Rambling Socks by Susan Gressman

Rambling Socks

Knitting
March 2018
Light Fingering ?
10 stitches and 12 rows = 1 inch
in unstretched k2p1rib
US 0 - 2.0 mm
350 - 400 yards (320 - 366 m)
Adjust to fit your foot
English
This pattern is available for $7.50 USD buy it now

These socks are knit cuff down using mostly a rib stitch so that they stay up and stretch to accommodate varying size calfs. I used dpn’s but any technique will work well with this design.

Plain rib can be boring, so I have added a cable and eyelet accent running down the outer leg on each sock. This adds interest but only requires close attention over 12 stitches, not the entire sock. The cable pattern is both written and charted to accommodate individual preferences.

The slip stitch heel wears well and gives a nice snug fit. I have included my “trick” to avoid gusset holes and my favorite “rocket” toe shaping.

I know many prefer toe up techniques because they can “try them on as they go”. That’s the same reason I prefer cuff down! it seems to me that both methods lend themselves to the “try it on as you go”.

This is my first attempt at designing socks. Over the years I have tried every construction method, trick and tip that I have encountered to knit the “perfect” pair of socks. It seems to me that every method, tip and trick has both advantages and disadvantages which vary from knitter to knitter based on personal preference. What I have done with this design is combine my personal favorites.