Checks and Balances

Introducing the Checks and Balances mittens, a delightfully colorful knitting project crafted in three vibrant shades of fingering weight wool. Designed with an easy gauge of 8 stitches to the inch, these mittens are perfect for both beginner and experienced knitters looking to explore colorwork techniques. With a focus on simplicity, this pattern incorporates no more than one or two colors per row, making it an excellent choice for those new to color knitting.

The knitting experience begins with a cozy 2 x 2 knit/purl ribbing for the cuff, providing both stretch and comfort to keep your wrists warm. As the pattern unfolds, you’ll find charming rounds of cheerful checks that create a playful visual effect, showcasing your skills and creativity with each stitch. To finish, the mittens are adorned with a traditional Sámi braid and a decorative tassel attached at the mid-cuff, adding a unique cultural touch to your handmade accessory.

The finished mitten boasts an 8” [20 cm] circumference, making it a delightful fit for a variety of hand sizes. This beautiful mitten pattern is inspired by a historical pair of Sámi mittens I encountered at Stockholm's Nordiska museet, also known as Sweden's Nordic Museum. These mittens were originally collected in 1925 during an expedition to Jukkasjärvi, located at the northern tip of Sweden. The distinctive Sámi knitted pattern featured in this design is widely recognized in the region and is reminiscent of traditional Lule Sámi patterns found in nearby towns.

Whether you're looking to knit a charming gift for a loved one or create a personal statement piece for yourself, the Checks and Balances mittens offer a wonderful opportunity to enhance your knitting skills while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Sámi craftsmanship. Download the free pattern today and start your journey toward creating a stunning pair of mittens that will keep you warm and stylish through the chilly seasons.