These socks are named for a common colloquial English phrase, which one might loosely translate as “A bit of bother”. And given that the stitch pattern contains an SSP, a left-leaning purl decrease, one might agree that this is an accurate way to describe them. And yet, I believe that the loveliness that results is utterly, utterly worth it.

The stitch pattern combines two things I adore – lace and cables – in a way I find utterly captivating. It’s a feminine twist on a masculine sort of pattern – a lacy argyle. The pattern isn’t too tricky… well, ok, other than the pesky SSP. I’ve given details on that in the glossary and a cheat if you’re struggling with it. If you can read charts, you can do it!

They’re worked top down with a heel flap and gusset and a no-graft toe. The heel flap is worked plain as written, but you can work a slipped stitch reinforcement pattern if you wish. There is a left and a right. The difference is subtle but important. It’s all in the direction of the central cable turns.