The Early Bird Socks feature wriggly curvy lines down the front to resemble worms, with purl stitches in the negative space that look like scattered seeds, giving these socks really pretty textural interest. They are worked cuff-down with options for a Crew or Ankle Leg, your choice of an Eye of Partridge Flap & Gusset Heel or a Shadow Wrap Short Row Heel, and a Wedge Toe. The texture motif is worked on the front of the leg and down the top of the foot using increases, decreases, and purl stitches.

SIZES
Extra-Small (Small, Medium, Large, Extra-Large)/XS (S, M, L, XL) to fit actual foot circumference 6 (7, 8, 9, 10)”/15.2 (17.8, 20.3, 22.9, 25.4) cm, measured around the ball of the foot (the widest part). Negative ease is built in to the pattern. The length
and height are adjustable. If you find that you are in-between sizes, choose the smaller size if you like your socks to fit snug, or the larger size if you prefer a looser fit.

YARN
Approximately 200 (250, 300, 350, 400) yards/183 (229, 274, 305, 366) meters fingering-weight sock yarn, recommended in a blend of wool (for warmth) and nylon (for added strength and durability)
Samples shown in Lang Yarns Jawoll Superwash 75/25 (230 yds/210m per 50g) in 23 White Smoke and Brine Dyeworks 75/25 Merino Sock (463 yds/423m per 100g) in Swedish Fish.

SUGGESTED NEEDLES
US 1/2.25 mm (or size needed to obtain gauge) 36”/90 cm or longer circular needles for magic loop, double-pointed needles, or 9”/23 cm circular needles

GAUGE
32 sts and 45 rows per 4”/10 cm measured over stockinette knit in the round, after blocking

This pattern has been test knit by knitters with a wide variety of experience.