Weave in the Tail at the Base of Mitten Thumbs

Learn how to weave in the loose end at the base of a mitten thumb to close the hole left after knitting - a lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Learn how to weave in the loose end at the base of a mitten thumb to close the hole left after knitting - a lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

At the base of your mitten thumb, you will probably have a yarn tail to weave in. When you use a stitch holder to separate and join a thumb, this will leave both a loose end and a hole at the base of the thumb. You can use the yarn tail to duplicate the knitting pattern by sewing it through the stitches with a darning needle. This will allow you to invisibly close the gap, as well as hide the loose end. After weaving in the yarn tails, I always add a small, nearly invisible knot to anchor the loose end inside the glove.

Below you will find both video and written guides to help you learn how to weave in the tail at the mitten thumb base.

Video Guide: How to Weave in the Tail at the Base of Mitten Thumbs

Written Guides: How to Weave in the Tail at the Base of Mitten Thumbs

Step 1: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 1:

Thread the loose end through the eye of a darning needle.

Step 2: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 2:

Pick up the work so you can see the gap at the base of the thumb. Point the thumb away from you and the top of the glove toward you. The hole will appear to be almost diamond-shaped when held in this manner.

Step 3: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 3:

Locate the stitch directly across the gap from where the yarn tail leaves your knitting. Insert the tip of your darning needle upward (toward the thumb tip) and through that stitch.

Step 4: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 4:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch.

Step 5: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 5:

Following the left leg of the next stitch upwards, locate the top of the first stitch to the right of the gap. Begin to trace this stitch with your yarn by inserting the tip of the darning needle under the two legs of the next stitch up.

Step 6: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 6:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch only tightly enough to match the pattern of the work.

Step 7: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 7:

Follow the right leg of the stitch down, toward the hand. Insert your darning needle tip under the loop at the base of the stitch leg. Then, insert the needle tip under the stitch directly on the other side of the thumb gap.

Step 8: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 8:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitches.

Step 9: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 9:

Locate the top of the stitch just above your yarn tail. Trace this stitch with your yarn by inserting the tip of the darning needle under the two legs of the next stitch up.

Step 10: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 10:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitches. The loose end should now be coming from the space just at the tip of the hand-side of the diamond-shaped gap.

Step 11: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 11:

Follow the leg of the stitch at the bottom right of the diamond shape upward, toward the thumb. Insert your darning needle tip under the loop at the base of the stitch leg. Then, insert the needle tip under the stitch directly on the other side of the thumb gap.

Step 12: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 12:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitches.

Step 13: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 13:

Insert your darning needle tip down and through the center of the stitch directly on the other side of the gap. Do not pull the yarn tail through just yet.

Step 14: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 14:

Insert your darning needle tip down and through the center of the stitch located at the left corner of the diamond-shaped gap.

Step 15: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 15:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitches.

Step 16: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 16:

Locate the loop at the bottom corner of the diamond-shape, just below your yarn tail. Insert the tip of the darning needle down and through that loop, then up and under the next stitch leg to the left.

Step 17: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 17:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitches.

Step 18: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 18:

Insert the darning needle tip down and through the center of the stitch just above the yarn tail.

Step 19: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 19:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch and into the inside of the glove.

Step 20: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 20:

Turn the glove inside-out and locate a purl stitch that is near your yarn tail. Insert the darning needle tip under that stitch.

Step 21: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 21:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch.

Step 22: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 22:

Remove the tail from the darning needle. Inspect your yarn tail by untwisting it a bit, near your work. Identify the individual yarn plies and count them. Use the tip of your darning needle to help you split the plies into two equal sections. With the four-ply yarn shown, the plies should be split so there are two on each side. Gently separate the two halves of the yarn with your darning needle by sliding it out toward the end of the tail. Take care not to break the strands by pulling too quickly or roughly.

Step 23: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 23:

Once the tail is split in two, set one half aside and thread the other half through the eye of your darning needle.

Step 24: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 24:

With the darning needle, sew this half of the tail around the stitch that it is coming out from under. Do this by bringing your needle tip under and through the other side of the stitch.

Step 25: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 25:

Remove the tail from the darning needle. Lay the halves of the yarn tail out in opposite directions. One side should point right, the other should point left.

Step 26: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 26:

Tie two small interlocking knots. (See this link for more specific instructions.)  

Step 27: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 27:

Using the sharpest scissors you have available, clip off both halves of the yarn tail, one at a time, as closely as possible to the knot, without cutting the knot itself.

Step 28: How to weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Base Tail, Step 28:

Turn your glove right-side out.

Learn to weave in the loose ends on hand knit mittens in this knitting lesson mini-series with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Return to Mitten Finishing Tips to see how to to weave in your other loose ends.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Ready to try it?

Basic mitten knitting pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

You will weave in the yarn tail at the mitten thumb base in my Simple Mitten Knitting Pattern, which is available here.

Up Next

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

Weave in Yarn Tails on Mitten Fingertips

Learn to weave in the loose ends and finish mitten fingertips in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Learn to weave in the loose ends and finish mitten fingertips in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Learn to weave in the loose ends and finish mitten fingertips in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

After knitting a mitten and taking it off your needles, you will be left with loose ends at the tips of the fingers and thumb. There will also be a small hole near the loose ends. With a darning needle, you can sew the tails into the mitten in a decorative duplicate stitch. Then, you can weave in the yarn tails on your mitten fingertips and anchor them to the inside of the glove.

Below you will find both video and written guides to help you learn how to weave in the yarn tails of knit mitten fingertips.

Video Guide: How to Weave in the Yarn Tails on Mitten Fingertips

Written Guides: How to Weave in the Yarn Tails on Mitten Fingertips

Follow the step-by-step guide below to weave in the loose end at the top of the mitten fingertips. To weave in the thumb tail, you will follow the same basic steps as shown in my “Weave in the Loose End on Hat Tops” lesson, which can be found at this link.

Step 1: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 1:

Thread the loose end through the eye of a darning needle.

Step 2: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 2:

Pick up the work so that the top edge is facing you. You will see an oval-shaped hole at the top of the mitten. Hold the mitten so the yarn tail is on the left side of the oval.

Step 3: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 3:

Directly across the oval from your yarn tail, you will see “<”-shaped stitches. Insert the tip of your darning needle under both legs of the “<”-shaped stitch that is closest to the hole.

Step 4: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 4:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch. Do not pull too tightly; try to match the shape and size of the nearby stitch legs.

Step 5: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 5:

Locate the stitch from which the yarn tail started. Insert the tip of the darning needle down and through the center of that stitch, toward the inside of the glove.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 6:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through to the inside of the mitten.

Step 7: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 7:

Inspect the top of your mitten to see if the new decorative stitch you have just made matches the rest of the stitching. Adjust the tightness of this stitch by gently pulling on the yarn tail until the stitch matches the others.

Step 8: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 8:

Turn the mitten inside-out. Hold the work so that you can see the oval at the top of the fingertips, with the yarn tail on your left.

Step 9: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 9:

Insert the tip of the darning needle under and through the next two of the stitches that form the top edge of the oval closest to the yarn tail.

Step 10: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 10:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitches.

Step 11: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 11:

Insert the tip of the darning needle under and through the next two of the stitches that form the bottom edge of the oval closest to the yarn tail.

Step 12: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 12:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitches.

Step 13: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 13:

Repeat steps nine through 12, zig-zagging the yarn tail up and down, through the stitches at the edge of the oval. Take care not to pull too tightly; attempt to match the shape and size of the stitches in your pattern. Once you have reached the right side of the oval, the hole should disappear. Remove the darning needle from the tail.

Step 14: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 14:

Inspect your yarn tail by untwisting it a bit, near your work. Identify the individual yarn plies and count them. Use the tip of your darning needle to help you split the plies into two equal sections. With the four-ply yarn shown, the plies should be split so there are two on each side.

Step 15: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 15:

Gently separate the two halves of the yarn with your darning needle by sliding it out toward the end of the tail. Take care not to break the strands by pulling too quickly or roughly.

Step 16: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 16:

Once the tail is split in two, set one half aside and thread the other half through the eye of your darning needle.

Step 17: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 17:

With the darning needle, sew this half of the tail around the knit stitch that it is coming out from under. Do this by bringing your needle tip under and through the other side of the knit stitch.

Step 18: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Mitten Fingertip Tail, Step 18:

Pull the tail through, only tightly enough to match the pattern of your knitting. Do not pull too tightly.

Step 19: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 19:

Remove the tail from the darning needle. Lay the halves of the yarn tail out in opposite directions. One side should point right, the other should point left.

Step 20: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 20:

Tie two small interlocking knots. (See this link for more specific instructions.)  

Step 21: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 21:

Using the sharpest scissors you have available, clip off both halves of the yarn tail, one at a time, as closely as possible to the knot, without cutting the knot itself.

Step 22: Weave in the yarn tail to finish mitten fingertips a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 22:

Turn the mitten right-side-out and inspect the top of the glove to ensure you have closed the hole.

To weave in the thumb tail, you will follow the same basic steps as shown in my “Weave in the Loose End on Hat Tops” lesson, which can be found at this link.

Learn to weave in the loose ends on hand knit mittens in this knitting lesson mini-series with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Return to Mitten Finishing Tips to see how to to weave in your other loose ends.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Ready to try it?

Basic mitten knitting pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

In this lesson, I’ve shown you how to finish the gloves made following my Simple Mitten Knitting Pattern, which is available here.

Learn to weave in the loose ends and finish mitten fingertips in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Up Next

Learn to weave in the tail at the base of a knit mitten thumb in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

In the next lesson, I’ll show you how to weave in the tail at the base of a mitten thumb.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

Weave in the Cast-on Tail of Mittens

Learn to weave in the cast on tail and finish a knit mitten cuff in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Learn to weave in the cast on tail and finish a knit mitten cuff in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Learn to weave in the cast on tail and finish a knit mitten cuff in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

After you finish knitting a mitten, you will need to smooth out the jog left by your long-tail cast on. Using the loose end at the cuff, you can fix the jog. Then, weave in that cast on tail of your mittens. A tiny knot at the end will anchor your tail to the inside of your work and help ensure that it will stay in place for a long time.

Below you will find both video and written guides to help you learn how to finish the bottom edge of knit mittens.

Video Guide: How to Weave in the Cast-on Tail of Mittens

Written Guides: How to Weave in the Cast-on Tail of Mittens

Step 1: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 1:

Thread the loose end through the eye of a darning needle.

Step 2: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 2:

Turn the work so that the cuff of the glove is facing you and the top of the glove is facing down. At the edge of your work, locate the slipknot, which was your first cast on stitch.

Step 3: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 3:

Insert the tip of the darning needle down through the stitch directly behind the slipknot.

Step 4: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 4:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch.

Step 5: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 5:

Insert the tip of the darning needle down and through the slipknot.

Step 6: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 6:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the slipknot.

Step 7: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 7:

Guide the tip of the darning needle under the edge of the work and toward the front of the work.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 8:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through to the outside of your work.

Step 9: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 9:

Locate the loop just behind your slipknot on the backside of your work and insert your darning needle tip down and through it.

Step 10: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 10:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch. 

Step 11: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 11:

Remove the tail from the darning needle.

Step 12: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 12:

Inspect your yarn tail by untwisting it a bit, near your work. Identify the individual yarn plies and count them. Use the tip of your darning needle to help you split the plies into two equal sections. With the four-ply yarn shown, the plies should be split so there are two on each side.

Step 13: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 13:

Gently separate the two halves of the yarn with your darning needle by sliding it out toward the end of the tail. Take care not to break the strands by pulling too quickly or roughly.

Step 14: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 14:

Once the tail is split in two, set one half aside and thread the other half through the eye of your darning needle.

Step 15: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 15:

With the darning needle, sew this half of the tail around the knit stitch that it is coming out from under. Do this by bringing your needle tip under and through the other side of the knit stitch.

Step 16: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 16:

Pull the tail through, only tightly enough to match the pattern of your knitting. Do not pull too tightly.

Step 17: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 17:

Remove the tail from the darning needle.

Step 18: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 18:

Lay the halves of the yarn tail out in opposite directions. One side should point right, the other should point left.

Step 19: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 19:

Tie two small interlocking knots. (See this link for more specific instructions.)  

Step 20: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Mittens, Step 20:

Using the sharpest scissors you have available, clip off both halves of the yarn tail, one at a time, as closely as possible to the knot, without cutting the knot itself.

Step 20: Weave in the cast-on tail of mittens - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Learn to weave in the loose ends on hand knit mittens in this knitting lesson mini-series with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Return to Mitten Finishing Tips to see how to to weave in your other loose ends.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Ready to try it?

Basic mitten knitting pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

In this lesson, I’ve shown you how to finish the gloves made following my Simple Mitten Knitting Pattern, which is available here.

Learn to weave in the cast on tail and finish a knit mitten cuff in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Up Next

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

Weave in Loose Ends on Mittens

Learn to use the yarn tails to finish knit mittens while you weave in your loose ends in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Learn to use the yarn tails to finish knit mittens while you weave in your loose ends in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

After knitting mittens, you will have four loose ends to weave in, just as you had with fingerless gloves. Here, a darning needle will help you use the loose ends to finish your work. You can smooth out jogs at the mitten cuff, round out the glove fingertips, and close the gap at the base of the mitten thumb. For easier reading, I have divided this lesson into three parts; the cast-on tail, the fingertip tails, and the tail at base of the thumb.

Below you will find both video and written guides to help you learn how to finish your gloves.

Lessons – How to Weave in the Loose Ends of Mittens

Learn to weave in the loose end at the cast-on edge (the cuff) of knit mittens in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in the Cast-on Tail of Mittens:

Learn to weave in the yarn tail at the bottom of your mitten cuff in this first lesson, which can be found at this link.

Learn to weave in the loose end at the fingertips of knit mittens in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in the Bind-off Tails on Mittens:

Learn to weave in the yarn tails at the tops of your mitten and thumb in this second lesson, which can be found at this link.

Learn to weave in the loose end at the base of the thumb on knit mittens in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in the Tail at the Base of Fingerless Mitten Thumbs:

Learn to weave in the yarn tail at the base of your glove thumb in this third lesson, which can be found at this link.

Practice With My Knitting Pattern

Ready to try it?

Basic mitten knitting pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

In this lesson, I’ve shown you how to finish the gloves made following my Simple Mitten Knitting Pattern, which is available here.

Learn to use the yarn tails to finish knit mittens while you weave in your loose ends in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Up Next

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

Weave in the Tail at the Base of Fingerless Glove Thumbs

Learn to weave in the tail at the base of a glove thumb and close the gap with duplicate stitch in this knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Learn to weave in the tail at the base of a glove thumb and close the gap with duplicate stitch in this knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

If you used a stitch holder to separate and add your glove thumb, you will have a yarn tail and a hole at the base of your glove thumb. You can use the loose end to close the gap as you weave it into your work. Using a bit of duplicate stitch will help you match the pattern of your knitting when you close the thumb hole. Then, you can tie a small interlocking knot that will anchor your loose end into your project.

Learn to finish fingerless gloves by using loose ends to close gaps in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Below you will find both video and written guides to help you learn how to weave in the tail at the base of fingerless gloves.

Video Guide: How to Weave in the Tail at the Base of Fingerless Glove Thumbs

Written Guides: How to Weave in the Tail at the Base of Fingerless Glove Thumbs

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 1:

Thread the loose end through the eye of a darning needle.

Step 1: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 2:

Pick up the work so you can see the gap at the base of the thumb. Point the thumb away from you and the top of the glove toward you. The hole will appear to be almost diamond-shaped when held in this manner.

Step 2: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 3:

Locate the stitch directly across the gap from where the yarn tail leaves your knitting. Insert the tip of your darning needle upward (toward the thumb tip) and through that stitch.

Step 3: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 4:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch.

Step 4: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 5:

Following the left leg of the next stitch upwards, locate the top of the first stitch to the right of the gap. Begin to trace this stitch with your yarn by inserting the tip of the darning needle under the two legs of the next stitch up.

Step 5: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 6:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch only tightly enough to match the pattern of the work.

Step 6: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 7:

Follow the right leg of the stitch down, toward the hand. Insert your darning needle tip under the loop at the base of the stitch leg. Then, insert the needle tip under the stitch directly on the other side of the thumb gap.

Step 7: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 8:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitches.

Step 8: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 9:

Locate the top of the stitch just above your yarn tail. Trace this stitch with your yarn by inserting the tip of the darning needle under the two legs of the next stitch up.

Step 9: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 10:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitches. The loose end should now be coming from the space just at the tip of the hand-side of the diamond-shaped gap.

Step 10: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 11:

Follow the leg of the stitch at the bottom right of the diamond shape upward, toward the thumb. Insert your darning needle tip under the loop at the base of the stitch leg. Then, insert the needle tip under the stitch directly on the other side of the thumb gap.

Step 11: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 12:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitches.

Step 12: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 13:

Insert your darning needle tip down and through the center of the stitch directly on the other side of the gap. Do not pull the yarn tail through just yet.

Step 13: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 14:

Insert your darning needle tip down and through the center of the stitch located at the left corner of the diamond-shaped gap.

Step 14: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 15:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitches.

Step 15: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 16:

Locate the loop at the corner of the diamond-shape, just below your yarn tail. Insert the tip of the darning needle down and through that loop.

Step 16: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 17:

Pull the tail through to begin closing the gap. Take care to only pull tightly enough to match the pattern of your knitting. Do not pull too tightly.

Step 17: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 18:

Locate the loop at the bottom corner of the diamond-shape, just below your yarn tail. Insert the tip of the darning needle down and through that loop, then up and under the next stitch leg to the left.

Step 18: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 19:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitches.

Step 19: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 20:

Insert the darning needle tip down and through the center of the stitch just above the yarn tail.

Step 20: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 21:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch and into the inside of the glove.

Step 21: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 22:

Turn the glove inside out and locate a purl stitch that is near your yarn tail. Insert the darning needle tip under and through that stitch.

Step 22: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 23:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch.

Step 23: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 24:

Remove the tail from the darning needle. Inspect your yarn tail by untwisting it a bit, near your work. Identify the individual yarn plies and count them. Use the tip of your darning needle to help you split the plies into two equal sections. With the four-ply yarn shown, the plies should be split so there are two on each side. Gently separate the two halves of the yarn with your darning needle by sliding it out toward the end of the tail. Take care not to break the strands by pulling too quickly or roughly.

Step 24: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 25:

Once the tail is split in two, set one half aside and thread the other half through the eye of your darning needle.

Step 25: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 26:

With the darning needle, sew this half of the tail around the stitch that it is coming out from under. Do this by bringing your needle tip under and through the other side of the knit stitch.

Step 26: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 27:

Remove the tail from the darning needle. Lay the sides of your top yarn tail out in opposite directions. One side should point right, the other should point left.

Step 27: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 28:

Tie two small interlocking knots. (See this link for more specific instructions.)  

Step 28: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 29:

Using the sharpest scissors you have available, clip off both halves of the yarn tail, one at a time, as closely as possible to the knot, without cutting the knot itself.

Step 29: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Thumb Tail, Step 30:

Turn your glove right side out.

Step 30: Weave in the loose end at the base of a fingerless glove thumb - knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Learn to weave in loose ends on fingerless gloves with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Return to Fingerless Glove Finishing Tips to see how to to weave in your other loose ends.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Ready to try it?

Simple fingerless glove knitting pattern in all sizes by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels.

In this lesson, I’ve shown you how to finish the gloves made following my Simple Fingerless Glove Pattern, which is available here.

Learn to weave in the tail at the base of a glove thumb and close the gap with duplicate stitch in this knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Up Next

Finishing mittens is up next. I’ll show you how to round out the tops of mittens weave in all your ends.

Learn to weave in the loose ends of knit mittens in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

Weave in Bind-off Tails in the Round

Learn to weave in the bind off tail on items you have knit in the round, such as fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Learn to weave in the bind off tail on items you have knit in the round, such as fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Learn to finish the tops of knits worked in the round in this lesson about ending fingerless glove tops from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

A standard bind off in the round will leave a yarn tail and a small jog where your knitted row ends. As you weave in your bind off tails in the round, you can use the yarn tail to close the gap and make a seamless, smooth edge.

In this lesson, I will show you how I weave in my yarn tails at the thumb and fingertips of fingerless gloves. This method will also help you finish headbands, ear warmers, leg warmers, cup cozies, and any other items you’ve finished with a standard bind off in the round.

After perfecting the glove edge, I tie in the loose ends with two small, interlocking knots. This tiny, nearly invisible knot anchors the yarn tail in place. Then, it hides itself among your stitches.

Below you will find both video and written guides to help you learn how to weave in bind off tails in the round.

Video Guide: How to Weave in the Bind-off Tail of Fingerless Gloves

Written Guides: How to Weave in the Bind-off Tail of Fingerless Gloves

Step 1: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 1:

Thread the loose end through the eye of a darning needle.

Step 2: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 2:

Pick up the work so that the bind-off edge is facing you.

Step 3: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 3:

At the edge of your work, you will see “>”-shaped stitches. Locate the stitch just next to the yarn tail, on the other side of the jog left by your bind off. Insert the tip of your darning needle under both legs of the “>”-shaped stitch.

Step 4: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 4:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch.

Step 5: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 5:

Locate the stitch from which the yarn tail started. Insert the tip of the darning needle down and through the center of that stitch, ensuring your needle tip goes under the leg of the stitch toward the inside of the project.

Step 6: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 6:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch only tightly enough to match the pattern at the edge of the work.

Step 7: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 7:

Rotate the work so you can see the inside of the project and the yarn tail. At this point, a small hole will remain just next to where the yarn tail comes out of your work.

Step 8: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 8:

Locate the purl stitch on the other side of the hole. Insert the darning needle tip down and through that stitch.

Step 9: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 9:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch.

Step 10: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 10:

Locate the knit stitch just to the left of the purl stitch you just worked into. Insert the darning needle tip down and through that stitch.

Step 11: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 11:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch.

Step 12: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 12:

Remove the tail from the darning needle.

Step 13: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 13:

Inspect your yarn tail by untwisting it a bit, near your work. Identify the individual yarn plies and count them. Use the tip of your darning needle to help you split the plies into two equal sections. With the four-ply yarn shown, the plies should be split so there are two on each side.

Step 14: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 14:

Gently separate the two halves of the yarn with your darning needle by sliding it out toward the end of the tail. Take care not to break the strands by pulling too quickly or roughly.

Step 15: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 15:

Once the tail is split in two, set one half aside and thread the other half through the eye of your darning needle.

Step 16: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 16:

With the darning needle, sew this half of the tail around the knit stitch that it is coming out from under. Do this by bringing your needle tip under and through the other side of the knit stitch.

Step 17: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 17:

Pull the tail through, only tightly enough to match the pattern of your knitting. Do not pull too tightly.

Step 18: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 18:

Remove the tail from the darning needle. Lay the halves of the yarn tail out in opposite directions. One side should point right, the other should point left.

Step 19: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 19:

Tie two small interlocking knots. (See this link for more specific instructions.)  

Step 20: Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Bind-off Tail in the Round, Step 20:

Using the sharpest scissors you have available, clip off both halves of the yarn tail, one at a time, as closely as possible to the knot, without cutting the knot itself.

Weave in loose ends at the bind off edge of fingerless gloves in this lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Learn to weave in loose ends on fingerless gloves with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Return to Fingerless Glove Finishing Tips to see how to to weave in your other loose ends.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Ready to try it?

Simple fingerless glove knitting pattern in all sizes by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels.

In this lesson, I’ve shown you how to finish the gloves made following my Simple Fingerless Glove Pattern, which is available here.

Learn to weave in the bind off tail on items you have knit in the round, such as fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Up Next

Learn to weave in the tail at the base of the thumb on a knit fingerless glove in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

After you weave in the bind off tails in the round, one last tail will remain at the base of your glove thumb. In the next lesson, I will show you how to use that loose end to close the gap at the base of the thumb.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

Weave in the Cast-on Tail of Fingerless Gloves

Learn to tie up loose ends on fingerless gloves - step, 1 - the cast-on tail - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Learn to tie up loose ends on fingerless gloves - step, 1 - the cast-on tail - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Learn how to finish the cuff of fingerless gloves using the loose end - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

At the beginning of your knit rounds, there will likely be a small jog near your slipknot. When you weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves, you can fix the jog and hide the slipknot. Use a darning needle to sew the loose end into the project, while doing your best to match the pattern you’ve knit. Then, tie in your loose ends to hide your ends and anchor your yarn in place.

Below you will find both video and written guides to help you learn how to finish the bottom edge of fingerless gloves.

Video Guide: How to Weave in the Cast-on Tail of Fingerless Gloves

Written Guides: How to Weave in the Cast-on Tail of Fingerless Gloves

Step 1: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 1:

Thread the loose end through the eye of a darning needle.

Step 2: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 2:

Turn the work so that the cuff of the glove is facing you and the top of the glove is facing down. At the edge of your work, locate the slipknot, which was your first cast on stitch.

Step 3: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 3:

Insert the tip of the darning needle down through the stitch directly behind the slipknot.

Step 4: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 4:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the stitch.

Step 5: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 5:

Insert the tip of the darning needle down and through the slipknot.

Step 6: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 6:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through the slipknot.

Step 7: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 7:

Guide the tip of the darning needle under the edge of the work and toward the front of the work.

Step 8: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 8:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail through to the outside of your work.

Step 9: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 9:

Locate the loop just behind your slipknot on the backside of your work and insert your darning needle tip down and through it.

Step 10: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 10:

Pull the needle and the yarn tail though the stitch. 

Step 11: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 11:

Remove the tail from the darning needle.

Step 12: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 12:

Inspect your yarn tail by untwisting it a bit, near your work. Identify the individual yarn plies and count them. Use the tip of your darning needle to help you split the plies into two equal sections. With the four-ply yarn shown, the plies should be split so there are two on each side.

Step 13: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 13:

Gently separate the two halves of the yarn with your darning needle by sliding it out toward the end of the tail. Take care not to break the strands by pulling too quickly or roughly.

Step 14: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 14:

Once the tail is split in two, set one half aside and thread the other half through the eye of your darning needle.

Step 15: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 15:

With the darning needle, sew this half of the tail around the knit stitch that it is coming out from under. Do this by bringing your needle tip under and through the other side of the knit stitch.

Step 16: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 16:

Pull the tail through, only tightly enough to match the pattern of your knitting. Do not pull too tightly.

Step 17: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 17:

Remove the tail from the darning needle.

Step 18: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 18:

Lay the halves of the yarn tail out in opposite directions. One side should point right, the other should point left.

Step 19: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 19:

Tie two small interlocking knots. (See this link for more specific instructions.)  

Step 20: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in Cast on Tail Fingerless Gloves, Step 20:

Using the sharpest scissors you have available, clip off both halves of the yarn tail, one at a time, as closely as possible to the knot, without cutting the knot itself.

Step 20: Weave in the cast-on tail of fingerless gloves - a knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Return to Fingerless Glove Finishing Tips to see how to to weave in your other loose ends.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Ready to try it?

Simple fingerless glove knitting pattern in all sizes by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels.

In this lesson, I’ve shown you how to finish the gloves made following my Simple Fingerless Glove Pattern, which is available here.

Learn to tie up loose ends on fingerless gloves - step, 1 - the cast-on tail - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Up Next

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

Weave in Loose Ends on Fingerless Gloves

After knitting fingerless gloves, you will have four loose ends to weave in. Using a darning needle, you can sew the tails into your work in a manner that matches your pattern. Then, I like to tie tiny knots to secure the tails into the work. I have divided this lesson into three parts; the cast-on tail, the bind off tails, and the tail at base of the thumb.

Below you will find both video and written guides to help you learn how to finish your fingerless gloves.

Lessons – How to Weave in the Loose Ends of Fingerless Gloves

Weave in the Cast-on Tail of Fingerless Gloves:

Learn to weave in the yarn tail at the bottom of your glove cuff in this first lesson, which can be found at this link.

Finishing fingerless gloves, part one - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in the Bind-off Tails on Fingerless Gloves:

Learn to weave in the yarn tails at the tops of your glove hand and thumb in this second lesson, which can be found at this link.

Finishing fingerless gloves, part two - a knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Weave in the Tail at the Base of Fingerless Glove Thumbs:

Learn to weave in the yarn tail at the base of your glove thumb in this third lesson, which can be found at this link.

Practice With My Knitting Pattern

Ready to try it?

Simple fingerless glove knitting pattern in all sizes by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels.

In this lesson, I’ve shown you how to finish the gloves made following my Simple Fingerless Glove Pattern, which is available here.

Up Next

I’ll show you how to weave in the loose ends on mittens in the next mini-series.

Learn to weave in the loose ends on knit mittens in this knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index