There is something undeniably cozy about the moment you settle in with a hook and a skein of warm yarn, ready to create something that captures the essence of the season. The yarn rests on the table, the hook is in hand, and as you pull the first chain, the project begins to take shape. This adorable crochet mittens applique pattern is the perfect way to channel that cozy energy. Whether you are adding it to a winter blanket or crafting a standalone decoration, these little mittens bring a playful touch to any cold-weather project.
Why This Project Works
While mittens aren’t exactly an “activity” like skiing or ice skating, they are an essential part of enjoying all those cold-weather adventures. This design captures that feeling of bund up for a day outside. The pattern is designed to be versatile; while it serves as a charming square for the Winter Activities Crochet-Along, the applique pieces stand beautifully on their own. You can use them to decorate hats, tote bags, pillows, or even create winter wall décor. The ability to mix and match yarn colors allows for endless customization, making these mittens a delightful stashbuster that brings a smile to any winter-themed collection.
Project Overview
This pattern creates a pair of crochet mitten appliques, featuring a right-hand and a left-hand mitten with a ribbed cuff detail. The mittens are constructed using double crochet for the body and single crochet for the edging and thumb. The design includes a playful assembly option where a chain “string” connects the two mittens, mimicking a classic mitten string. The skill level is accessible for crocheters comfortable with basic stitches and shaping.
Materials
- Yarn (Mitten Body): Red Heart Super Saver Yarn in Cornmeal or Red Heart with Love in Cornsilk (any color you’d like would be great for the mittens!)
- Yarn (Cuff): Red Heart Super Saver in Country Blue
- Crochet Hook: Size H
- Notions: Tapestry Needle
Gauge and Finished Size
Each mitten measures approximately 5 x 5 inches. Gauge is not strictly specified, but maintaining consistent tension will ensure the mittens fit well within your project square.
Abbreviations
The following abbreviations are used in this pattern:
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- dc: double crochet
- dc dec: double crochet decrease
- HDC: half double crochet
- BLO: back loop only
Pattern Notes
The right and left mittens are made similarly, but the thumbs are placed on opposite sides so they look like a proper pair. The instructions are broken down to make the construction easier to follow. You can use the long yarn tails left at the end of each mitten to sew them securely to your base square.
Pattern Instructions
Right Hand Mitten
Body: With yellow yarn, chain 12. DC in 3rd chain from hook and in each chain across. Chain 2, turn. (10 DC)
Row 2: DC in each stitch across. Chain 2, turn. (10 DC)
Row 3: DC decrease over first 2 stitches, DC in next 6 stitches, DC decrease over last 2 stitches. Chain 2, turn. (8 DC)
Row 4: DC in each stitch across. Chain 2, turn. (8 DC)
Row 5: DC decrease over first 2 stitches, DC in next 4 stitches, DC decrease over last 2 stitches. Chain 2, turn. (6 DC)
Row 6: DC in each stitch across. Do not turn. (6 DC)
Edging + Right Thumb: Continuing with the same yarn, SC evenly down the first side of the mitten, working approximately 8 SC along the edge. Now pause to make the thumb.
Thumb: Chain 5. DC in 3rd chain from hook and DC in each of the next 2 chains. Work 2 DC into the same space along the mitten edge where the thumb chain began. Continue with 1 SC in the remaining space along the edge of the mitten. Fasten off.
Ribbed Cuff: Join blue yarn to one corner along the bottom edge of the mitten. Chain 4, SC in 2nd chain from hook and in next 2 chains. Slip stitch into the next 2 spaces along the bottom edge of the mitten. Turn.
Row 2: SC in the back loops only of the 3 SC from the previous row. Chain 1, turn.
Row 3: SC BLO in each of the 3 stitches. Slip stitch into the next 2 spaces along the bottom of the mitten. Turn.
Repeat Rows 2–3 across the entire bottom edge of the mitten, creating a short ribbed cuff. Fasten off blue yarn.
Finish Body: Join yellow yarn at the bottom of the remaining unfinished side of the mitten. SC evenly up the side and join to the first stitch along the top edge. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing the mitten onto the square.
Left Hand Mitten
Body: Make the mitten body exactly the same as the Right Hand Mitten through Row 6. SC evenly down the first side of the mitten. Do not make the thumb on this side.
Cuff: Work the ribbed cuff along the bottom edge following the same instructions above.
Left Thumb: Join yellow yarn at the bottom of the second side of the mitten. This time, we will add the thumb as we work our way up the edge. Work 2 SC + 1 HDC into the first space along the side of the mitten. Chain 6, DC in 3rd chain from hook. DC in next chain. DC decrease over the final 2 chains. Slip stitch back to the side of the mitten to secure the thumb.
Continue SC evenly along the remaining edge of the mitten and join to the first stitch along the top. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Assembly
Arrange the two mittens on your crochet square with the thumbs facing toward one another. Positioning them at slightly different angles gives them a more playful, natural look. Use the long yarn tails to stitch each mitten securely to the square.
For an extra cute detail, use your cuff-colored yarn to crochet a simple chain (about 36 chains) extending from the bottom of each mitten. Arrange the chains in a loose curve between the mittens and stitch them to the square in a few places to create the look of a classic mitten string.
Tips
There are many possibilities for color combinations. Make them match, mix up the cuff colors, or use your favorite winter shades. These appliques are also great for personalizing gifts. If you are looking for more small crochet projects to add to your collection, you might enjoy exploring our easy crochet snowflake patterns or checking out these crochet letter B patterns for monogramming.
FAQs
What yarn is best for these mittens?
The pattern recommends Red Heart Super Saver or Red Heart with Love. These are durable, easy-care acrylics that hold their shape well for appliques.
Can I make just one mitten?
Absolutely. While the pattern creates a pair, you can stop after finishing the Right Hand Mitten instructions to use a single mitten on a hat or bag.
How do I attach the mitten string?
Crochet a chain of about 36 stitches using your cuff color. Lay it in a loose curve between the two mittens and stitch it down at a few points to mimic a natural drape.
What size hook should I use?
A size H crochet hook is recommended to work with the suggested yarn weights for a firm fabric that holds its shape.
Can I use this pattern for amigurumi?
While designed as an applique, the mittens are sturdy. You could stuff them lightly to create a small 3D mitten character, though the pattern is optimized for flat assembly.
Where can I share my finished project?
You can share your makes and progress using the hashtag #WinterActivitiesCAL to connect with other crocheters working on the seasonal series.
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