This is a type of stocking that was commonly hand knitted from the 16th through much of the 19th century. It is suitable for medieval or Civil War re-enactors or people doing living history presentations.

The photos show the designer’s own stockings, made from handspun yarn between 15 and 18 wpi. These are large sized, made for the designer’s “generous calf.” The pattern also includes a medium size for more average legs. The historical stocking has a garter stitch welt at the top, back seam, shaped common heel, and round toe shaping.

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Modern Version

No longer available

A more modern version of the stocking is also included with this pattern. It has the more familiar ribbed top, round heel and wedge toe found in so many modern socks. For the modern version:

Materials: approximately 300 yards each of two colors of sport weight yarn

Needles: 3.25 mm (US size 3),
or size to achieve gauge

Gauge: 25 stitches/30 rows = 4”/10 cm

Earlier versions, and other patterns by the same designer, are available at Grenewode.