I had made some felted slippers out of Peace Fleece this winter and had just under one skein of this lovely wool left when I was done. One night I had the inspiration to make some fingerless mitts with it and use a little bit of Peace Fleece in a contrasting color in them as well. Here is the pattern:
You need 1 skein of Peace Fleece (or other worsted weight wool) for the main color (MC) and a small amount of contrasting color (CC). Also size 7 double point needles or long circular and a tapestry needle. My gauge was 8.5 stitches over 2 inches in stockinette stitch in the round.
Cast on 32 stitches of MC. Join, being careful not to twist. Work 2 inches of 2×2 ribbing in the round (knit 2, purl 2) or until desired. Then switch to stockinette stitch and knit another 3 inches or so until it is as long as the web of your thumb. When mitt is the desired length, bind off 4 stitches LOOSELY at the beginning of the next round, then complete that round in stockinette stitch. Cast on 4 stitches (I used the backward loop method) at the beginning of the next round, then finish in stockinette stitch. This whole pattern could also be done completely in 2×2 ribbing for a more snug fit and a more interesting look.
Knit the next two rounds.
Switch to CC and knit 8 rounds or as desired.
Switch back to MC and knit two rounds. Then switch back to 2×2 ribbing for 4 more rounds, or as desired. Bind off loosely. Weave in ends.
Note: I have rather large hands, and I could have bound off 5 stitches (If you do this, remember to cast on 5 instead of 4 in the next round) for the thumb hole. This yarn does have some stretch to it and I was able to pull gently on the opening to make it bigger. For many women 4 stitches would probably be enough.
