These cozy crochet mittens feature a convenient pocket specifically designed to hold lip balm, making them perfect for chilly days. They’re a practical accessory for adults, crafted to keep your hands warm while adding a functional touch.

This pattern is suitable for beginners who are familiar with basic stitches and eager to learn about working in the round. You’ll gain skills in the half double crochet (hdc) stitch and how to create a thumb opening.

Why You’ll Love This Mitten

  • Functional design – includes a pocket to hold lip balm securely.
  • Quick project – perfect for gifting or a fun afternoon make.
  • Cozy and warm – bulky yarn ensures your hands stay toasty.
  • Easy customization – change colors or sizes to suit your personal style.

Is This Pattern Good for Beginners?

Absolutely! This pattern utilizes the simple half double crochet stitch, making it an excellent opportunity to practice your crocheting skills while creating something functional.

Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)

  • ch – chain
  • hdc – half double crochet
  • sl st – slip stitch
  • st(s) – stitch(es)

Size and Gauge

  • Finished Mitten Size: approx. 20 × 8 cm (8 × 4 in) long and wide
  • Gauge: 10 hdc and 12 rows = 10 cm (4 in) in half double crochet.

How to Crochet Mittens (Step by Step)

The main mittens are worked from the bottom up, starting with the cuff.

Cuff

  • With Color A, ch 10.
  • Row 1: hdc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across (9 hdc).
  • Row 2: ch 1, turn. hdc in each st across (9 hdc).
  • Repeat Row 2 until the piece measures 15 cm (6 in) long.
  • Next row: ch 1, turn. Fold in half and sl st across to form a cuff (9 hdc).

Body

  • Round 1: Continuing with hdc, work 9 hdc evenly around the cuff (9 hdc).
  • Round 2: hdc in each st around (9 hdc).
  • Round 3: hdc, increase (2 hdc in next st), repeat around (13 hdc).
  • Rounds 4–8: hdc in each st around (13 hdc).

Thumb Opening

  • Round 9: hdc in the first 4 st, ch 4 (this creates the thumb opening), skip 4 st, hdc in the remaining 5 st (9 hdc, plus ch 4).
  • Round 10: hdc in each st and ch around (13 hdc).

Continued Body

  • Rounds 11–15: hdc in each st around (13 hdc).

Finish

  • Round 16: hdc in the first st, decrease (hdc 2 together), repeat around (7 hdc).
  • Finish with a sl st and fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.

Thumb (Make 1)

Join Color A to the base of the thumb opening created in Round 9 of the mitten body.

  1. Round 1: hdc in each of the 4 ch (4 hdc).
  2. Round 2: hdc in each st around (4 hdc).
  3. Round 3: hdc, increase (2 hdc in next st), repeat (6 hdc).
  4. Rounds 4–5: hdc in each st around (6 hdc).
  5. Round 6: hdc in the first st, decrease (hdc 2 together), repeat (4 hdc).
  6. Finish with a sl st and fasten off, leaving a long tail.

Lip Balm Pocket

  1. With Color B, ch 10.
  2. Row 1: hdc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across (9 hdc).
  3. Rows 2–5: ch 1, turn, hdc in each st across.
  4. Finish off, leaving a long tail for sewing.

Assembly & Finishing

  1. Fold the lip balm pocket in half and sew the sides using a tapestry needle.
  2. Attach the pocket to the back of one mitten using the long tail from the pocket (center it about 2.5 cm (1 in) below the cuff).
  3. Attach a small button at the top of the pocket for closure, ensuring the button is aligned with the pocket opening.
  4. Weave in all ends securely.
  5. Block if necessary to shape the mittens.

Beginner Tips for a Neat Mitten

  • Use stitch markers to keep track of rounds, especially during increases.
  • Count your stitches after each round to avoid losing your place.
  • Maintain even tension for a neat finish.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

  • My stitches are too tight. – This may happen if you’re gripping the yarn too hard; relax your hold.
  • The piece is curling. – This can occur if the gauge is off; check your swatch size and adjust your hook if needed.
  • My thumb opening is too small. – If this happens, you may have skipped too many stitches; just make sure to follow the ch instructions carefully.

How to Care for Your Mittens

Hand wash in cool water and lay flat to dry. Avoid bleach and do not iron to keep your mittens looking fresh.

FAQ

How do I resize my mittens?

To resize, adjust the starting chain in the cuff section, and modify the body rounds as needed to fit your hand size.

Can I use a different yarn weight?

Yes, you can use a different weight yarn, but you may need to adjust your hook size and check your gauge to ensure the mittens fit well.

How long will this project take?

The estimated time is about 3.5 hours, including all sections.

Looking for more ideas? Check out our collection of lovely blankets.

Crochet Mittens With Lip Balm Pocket (The Balm Mitt)

Image shown for inspiration — your finished result may vary slightly.