Creating your own mittens using crochet or knitting is a great project to undertake as the weather starts to get colder. However, achieving the perfect fit can be a daunting task. Adding a thumb or individual fingers takes careful planning and measuring to ensure each finger space is correct.
In this guide, learn the best way to take measurements for your mittens and gloves. Accurate sizing will ensure your handcrafted creations are not only stylish but also fit snugly.
Unveiling the World of Handcrafted Warmth
We’ve been making mittens and gloves for hundreds of years, with some cultures using them as part of their traditional dress. Creating your own crochet mittens and gloves can be a delightful adventure, resulting in a beautiful, functional finished item. However, the journey begins with understanding how to size them correctly. Once you’ve learned the tips and tricks of creating perfect mittens and gloves there will be no stopping you on your crafting adventures.
Measuring Your Hands for Perfect Fit
You may think choosing your mitten or glove pattern is the most important part of your project but you’d be wrong. The most important thing you will do is make sure your measurements are accurate. There are a few essential measurements you need to take so get your measuring tape ready!
- Hand circumference – Take this measurement by placing your tape around your palm, just below your knuckles and excluding your thumb.
- Hand Length – Take this measurement by placing your tape at the tip of your longest finger and taking it to the bend of your wrist.
These measurements can help you size just about any basic crochet glove or mitten pattern.
Additional Hand Measurements
Depending on the pattern you have chosen you may need some additional measurements. These tend to be for pattern placement and less about sizing your mittens or gloves.
These measurements might include:
- Hand & Thumb Circumference: This is the same as the hand circumference described above but this time it includes the thumb.
- Edge of Glove to Bottom of your Little Finger
- Edge of Glove to Bottom of Thumb
- Individual Finger Lengths: Measure each finger, from the fingertip to where it attaches to your hand as well as your thumb.
- Thumb Webbing: This is the small area between your thumb and the base of your index finger
- Depth of Thumb (or gusset): This is the width of the base of your thumb, from the bottom of your hand, up to your thumb webbing.
Decoding Hand Sizes for Crochet Mittens and Gloves
When choosing what size to make your pattern there are a few standard mitten and glove sizes to choose from. Once you have measured the intended recipient’s hand you can choose the size that best matches their measurements.
The sizes below will fit hands of all shapes and sizes:
Mitten Sizing Chart:
- Toddler: 4 inches (10 cm) hand circumference
- Child: 5 inches (12.5 cm) hand circumference
- Adult Small: 6 inches (15 cm) hand circumference
- Adult Medium: 7 inches (17.5 cm) hand circumference
- Adult Large: 8 inches (20 cm) hand circumference
Glove Sizing Chart:
- Child: 5 inches (12.5 cm) hand circumference
- Adult Small: 7 inches (17.5 cm) hand circumference
- Adult Medium: 8 inches (20 cm) hand circumference
- Adult Large: 9 inches (22.5 cm) hand circumference
What If I Can’t Take Any Measurements?
If you plan to create mittens or gloves as a gift, you might not be able to take any measurements before starting your project. This will mean you need to estimate the size you are going to make, some general sizes fit most people. These are:
- Adult men will usually fit inside the Large to Extra Large sizes.
- Adult women typically fit best in the Medium to Large sizes.
- It may be harder to estimate children and teen sizes given how fast children grow. It is better to estimate a size too big than too small in this instance.
Adding Style and Personality
Once you have mastered sizing your mittens it’s time to focus on adding some style and personality to your mittens and gloves. Check out our suggestions below:
- Get colorful – There is no need for handmade mittens and gloves to be neutral. Embrace the variety in your yarn stash, pull out that yarn you’ve been wanting to use forever, and give it a new life. Create accessories that add the dark, damp months a pop of color. They will put a smile on your face every time you look at your hands.
- Stitch Patterns for Texture and Warmth – The beauty of crochet and knitting lies in how versatile it is – mittens and gloves are no exception. Different stitch patterns will add texture and warmth to your projects. Experiment with cable stitches, popcorns, or simple ribbing to test out which offer extra warmth and a stylish look.
- Personalized Embellishments – There are multiple ways to bring a personalized finishing touch to your mittens or gloves. Why not add button detailing down the side, a crochet flower or a pretty bow?
Tips for the Perfect Fit
As well as double-checking your measurements, we have a few tips to help make sure your mittens and gloves fit perfectly.
- Yarn Stretch: Opt for yarns with a bit of stretch, like wool or a wool blend. These yarns will make snugly fitting mittens. Remember that wool will felt, but the result will be sturdy, warm mittens or gloves.
- Try-On as You Go: Create a small section of your project and try it on to check the fit. This means you can make any adjustments there and then, ensuring a perfect fit.
- Account for Ease: While measuring, consider adding a little extra to your number for comfort. Mittens and gloves that are too tight can be uncomfortable to wear, while big mittens may move around and not provide enough warmth.
Where to Find Mitten & Glove Patterns
Online platforms, such as Etsy and Ravelry, offer a massive range of mitten and glove patterns for every skill. You can also find lots of free patterns on our website.
As winter rages outside, there’s something incredibly satisfying about creating items that will keep you warm on chilly days. There’s nothing better than wrapping your hands up in a pair of cozy mittens or gloves that you’ve crafted with care.
So, what are you waiting for? Go grab a tape measure, select your favorite yarn, and start today!
FAQ
What is the difference between glove and mitten sizes?
Glove sizes are determined by the hand’s circumference and length, allowing for individual finger movement. Mitten sizes are generally based on hand circumference and length without the need to accommodate individual fingers.
How do I determine my glove or mitten size?
Measure the circumference of your hand around the widest part (excluding the thumb). Then take the length from the tip of the middle finger to the base of the hand. Use these measurements against a sizing chart to determine your size.
Are glove and mitten sizes the same for men and women?
No, glove and mitten sizes can differ between men and women. Women’s sizes tend to be smaller and narrower, while men’s sizes are larger and wider.
Can I use the same size chart for crochet and knitted gloves?
Yes, but be mindful of the yarn’s stretch and the stitch’s tension, as they can affect the final size. It might be helpful to adjust based on the specific characteristics of your yarn and technique.
What is the average size for adult gloves and mittens?
The average size for adult gloves and mittens corresponds to a hand circumference of 7-8” for women and 9-10” for men.
Can I adjust the size of a crochet glove or mitten after it’s finished?
You can make minor adjustments by blocking or stretching the fabric. However, significant size changes are challenging without altering the pattern or redoing the work.
What is the best way to measure for finger length in gloves and mittens?
For gloves, measure from the tip of each finger to the base of the finger. For mittens, use the longest finger’s measurement as a guide for the mitten length.