The “one-size-fits-nobody” leg warmers from the mall are often made from cheap materials that do not last. What fits a 6′ 3″ tall friend of mine will look a little baggy on my 5′ 2″ legs. What fits me will not fit over her legs.
The answer is to make your own custom leg warmers. If you knit, this pattern is easy. You can insert any stitch pattern into this base and produce any style, color or size leg warmer you like.
This is a great way for beginners to make something they can use besides a scarf. If you do not know how to knit, there are many books and websites that have the information.
These leg warmers are made on two needles. You can use four needles or circular needles if you choose. They take a little practice, but will produce warmers with no seams.
You will need:
- · Yarn
- ·:
You’ll need measurements from your leg. These include:
- · Around the ankle
- · The calf
- · The thigh- if the warmers are to go beyond the knee.
- · The total length, the length from the ankle to the knee and from the knee to the thigh
Step Two:
Obtain your gauge using the size of needles and yarn you select. If your gauge is off, switch to another set of needles or yarn size.
Step Three:
The following directions are given for a generic warmer. You’ll make two, of course. Once you get the hang of making them, you can insert stitch patterns into your work. When you do this, always knit a swatch to check your gauge as it will change. Incorporate this information into your new warmers.
Cast on 46 stitches
Row 1: K1, P1 all the way across
Row 2: K1, P1 all the way across- since you will end on a purl stitch, you’ll then knit all the stitches you purled in the previous row and purl the knit stitches.
This creates ribbing like that used in wristbands and waistbands. You can also use K1, P2 stitches. Just remember to reverse the stitches on the next row.
Step Four:
Work the rows until the piece measures the right length. Cast off loosely. Weave in the ends and sew the seam using your favorite method. You can also crochet the seam closed so it will lie flat. There are dozens of different stitches you can use.
Since yarn and stitches lose their elasticity over time and with wear, you can knit new warmers or incorporate elastic thread. Use a yarn needle and thread the elastic through the back loops. Take care not to stretch it as you sew; this will keep the warmer from being too tight when you wear it. You do not have to thread the entire warmer, just the top and bottom bands.
You can also incorporate the elastic by placing it behind the stitch before you knit it. This will slow your work down, but you will not have to do any additional work.
Note: For a leg warmer with more stretch and springiness, knit all stitches into the back loops of the stitches.
Leg warmers make wonderful gifts any time of the year.
Source: The author of this article has over 40 years of experience in diverse forms of DIY, home improvement and repair, crafting, designing, and building furniture, outdoor projects, RV’ing and more.
