I was following a pattern I’d found online because I liked how hers looked better than some others I’d seen. I think I agree it makes it harder to do it in the round, when it comes to consistancy (I did try to compare, but couldn’t really figure anything to do to fix the problem other than starting over again) but I think I like the way it turns out better lookswise. I think it was the nicest of the fingerless mittens I’d seen, then again that might just be because the creator is very good . Not quite sure what I’m going to do with the two I made, they’re noticeably different Maybe I’ll try making it again, with one to match the larger and one to match the smaller.

Your best bet is to do the gauge (test swatch) if the pattern provides one, especially if you are trying to make clothing smaller. If you follow the gauge pattern using the hook mentioned and your swatch is smaller, than you have a tighter tension and your item WILL come out smaller anyway!

If you want to make an item smaller than a pattern’s finished size, you may be able to use a smaller hook depending on the yarn (if you’ve already bought it), but look at the yarn label first. It should show you what size of hook is typically used with that yarn. While you can use larger hooks, the yarn is likely to be difficult to work with if you use a smaller hook.
So, for example, a worsted weight yarn (#4) shows a 8-H (5mm) hook on the label. If a 8-H hook is what the pattern calls for and you want to use a G-6 (4mm) hook, then you should go down a size/type of yarn to #3 DK, Light Worsted.

Working a gauge can be tedious but necessary if you want to achieve a particular size. It’s worth the time and effort because you know your project will be the right size. Even ½ inch can make a big difference. I hope that was of some help.

Rebecca in Toronto