Easy Crochet Children's Mittens: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Updated at: 18/05/2025

Keeping little hands warm during chilly adventures just got easier! This tutorial will guide you through the simple and satisfying process of crocheting adorable mittens perfectly sized for children. Forget expensive store-bought options; with just a few basic crochet stitches and a little yarn, you can create a pair of charming mittens that are as unique as the child who will wear them. Choose your favourite colours, add playful embellishments, and watch your creativity blossom into a practical and heartwarming handmade gift.

These easy-to-follow instructions are perfect for beginners, requiring only a basic understanding of crochet fundamentals. From casting on to the final finishing touches, each step is explained clearly and concisely with helpful images to ensure a smooth and enjoyable crafting experience. Ready to get started on your little one's new favourite winter accessory? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • crochet hook
  • yarn
  • stitch marker (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise young children when they are wearing mittens, especially near hazards like fire or sharp objects.
  • Use yarn and hook sizes appropriate for the age of the child to avoid creating mittens that are too small (choking hazard) or too large (tripping hazard).
  • Ensure there are no loose yarn ends or unfinished stitches that a child could pull off and potentially choke on. Securely fasten all ends.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Create the Mitten Base

    • Make a magic circle.
    • 5 single crochets into the magic circle. Close the circle.
    • 2 single crochets in each stitch around. Place a stitch marker in the first stitch.
    • *2 single crochets in one stitch, 1 single crochet in the next stitch*. Repeat from * to * around.
    Round 3: *2 single crochets in one stitch, 1 single crochet in the next stitch*. Repeat from * to * around.Round 3: *2 single crochets in one stitch, 1 single crochet in the next stitch*. Repeat from * to * around.Round 3: *2 single crochets in one stitch, 1 single crochet in the next stitch*. Repeat from * to * around.Round 3: *2 single crochets in one stitch, 1 single crochet in the next stitch*. Repeat from * to * around.
    Create the Mitten Base
    • Repeat Round 3.
    • 1 single crochet in each stitch around. (Add 2 extra rounds if needed for desired length)
    Rounds 6-17: 1 single crochet in each stitch around. (Add 2 extra rounds if needed for desired length)Rounds 6-17: 1 single crochet in each stitch around. (Add 2 extra rounds if needed for desired length)
    Create the Mitten Base

  2. Form the Thumb Hole

    • 1 single crochet, chain 6, skip 6 stitches, 1 single crochet in the next stitch. Continue with single crochets around.

  3. Complete the Mitten Body

    • 1 single crochet in each stitch, including the chain 6.
    • 1 single crochet in each stitch around (change colors as desired)
    Rounds 20-26: 1 single crochet in each stitch around (change colors as desired)
    Complete the Mitten Body

  4. Finish the Mitten Body

    • Fasten off the main body with a slip stitch.
    Fasten off the main body with a slip stitch.
    Finish the Mitten Body

  5. Create the Thumb

    • Attach yarn to thumb hole, chain 1. Round 1: 12 single crochets. Rounds 2-6: 1 single crochet in each stitch.
    • 6 sets of 2 single crochets worked together. Fasten off, weave in ends.
    Round 7 (Thumb): 6 sets of 2 single crochets worked together. Fasten off, weave in ends.Round 7 (Thumb): 6 sets of 2 single crochets worked together. Fasten off, weave in ends.
    Create the Thumb

Read more: DIY Stretchy Fingerless Gloves: Easy Sewing Tutorial

Tips

  • Use a stitch marker to keep track of rounds.
  • Keep notes of round numbers to avoid confusion.
  • Adjust the number of rounds to achieve your desired mitten size.
  • Change colors as desired to create stripes.
  • If your thumb is twisted, adjust the stitches to create a flat thumb.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Tension

Reason: Uneven tension throughout the mitten creates a misshapen and less comfortable final product. This often happens when crocheting too tightly or loosely, or changing tension mid-row.
Solution: Practice maintaining a consistent tension by using a tension square and adjusting your grip as needed.

2. Incorrectly Decreasing Stitches

Reason: Decreasing stitches incorrectly, such as decreasing too many or too few stitches in a round, will lead to a mitten that is too small or too large at the thumb or fingers.
Solution: Carefully count your stitches before and after each decrease round to ensure you are following the pattern correctly.

FAQs

What type of yarn is best for crocheting children's mittens?
A soft, washable yarn like acrylic or a blend of wool and acrylic is ideal for children's mittens. Avoid anything scratchy or that could irritate sensitive skin. Look for a yarn weight that's suitable for your chosen hook size (usually a light to medium weight).