This pattern includes a second PDF version that is formatted for knitters with low vision. It has black text, size 22 or larger text in a sans serif font, no italics, no columns, and fully-written directions. The chart is still included but is not needed to work the pattern. Many thanks to Gemma Thompson (gemmabelle here on Rav) and the Accessible Patterns group for their guidance in formatting patterns in a more accessible way.

An incunabulum is a category of book printed before 1501. It doesn’t refer to a manuscript, which must be written by hand using a quill, but to books created so early in the printing era that they have become especially prized by collectors and scholars who study early printing. During the 1500s, as movable type began to take hold across Europe, the volume of printed books and pamphlets grew exponentially.

The Incunabulum Socks have alternating textured rows with eyelet zig-zags and 1x1 ribbing that remind me of boxes of typeset letters organized into rows. The socks are knit from the cuff down and graded to five sizes. A heel flap and gusset provide an adjustable fit.

Sizes

1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Finished sock dimensions: 6.25” (16 cm), 7.5” (19 cm), 8.75” (22 cm), 10” (25.5 cm), 11.25” (28.5 cm) circumference (Note: most people like their socks snug, so choose a finished sock size that is slightly smaller than your actual foot)

Materials

Fingering weight yarn, 280-440 yds (256-403 m)

Sample shown knit in Sew Happy Jane Joyful Fingering, 75% Superwash Merino, 25% nylon, 459 yds (420 m) per 3.5 oz (100 g)

Gauge

4” (10 cm) square = 32 stitches x 40 rows in stockinette

Needles

One set of needles for your preferred style of small-circumference knitting in a size to match gauge listed above. Suggested needle size: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Tools

One stitch marker for beginning of round; optional additional markers between pattern repeats. Tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Skill Level

Intermediate. Techniques include decreases, knitting in the round, stockinette grafting.