruvian. The geometric nature of the stitch pattern resembles the swirling walls of the Chachapoyas fortress known as Kuelap. The angora content of the yarn is also a nod to these people of the mist because it makes the mitts feel soft and cloud-like.

Notions: yarn needle for weaving in ends, 2 safety-pin style stitch markers to aid with seaming
Skill Level: Easy (basic stitches, simple shaping & finishing)
Techniques: Two-color longtail cast-on**, knitting, purling, slipping stitches, “make one” increase**, outline stitch bind-off**

Optional modification: seam them all the way instead of leaving a thumbhole for a pair of beautiful cuffs that will extend too-short sleeves during colder months.

** The two-color longtail cast-on, make one increase, and outline stitch bind-off techniques are all explained in the pattern, but knowing how to work the usual longtail cast-on is essential.

Sizing Note: Because the stitch pattern repeat is so large (20 stitches), and the gauge so dense, if attempting to fit a hand larger than 8.5” (21.6 cm) circumference, it’s best to go up a needle size or two (in mm, not US sizes) rather than trying to add stitches. The warmth and structure of the fabric will not be compromised, especially if you use a yarn containing angora, kid mohair, or some other fiber where the yarn has a nice halo—as in the mitts shown.