Retro Cables by Maureen Foulds

Retro Cables

Knitting
October 2014
Fingering (14 wpi) ?
34 stitches and 48 rows = 4 inches
in cable pattern
US 1½ - 2.5 mm
US 2 - 2.75 mm
400 - 460 yards (366 - 421 m)
Medium (Large), with an 8” (9”) leg circumference, lightly blocked
English
This pattern is available for $5.00 USD buy it now

The possibilities are endless with these socks, which combine simple 2/2 cables with sections of ribbing. Done in one color, they are a quick, satisfying knit with just enough detail to keep you interested. For color work lovers, add flare by combining a solid with a variegated or self-striping yarn.

Pattern flexibilty
The pattern itself is very customizable. The cables form a V-shaped patttern down the leg.

  • When working in a single color, substitute simple ribbing (no cables) or stocking stitch on the back of the leg for a faster knit with added stretch.
  • In 2 colors, I strongly recommend working the cables only on the front of the sock and doing ribbing on the back to provide enough stretch as stranded cables pull the fabric in.

The pattern photos show both plain and color work options.

Skills Needed: Must be familiar with sock construction and knitting in the round. Knit, purl, working with cables. Stranded knitting skills needed for 2 color version.

This pattern is available in both toe up and cuff down versions, charted and written instructions.

Materials

  • Play at Life Fiber Arts, Boundless Sockie Maki (75% superwash merino, 25% nylon; 460yd/420m per 4 oz/100g). Substitute 460 yds/420m of fingering weight yarn.

  • US #1.5 (2.5mm) needles for working in the round: DPNs, 1 long circular or 2 short circular, as you prefer, or size needles required to obtain gauge. Note: 2.75mm needles recommended for the 2 color version

  • Tapestry needle, stitch markers.