sõrmik

Sõrmik is the Estonian word for mitten, a hand covering that keeps the hand warm by enclosing the four fingers together in one pocket and providing a separate pocket for the thumb. The term derives from sõrm, finger, with the suffix -ik, indicating a type of item.

In Estonia and other cold climates, sõrmikud have been used for centuries as practical winter wear. Traditionally knitted from wool or animal fibers, they were common in rural life and remain part of many folk costumes. Today they are produced in a range of materials, including wool blends and synthetic fibers, and appear in everyday winter wear as well as fashion designs.

Construction typically involves a tube-like shape with an opening at the wrist, a large pocket for the four fingers, and a secondary pocket for the thumb. Variants vary in length, cuff style, and pattern, from plain to decorative knit motifs.

Care generally follows the fiber: woollen mittens are often hand-washed and air-dried to preserve shape; machine washing may be possible for certain blends. They are frequently knit at home or purchased as craft items, reflecting a long knitting tradition in Estonia and northern Europe.

See also: mitten, glove, knitting.