The Timberline Traverse Fingerless Mitts: A Nordic-Inspired Cable Knit Pattern

Wrap your hands in the cozy embrace of the forest with these Nordic-inspired fingerless mitts. Featuring a stunning braided cable that winds like a mountain trail, this pattern is the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern style. Knitted in a rich, heathered evergreen, these mitts are as beautiful as they are functional—ideal for chilly mornings, crisp autumn walks, or adding a touch of handmade warmth to your winter wardrobe.

Whether you're a seasoned knitter looking for a quick weekend project or a confident beginner ready to tackle your first cable, this pattern is designed to guide you every step of the way. Let's dive in and create something truly special.

Materials Needed

Before we begin, gather the following supplies. Having everything ready will make your knitting experience smooth and enjoyable.

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (e.g., Lion Brand Wool-Ease in "Heather Forest") – 150 yards. The heathered green adds depth and a rustic, Nordic feel, but any worsted weight yarn will work beautifully.
• Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) knitting needles (or size needed to obtain gauge). You'll also need a cable needle for the braided cable pattern.
• Notions: Stitch markers, a stitch holder or waste yarn for the thumb, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and scissors.

Gauge: 20 stitches and 26 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Always check your gauge to ensure a perfect fit!

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pattern is worked in the round, creating a seamless, comfortable fit. Follow along carefully, and you'll have a beautiful pair of mitts in no time.

Size & Abbreviations

Size: Adult Medium (7.5-inch hand circumference)

Abbreviations:

• CO: Cast on
• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• K2tog: Knit two together (decrease)
• SSK: Slip, slip, knit (decrease)
• C4F: Slip 2 stitches to cable needle, hold in front, knit 2, knit 2 from cable needle
• C4B: Slip 2 stitches to cable needle, hold in back, knit 2, knit 2 from cable needle
• PM: Place marker
• RM: Remove marker
• M1: Make one (increase) – pick up the bar between stitches and knit through the back loop

Right Mitt

Cast On & Ribbing:

CO 40 stitches. Join in the round, being careful not to twist your stitches. Place a marker to indicate the beginning of the round.

Rounds 1-10: *K2, P2* repeat to end of round. This creates the classic 2x2 ribbed cuff.

Cuff Body (Cable Pattern):

Now we'll begin the beautiful braided cable. Follow these rounds carefully:

• Round 11: K all stitches.
• Round 12: K all stitches.
• Round 13: *C4F, K4* repeat 5 times (ends with K4).
• Round 14: K all stitches.
• Round 15: K all stitches.
• Round 16: K all stitches.
• Round 17: *K4, C4B* repeat 5 times (ends with K4).
• Round 18: K all stitches.
• Round 19: K all stitches.
• Round 20: K all stitches.

Repeat Rounds 13-20 two more times (for a total of 3 cable crossings). This creates the winding, trail-like texture.

Thumb Gusset:

Now we'll shape the thumb opening. The gusset increases gradually to accommodate your thumb.

• Round 1: K20, PM, M1, K1, M1, PM, K19. (42 stitches)
• Round 2: K all stitches.
• Round 3: K20, M1, K3, M1, K19. (44 stitches)
• Round 4: K all stitches.
• Round 5: K20, M1, K5, M1, K19. (46 stitches)
• Round 6: K all stitches.
• Round 7: K20, M1, K7, M1, K19. (48 stitches)
• Round 8: K all stitches.
• Round 9: K20, M1, K9, M1, K19. (50 stitches)
• Round 10: K all stitches.
• Round 11: K20, M1, K11, M1, K19. (52 stitches)
• Round 12: K all stitches.

Separate Thumb:

Round 13: K20, remove marker, place next 13 stitches on a stitch holder or waste yarn, remove marker, K19. (39 stitches remain on your needles)

Hand:

Continue in stockinette (knit every round) for 2 inches, or until the mitt reaches the base of your fingers.

Finger Edging:

Rounds 1-6: *K2, P2* repeat to end of round.

Bind off loosely in pattern. This gives a neat, stretchy edge that fits comfortably over your fingers.

Thumb:

Transfer the 13 stitches from the holder to your needles. Pick up and knit 2 stitches from the gap where the thumb meets the hand. (15 stitches total)

Knit in the round for 1 inch.

Rounds 1-3: *K2, P2* repeat to end of round.

Bind off loosely in pattern.

Left Mitt

Work the same as the Right Mitt, but mirror the thumb gusset placement. Place the gusset after the first 19 stitches: K19, PM, M1, K1, M1, PM, K20. All other instructions remain the same. This ensures your thumbs are on the correct sides for each hand.

Finishing

Weave in all ends with your tapestry needle. Block gently to even out the cables and give your mitts a polished, professional look. Lay them flat to dry.

Congratulations! You've just created a beautiful pair of Timberline Traverse Fingerless Mitts. These make wonderful gifts for loved ones or a cozy treat for yourself. The rich, heathered green and intricate cable pattern are sure to turn heads and spark conversations about your handmade craftsmanship.

Happy knitting, and may your trails always be warm!