Mittens and the wonder of wool

Last week in Kent in turned very cold so it was time for the full DK mittens. I wear 4ply fingerless mitts a lot in winter even when out for a walk and find they keep my hands comfortable most of the time. But when the temperature drops I turn to handknit gloves or mittens.

 

Mittens from my Birdie cloche and mitten set using DK yarn.
Find the pattern on Ravelry and Payhip

Pure wool DK mittens, especially these from my Birdie pattern (they’re named after a great aunt), are increasingly my favourites. I have seen plenty of advice saying mittens are the best choice for warmth if dexterity isn’t a priority and my experience agrees.

According to at least one active wear website, mittens are warmer because your fingers share body heat and there is less surface area on a mitten than a glove. But I don’t need high-tech fabric to help keep my fingers cosy because there is wool!

The amazing temperature controlling properties of pure wool, along with my fingers snuggling together for warmth, means cosy hands even in last week’s chill. Plus, I can fit a pair of 4ply fingerless mitts under this pair if it gets even colder.

Funnily enough I have another Birdie set on the go already in some lovely Bluefaced Leicester from West Yorkshire Spinners. The hat is done and when I get a chance, in between design deadlines, I am ready to start the mittens.