The Shaftsbury Socks were inspired by the beautiful yarn from Wing & A Prayer Farm in Shaftsbury, Vermont.

From raising the fiber animals and working with a local mill, to dyeing each skein with natural plants that she grows in the dye garden, Tammy has created a beautiful and durable local sock yarn.

For the pattern, I wanted something simple that would show off the colors of any hand-dyed yarn. The horizontal bars created by the simple texture do just that, and the pattern is engaging to knit yet easy to memorize, suitable for the beginning sock knitter. The slightly larger needle size and robust fingering yarn create a bouncy fabric that hugs your toes and will keep your feet warm and comfy.

This is a great texture for the “special” skein of sock yarn in your stash. Suggested yarn substitutions are also given below.

Sizes Available
Women’s US shoe size 6-7, 8-9, 10-11
Men’s US shoe size (8-9, 10-11, 12+)

Yarn Requirements
Approximately 275 - 420 yards heavy fingering or light sport-weight yarn. Sample shown in Vermont Sock Yarn by Wing & A Prayer Farm, 375 yards per 100 grams, 80% wool; 20% nylon.

Suggested substitutions: Neighborhood Fiber Co. Studio Sock, 400 yards / 113 grams; Ewetopia Fiber Mill Wisco Sock, 420 yards / 115 grams.

Tip: If you are on the edge of needing more yardage for the size you want to make, but don’t want to buy an entire extra skein, use some scrap yarn from your stash in a coordinating color to knit the heels, toes, and/or cuffs.

Techniques to explore:
Twisted German cast-on
Short-rows with wrap and turn
Kitchener stitch
Links to videos for each technique are included in the pattern, along with detailed instructions.