Description ~ Swedish Knitting - Ambidextrous Knitting and Swedish Lovika Mittens

This class focuses on knitting a new way. The easiest way into knitting colorwork is to hold one yarn in the left hand (Continental) and another color in the right hand (throwing). Both techniques will be taught in this class, and you will practice which way is new to you. In this class you will make Swedish Lovikka Mittens.

Lovika mittens were created above the Artic Circle in Lovikka Sweden by a young girl named Erika Aittamaa in 1892. They were knit with heavy Swedish wool, then combed to make them soft and fluffy, and then embroidered to make them festive. Because they are knit with one color, Lovikaa Mittens are a great project for beginners, or for learning a new way to knit. You will knit and embroider the mitten in class. These mittens are fun to make and knit up in a flash.

Materials Needed ~ Swedish Knitting - Ambidextrous Knitting and Swedish Lovika Mittens

• US 7 (4.5 mm) DPNs.
• 1 cake of Istex Plötulopi (100% unspun Icelandic roving.
• DK weight yarn for embroidery (Kristin used Rauma Strikkegarn in Blue 151, Gold 131, and Red 128.
• Measuring tape.
• Scissors.
• Tapestry needle.
• Scrap yarn.

Homework ~ Swedish Knitting - Ambidextrous Knitting and Swedish Lovika Mittens

Swatch to get gauge. Gauge 12 stitches and 19 rounds = 4 inches (10 cm). After the mittens are completed, they are lightly felted.