How do you feel about seaming? Do you approach it with gusto? Avoid it like the plague? Or perhaps you used to seam everything, but haven’t done any sewing up in quite some time? While there’s lots of fun to be had knitting things seamlessly, seaming is a really good skill to have in your back pocket. And today, I’m showing off the perfect project to dip your toes in the water if you want to give seaming a go … we’ve even got a video tutorial to show you how it’s done!

These are the Diagonal Mitts by Karida Collins from MDK Field Guide No. 18: Beginnings … I’ve knitted them up in some Old Maiden Aunt 4ply (just look at those colours, swoons!). These are a really quick and clever little project. While this pair is for me, they’d make a really excellent gift as they’re fast to make … and who doesn’t want warm hands?

These little beauties are a great lesson in what is to be gained when you don’t avoid seaming. Simply knit a flat square (on the bias, for extra interest) and seam together, and you’ve got hand warmers! And the seaming couldn’t be simpler. Just remember, consistency is key! Seaming Diagonal Mitts (YouTube tutorial)

As I mentioned these are a great project for gift knitting, and they also make a lovely project for a newer knitter … the knitting couldn’t be simpler, and I always think learning to knit something you’ll actually use is the way to go! The Diagonal Mitts are one of six beginner-friendly patterns from Karida Collins in MDK Field Guide No. 18: Beginnings. For beginner and more experienced knitters alike, they’re a great project for showing off a special skein of yarn … the garter stitch lets a hand-dyed yarn shine! I love this pair I’ve knitted up in Old Maiden Aunt, and we’ve got some truly delectable shades from Lilith in the online shop! Even better, you will get a few pairs out of one 100g skein. Diagonal Mitts for everyone!

These would also be a really fun project for playing with a gradient or self-striping yarn, like a Zauberball or Zauberball Crazy or even, if you were feeling fancy, some Fab Funky Fibres (perhaps a nice use for any lovely leftovers!). There are so many possibilities!

Want even more tips on seaming? Check out this series of videos on seaming a sweater; this video on sewing together blanket squares; and this tutorial on sewing up a knitted toy! Happy seaming!