Vintage knitting patterns intrigue me, especially the patterns that require a ‘leap of faith’, as they include written instructions only with no pictures of the stitch pattern or finished project.

I’ve taken the leap for you and created a pretty pair of lace socks using a pattern from the 1884 booklet, “The Self-Instructor in Silk Knitting, Crocheting and Embroidery”.

The lace pattern is easy (only 5 rows), and results in a feminine lace design. It’s a great pattern for those of us with less than slender ankles, as it’s nicely stretchy.

Use any fingering weight sock yarn to knit yourself a lovely vintage pattern! Sample socks were knit with Kraemer Yarn’s “Wilma” and dyed using fustic and madder natural dyes.

Pattern is top-down, with French (or Round) Heel and kitchener-stitch toe. Instructions are written.