Crochet a Pair of Wrist Warmers (aka Fingerless Mittens)

Made with multi-colored worsted yarn

Call them wrist warmers, fingerless gloves, fingerless mittens, whatever -- these are easy to make and very practical -- perfect for Southern climates, for driving... or you could put them on over thin knit gloves for an extra layer of warmth!  I like to wear them when I am going to be getting in and out of the car and going in and out of stores and need a bit of warmth but also need to be able to use my fingers.














Here are a few places online with directions for different versions:

• Fairly basic pattern  A good place to start.
• Fingerless mittens contrasting edging  This one uses single crochet and features a blanket stitch edging.  Going to have to try this soon.
• Wrist Warmers with button accents.  More work (to add the buttons) but very cute.

The version I've been making is very simple and uses a half-double crochet stitch to create a ribbed effect.

Here are the directions to make the warmers pictured:

[Adapted slightly from The Chicks with Sticks Guide to Crochet.  You can probably find this title in your local library or purchase it online.  I highly recommend it.]

You'll need:

• worsted weight or similar yarn (uses less than one ball or skein, approx 100 yards or less)
• Size H crochet hook
• tapestry needle (for finishing)

Instructions:

Chain 30.
Row 1: Turn and work 1 half-double crochet in third chain from hook and in each chain across.
Row 2: Chain 1 and turn.  Work 1 half-double crochet in back loops only. 
Repeat Row 2 until piece measures about 6" across (the short way).  Fasten off and leave 12" tail.

[I usually count my stitches every other row or so just to make sure that I am staying consistent.  If you start with 29 half-double crochets you want to keep doing 29 or your warmers will be kinda crooked.  But a little bit of crooked doesn't matter too much because when you sew the seam you can kinda straighten it all out a bit.]

Worsted variegated yarn, worn over knit gloves.

Fold the piece in half joining the beginning row and ending row edges. (You will be folding the piece along the longer side, if that makes sense!)  Using the tail sew a seam using mattress stitch, 4" up from the bottom and 1" down from the top, leaving approx. 2" opening for thumb.  Fasten off and weave in both ends.

NOTE:  After you get comfortable with the pattern you can adjust the size based on the yarn you are using and whether you are making these for an adult or child.  For ex. with bulkier yarn (and larger hook) you may want to do only 26 chains at the beginning.  Also for smaller hands or stretchier yarn (the bamboo for example) you may want to make it slightly less than 6" across.  Experiment and see what works for you!

Make a few of these for yourself or for gifts.  We'd love to see what you come up with!

Bamboo yarn -- soft and stretchy!