River Twist Socks by Halyna Shemchuk

River Twist Socks

Machine Knitting
November 2025
both are used in this pattern
yarn held together
Fingering
+ Thread
= Fingering (14 wpi) ?
36 stitches and 44 rows = 4 inches
in Stockinette stitch
394 - 437 yards (360 - 400 m)
36–38 (39–41) EU
English Ukrainian
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River Twist Socks are cozy machine-knitted socks with a raised, interlacing texture inspired by the gentle curves of a flowing river. The twisting lines form a calm rhythm that feels both elegant and organic, reflecting the movement of water as it winds through its banks.

These socks are worked on a standard gauge double-bed knitting machine using the plating technique, where a fine secondary yarn is fed alongside the main yarn to subtly outline the pattern and add depth without extra bulk. The result is a fabric that feels smooth yet sculptural, highlighting the play of light and texture.

The combination of 2×2 rib, manual stitch transfers, and plating creates a tactile surface that hugs the foot comfortably while retaining elasticity. The design features a short-row heel, toe shaping by stitch transfers, and a Kitchener grafted toe for a refined finish.

The sample shown is knitted in Malabrigo Sock (100% superwash merino, 400 m / 100 g) with Tollegno Harmony as the plating yarn, creating a rich, riverbank-inspired palette that enhances the twisting motif.

Skill level: Intermediate to advanced. Recommended for knitters familiar with double-bed machine knitting and plating technique.

Techniques used:
• 2×2 rib knitting
• Manual stitch transferring
• Short-row shaping for heel
• Toe shaping by stitch transfers
• Plating technique
• Kitchener stitch (grafting)
• Mattress stitch

Machine: Standard gauge double-bed (e.g., Brother KH 890 / KR 850)
Yarn: Fingering / sock weight (approx. 400–420 m / 100 g)

All video tutorials demonstrate the process step by step - from cast-on to finishing - and are shown based on size 1.