These mittens were made with yarn I spun on my Ashford spinning wheel. I created a 2-ply yarn for comfort and warmth. (Suggestions are given for mill spun yarn for those that don’t spin.)
These were created in the same way our ancestors would have made them. The rugged look is desired so keep that in mind when choosing yarn.
The wool homespun will keep your hands warm, even when wet. (My children always requested wool mittens for outdoor snow play; now my grandchildren do the same. They can play for hours because their hands stay warm. I have found that acrylic yarn has the opposite effect when wet.)
Each mitten will be unique if handspun; this was intentional so try not to overly blend the fleece.
The pattern is in 2 sizes: small/medium and large. If recipient’s hands are very small or very large, simply adjust needle size slightly and shorten or lengthen as needed. Homespun wool tends to mold to the body with wear.
Size 7 US double pointed needles create the 4 stitch/inch gauge in stockinette stitch. 190-200 yards complete a pair.
(See Pioneer Mittens for children if you want matching mittens:)