Wilde Schwäne
These beautiful mittens are lovingly knitted for my dear friend and talented photographer, Annika. One of her favorite fairy tales, "[The Wild Swans][1]" ("Die wilden Schwäne" in German) by Hans Christian Andersen, inspired this unique design. In this enchanting fairy tale, a brave princess must help her brothers, who have been transformed into swans. To free them, she embarks on a challenging quest to knit shirts made from nettles.
To symbolize this heartfelt story, the mittens feature a stunning nettle motif on the back of the hand. Using soft wool is a much safer alternative to the actual nettles, allowing you to wear these mittens with comfort and style. The design intricately showcases the beauty of nature while weaving in the essence of the fairy tale.
This knitting pattern employs the roositud inlay method to work the nettle motif, offering a delightful challenge for those looking to expand their skills. Don't worry if you're unfamiliar with this technique; I've provided detailed instructions in the pattern. Additionally, I've created a helpful [video][2] tutorial and even had the pattern test knitted to ensure clarity and ease of use. The nettle motif is provided as a clear colourwork chart, making it accessible for knitting enthusiasts.
Despite the German title, rest assured that the entire pattern is written in English, making it perfect for a wide audience of knitters.
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
Finished Measurements: Available in Women’s sizes S, M, and L (6, 7, and 8 inches / 15, 18, and 20 cm hand circumference), making them a perfect gift for loved ones or a lovely treat for yourself!
Yarn Requirements: Approximately 133 yards (120m) of fingering weight yarn for the Main Colour and an additional 26 yards (24m) for the contrasting colour.
Embrace the magic of knitting and the beauty of storytelling with these enchanting mittens. Perfect for keeping warm during chilly winter days, they also make a thoughtful gift for anyone who appreciates the elegance of fairy tales and the art of handcrafted items. Get started on your knitting adventure today!
