The Holly Stocking is a bulky-weight project worked from the cuff down in the round; instructions are given for the magic loop method. The folded cuff is worked in 2x2 rib, followed by the cable chart that continues throughout the length of the stocking. Waste yarn is placed at the end of the leg to mark a forethought heel. Once the foot and toe are complete, the waste yarn is removed to reveal the heel opening, and the heel is finished in the same manner as the toe. Finally, a short i-cord loop is worked and sewn to the top of the stocking for hanging.

Size
One size, with two heel and toe options (narrow and wide).

Finished measurements
Approx. 16” 40 cm circumference × 19” 48 cm length.

Gauge
18 sts × 18 rows = 4 x 4” 10 x 10 cm in cabled pattern, after blocking.

Needles
7.0 mm US 10¾ / 80 or 100 cm 32 or 40 inches circular needles for stocking. 4.0 mm US 6 circular needle or DPN for i-cord loop. For reference, I’m a very tight knitter.

Yarn needed
250g / approx. 300 yd 274 m of bulky weight yarn OR 250g / approx 485 yd 443 m of worsted weight yarn held double (total; about 243 yd per strand).

Notions
stitch marker; cable needle; tapestry needle; waste yarn for forethought heel.

Yarn used
White sample: one strand each of Lion Brand Wool-Ease in Cream and Patons Classic Wool Worsted in Aran, held together. Brown sample: two strands of Patons Classic Wool Worsted in Heath Heather, held together.

A note on fiber: I usually avoid acrylic, but the white sample (acrylic/wool blend) turned out sturdier, and I think it holds weight better. The brown sample (100% wool) is lovely and soft with more drape, but it also has more give. Pick whichever fiber suits your preference and how you’ll use your stocking.

Techniques Used
Cables (worked from charts), working in the round using magic loop, decreases, 2 × 2 ribbing, forethought heel (waste-yarn placement), kitchener stitch used at both toe and heel, and i-cord.

Difficulty
Adventurous beginner

This pattern comes with a companion tutorial teaching major steps!