Playground
It is amazing how much we can learn as we make this small piece of knitted fabric. I tried to fill this part of the knitalong with as many tips and tricks as I possibly could.
I hope that playing with these different ways to change and improve the cuff and the thumb gusset will help you to add a few helpful tools to your knitting skillset.
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Hi Maryna! I am so glad I decided to become a club member! Thank you for what you do.
So, I ended up changing my yarn choice altogether. Instead of the Galway sport yarn, I'm knitting my mittens with Cascade 220 Superwash yarn. I used the Tubular Cast On method, which took me about 5 times to get it right, but it was worth it in the end. I also want to tell you that the tip you gave for avoiding ladders was worth the price of admission! I'm using DPNs more and more and your tip makes all the difference. As for the thumb gusset shaping, I went with the classic shaping but I prefer the M1R, M1L method. I can't wait for the next set of instructions!!
Now for a question: I would like to use the tubular cast on method to knit adult sized hats. Thanks to your mini course "favorite knitting methods," I can now quickly identify where I left off while casting on. However, I find I also lose track of my cast on count. As you know, most adult sized hats can be anywhere from 80 to 100+ stitches depending on the yarn size. Is there an easy way count my tubular cast on stitches (which go all wonky on the needles/cable) to ensure I have the right starting count? I'm sure you have a trick; would you share it, please?
Thank you.
Karin in Colorado
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Hi Karin! What a beautiful mitten you are making! The choice of yarn is perfect, and I am absolutely thrilled to know that you find my little tips helpful. Yay!
As to counting stitches when we use the tubular cast-on method, I agree - it can be a pain, especially when stitches move to the cable of a circular needle.
There are two ways to make it easier. The first one is to cast on stitches in a quiet setting when nothing and no one disturbs you, and count each stitch out loud as you cast it on. This is the most effective way avoid re-counting stitches.
The other way is to cast on stitches, using a long single-pointed needle. Because this issue gets much worse when the stitches move to a cable of a circular needle, it is best to use a needle without a cable. Single-pointed needle. fits the bill, and it can hold enough stitches for an adult hat.
Because we work the first two setup rows back and forth, it is okey that we can't spread stitches on a cable needle right away. When you work the first setup row, take a circular needle in your right hand, and by the end of this row, the single-pointed needle will be empty.
Have fun playing with stitches!
Hugs,
Maryna
I am liking how my mitten is turning out! I had originally chosen a grey for color C, but thought I would get creative and have fun with the pumpkin color instead. It looks like it will be a nifty set of mittens for the cold fall days we have here in Canada.
I chose option 2 for the shaping of my thumb gusset. I liked the look of that. However, I notice that on my increase rows there is a gap/hole in between my increase stitches. It looks kind of pretty and I don't mind it, but am wondering what I may have done to cause that.
Anyway, I am having fun and you have a calm and clear way of teaching. I appreciate how talented you are!
Sigrid
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I like the colors!
Your mittens are so cute! The colour combination is unexpected, but that's what makes it so interesting. Great thinking!
As to the holes, as much as I can tell by zooming in on your photo, you did everything right. It might be an issue with tension. If you like this slightly lacy effect, that's great. Otherwise, you can probably even out this look by blocking the mitten.
Happy knitting!
I like my mitten too. 🙂 Of course I hadn't thought of what blocking might do to help with the gaps. Thank you for the suggestion. I am excited to see what else we will learn!
Happy Christmas to all!
Happy Christmas to you too! 🎄✨🧶
This is my first time joining an on-line knitting class. Maryna, your method of video instruction is so clear and friendly. I used my "homework" time to start knitting the second mitten. I tried to go by memory, and that was not a good choice! I chose to work in short interchangeable needles size 8 on a 22" cord using the magic loop method. My yarn was Patons Astra 100% acrylic (Light 3) in Aran, Black and Cardinal. So the size is a bit large to really be an Adult Small, but I don't like a tight mitten anyway. If I don't find them super warm I can always add a lining in brushed cotton fabric as I have done on woolen mitts I have made which I found itchy. Just an idea: what about adding one or two black buttons on the top of each mitten to mimic the monkey?!  (right now I'm trying to figure out how to download a photo to go along with this ...)   Â
Hi Karen,
I am so glad you like following this knitalong with me. Thank you for giving it a go!
It is a wonderful idea to add "eyes" to each mitten. It will make the mittens so much cuter.
I can't wait to see a photo of your mittens. To unload it, click the "Choose file" button at the bottom of the "reply" field. Once you find the photo you'd like to share in the folders of your device, click "open", and the file will be attached to your message once you submit your reply.
First mitten: tubular CO, classic thumb shaping
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It's a beauty! I love how the variegation shows up. Such a subtle change. Love it!
A finished pair all done and dusted! I have enjoyed this KAL very much. Thank you Maryna.
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Yay! They are beauties 🙂 I am so glad you enjoyed making this pair, Karianne!