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30 Free Fingerless Gloves Knitting Patterns

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This post will show a roundup of 30 free fingerless gloves knitting patterns.

A fall and winter essential, fingerless gloves and mittens are a must-have for colder weather.

This is the perfect time to protect your hands from the cold while allowing your fingers the freedom still to do many things, like drive, type, and touch your phone screen.

Free Fingerless Gloves Knitting Patterns

30 Free Fingerless Gloves Knitting Patterns

Take a look through this list of easy fingerless mittens, gloves, arm warmers, and wrist warmers, and choose your next project.

Happy Knitting!

Are Fingerless Gloves Easy To Knit?    

This type of mitten is an easy one to knit.

From a basic design with no thumb to more complicated knits with cables, there is a pattern for every skill level in the list.

After all, you don’t want to go out in the chilly air without a pair of these gloves!

My favorite season is autumn; I love the crisp mornings, knitting in the afternoons, and the color change of the trees.

fingerless gloves holding a mug

How Many To Cast On For Fingerless Gloves?  

While the specific number of stitches to cast on for fingerless gloves can vary based on factors such as yarn weight, gauge, and hand size, here are some general estimates to give you a starting point:

  1. Fingering Weight Yarn:
    • Small/Medium Size: 48-56 stitches
    • Large Size: 56-64 stitches
  2. Sport Weight Yarn:
    • Small/Medium Size: 40-48 stitches
    • Large Size: 48-56 stitches
  3. Worsted Weight Yarn:
    • Small/Medium Size: 32-40 stitches
    • Large Size: 40-48 stitches
  4. Bulky Weight Yarn:
    • Small/Medium Size: 24-32 stitches
    • Large Size: 32-40 stitches

These estimates assume a basic stockinette stitch pattern and can serve as a starting point. 

However, for a more accurate number of stitches, you should consider the following:

  • Gauge: Always make a gauge swatch to determine the number of stitches per inch or centimeter in your chosen yarn and stitch pattern. Adjust your cast-on number based on your gauge.
  • Hand Size: Measure the circumference of your hand around the widest part, typically around the knuckles.
  • Pattern Instructions: If you’re following a specific pattern, it should provide you with the recommended cast-on number based on the designer’s gauge and sizing.
  • Thumb Gusset: If your fingerless gloves have a thumb gusset, you may need to cast on additional stitches to accommodate it.
long fingerless gloves knitted

How Much Yarn Do I Need For Fingerless Gloves?  

Estimating the amount of yarn needed for fingerless gloves can be somewhat subjective, as it depends on factors like yarn weight,  stitch pattern, individual gauge, and the size of the gloves.

However, here are some general estimates based on common yarn weights:

Fingering Weight Yarn:

  • Small/Medium Size: 200-300 yards (183-274 meters)
  • Large Size: 300-400 yards (274-366 meters)

Sport Weight Yarn:

  • Small/Medium Size: 150-250 yards (137-229 meters)
  • Large Size: 250-350 yards (229-320 meters)

Worsted Weight Yarn:

  • Small/Medium Size: 100-200 yards (91-183 meters)
  • Large Size: 200-300 yards (183-274 meters)

Bulky Weight Yarn:

  • Small/Medium Size: 80-150 yards (73-137 meters)
  • Large Size: 150-250 yards (137-229 meters)

These estimates assume a basic fingerless glove pattern without complex stitch patterns or extensive cabling. 

What Yarn Is Best For Fingerless Gloves? 

The best yarn for fingerless gloves depends on your preferences, the intended use of the gloves, and the style you want to achieve.

Here are some yarn weights commonly used for fingerless gloves, along with their characteristics:

  1. Fingering Weight:
    • Pros: Creates lightweight and delicate gloves. Ideal for intricate stitch patterns.
    • Cons: May require more stitches and time to complete.
    • Use for: Dressy or lacy gloves, perfect for mild temperatures.
  2. Sport Weight:
    • Pros: Offers a good balance between warmth and drape. Works up faster than fingering weight.
    • Cons: May still be on the lighter side for very cold weather.
    • Use for: Everyday gloves with a bit of warmth, suitable for a variety of temperatures.
  3. Worsted Weight:
    • Pros: Provides more warmth and works up quickly. Great for beginners.
    • Cons: May produce bulkier gloves.
    • Use for: Warm and cozy gloves for cooler weather.
  4. Bulky Weight :
    • Pros: Creates thick and warm gloves. Works up very quickly.
    • Cons: Less suitable for intricate stitch patterns.
    • Use for: Winter gloves where warmth is a priority.
  5. Super Bulky:
    • Pros: Produces very warm and chunky gloves. Extremely quick to knit or crochet.
    • Cons: Limited stitch definition in intricate patterns.
    • Use for: Cold weather gloves for maximum warmth.

Choose a yarn weight based on the desired characteristics of your fingerless gloves and the intended season of use.

Additionally, consider the fiber content of the yarn. 

Natural fibers like wool provide warmth, while blends with acrylic or other synthetics may offer durability and easy care. 

Always check the yarn label for care instructions and gauge recommendations, and don’t forget to make a gauge swatch to ensure your stitches match the pattern and achieve the desired fit.

Outlander celtic cable knit fingerless gloves

How Do You Measure For Fingerless Gloves?    

To measure for fingerless gloves, you’ll need to determine the size of your hand and the length of your fingers.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Measure Hand Circumference:

  • Take a measuring tape and wrap it around the widest part of your hand, typically around the knuckles.
  • Note the measurement in inches or centimeters.

2. Measure Hand Length:

  • Measure from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger.
  • Note the measurement in inches or centimeters.

3. Measure Finger Lengths:

  • Measure each finger individually from the base to the tip.
  • Note the measurement for each finger in inches or centimeters.

4. Consider Wrist Circumference:

  • Measure around your wrist if the gloves will have a cuff that covers part of the wrist.
  • Note the measurement.

5. Check Pattern Instructions:

  • If you’re using a pattern, check for specific sizing instructions. Patterns often provide a range of sizes, and the measurements may be given in the pattern.

6. Account for Stretch:

  • Keep in mind that fingerless gloves are often designed to have a bit of stretch for a snug fit. The pattern may account for this, but if you’re creating your own design, consider adding a bit of ease.

7. Adjust for Yarn and Stitch Pattern:

  • The thickness of your yarn and the stitch pattern can affect the fit. Some stitch patterns may have more or less stretch, so consider how your chosen yarn and pattern may impact the sizing.

8. Create a Gauge Swatch:

  • If you’re following a pattern, the designer may provide a recommended gauge. Make a gauge swatch to ensure your stitches match the pattern, and adjust your needle or hook size if needed.

9. Try-On as You Go:

  • If possible, try on the gloves as you work on them, especially if you’re creating your own pattern. This allows you to make adjustments to ensure a good fit.

By following these steps and considering the specific requirements of your pattern or design, you can create fingerless gloves that fit comfortably and provide the desired coverage for your hands.

What Supplies Do You Need To Knit Fingerless Gloves? 

To knit fingerless gloves, you’ll need several supplies to ensure a successful and enjoyable project. 

First and foremost, you’ll require a pair of appropriately sized knitting needles(straight needles, circular knitting needles dpns), usually in the range of US 4 to US 8, depending on your yarn weight and personal gauge. 

Additionally, select a suitable yarn for your project, considering factors such as fiber content, weight, and color. 

Other essential tools include a tapestry needle/yarn needle for weaving in ends and seaming, a pair of scissors for cutting yarn, and stitch markers if your pattern requires them. 

A measuring tape helps ensure accurate sizing, and having a set of double-pointed needles or a circular needle (for magic loop knitting) is essential, especially if your gloves are worked in the round. 

Finally, access to a pattern that provides instructions on sizing, stitch patterns, and shaping is crucial for a successful knitting experience. 

With these supplies, you’ll be well-equipped to knit a cozy and stylish pair of fingerless gloves.

Cable knit arm warmers

Fingerless Mittens + Arm Warmers Knitting Patterns

Many of my own patterns included in the list have been inspired by the Outlander series, with designs based on the original items.

The patterns included are similar to gloves, fingerless mitts, and arm warmers worn by the main characters, Claire and Brianna (mostly knit in Cascade yarns).

There are many beginner patterns in garter stitch, ribbing, stockinette stitch, and a few intermediate choices too, which feature cable-knit designs.

If you would like to purchase the inexpensive ad-free Outlander Pattern Collection that includes all of the fingerless gloves and arm warmers patterns by Handy Little Me, please take a look in my shop HERE.

More Free Knitting Patterns 

Knitting Lessons

If you are a new knitter and need help with the knitting basics, check out the knitting lessons here – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).

There, you will find step-by-step tutorials for all the different knitting techniques a beginner knitter needs to know. 

Including how to cast on, knit the knit stitch, the purl stitch, the stockinette stitch, the rib stitch, the garter stitch, short rows, the magic loop method, a list of knitting abbreviations, and more. 

And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube. 

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