Essential Latvian Mitten Techniques with Iveta Kulina

History and Heritage of Latvian Knitted Mittens
Latvian knitted mittens are one of the country's most treasured textile traditions, with a history spanning many centuries. More than practical winter clothing, they were symbols of identity, skill, and good fortune. Every region developed its own distinctive patterns and colour combinations, often inspired by nature, ancient beliefs, and traditional Baltic symbols. Young women were expected to knit dozens of pairs before marriage, and beautifully crafted mittens were given as gifts at weddings and other important life events.The Latvian Braid
The Latvian braid is a traditional decorative technique found in many Latvian mittens. Created by twisting two contrasting yarns around each other, it forms a raised, rope-like border that is both beautiful and practical. The braid separates pattern sections, adds strength to the fabric, and creates a distinctive handcrafted finish. Today, it remains one of the most recognisable features of authentic Latvian knitting.In this workshop, you will learn three essential techniques found in traditional Latvian mittens: the decorative Latvian braid, the afterthought thumb, and the distinctive Nordic-style triangular mitten top. Rather than knitting a full-sized mitten, we will create miniature mittens, allowing you to learn and practise all three techniques in a short amount of time. By the end of the workshop, you'll have the confidence to incorporate these beautiful traditional details into your own mitten projects.At the end of the workshop, you will be able to choose one of three wrist warmer designstwo inspired by traditional Latvian mittens and one original BalticKnits designto continue knitting at home. Each design has been created so that you can easily incorporate a Latvian braid, giving you the unity to practise your new skills while discovering how beautifully this traditional technique can enhance not only wrist warmers and mittens, but almost any knitted project.
Workshop participants will receive an exclusive discount on BalticKnits Latvian mitten kits, making it easy to continue exploring these traditional techniques at home.
The workshop tutor will also be available after the class to offer advice and support should you need any help with your Latvian mitten knitting or any of the techniques covered during the workshop.
Required skills:
Basic knitting (knit and purl stitches) .
Basic colourwork.
Knitting in the round is helpful but not essential, as this can also be learned during the workshop.The workshop fee includes:
Detailed written instructions for each of the Latvian mitten knitting techniques covered during the workshop.
Yarn to knit a miniature mitten sampler.
Full-colour charts for all three wrist warmer designs.
Yarn for one wrist warmer design of your choice.Iveta Kulina moved to Scotland from Latvia, where she learned to knit from an early age. She has been knitting since the age of twelve and grew up in a country where traditional colourwork knitting is an important part of the national heritage.
In Scotland, Iveta founded BalticKnits, a small business dedicated to sharing the knitting traditions of the Baltic countries through original knitting kits and authentic Baltic wool yarns.
Iveta is an experienced workshop tutor and has taught knitting workshops in Latvia, Scotland and England. Her classes combine practical techniques with the stories and traditions behind Baltic knitting, creating an enjoyable and inspiring learning experience for knitters of all abilities.