Arrowroot Socks

Arrowroot Socks by Kelly Menzies

What is Being Made

The Arrowroot Socks are a knitted sock pattern designed by Kelly Menzies, available in six graduated sizes to fit babies, toddlers, children, teens, adults, and large adults. The pattern accommodates foot circumferences ranging from 11 cm (4.5 inches) for babies up to 22 cm (8.5 inches) for large adults, making this a versatile design suitable for the entire family.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project employs circular knitting techniques using double-pointed needles, which is the traditional method for constructing seamless socks from the cuff down. The pattern incorporates two distinct stitch patterns that create visual interest and texture throughout the sock design.

The Arrowroot Socks feature a combination of tent stitch and stocking stitch (also known as stockinette stitch), allowing for both decorative patterning and smooth, fitted fabric sections. The use of these contrasting stitches creates the characteristic arrowroot design that gives the pattern its name.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches and shaping techniques appropriate for sock construction:

• Knit (K) – the basic knit stitch forming the foundation of the fabric
• Purl (P) – creating texture variation and pattern definition
• Tent Stitch – a decorative stitch technique used in sections of the sock
• Stocking Stitch – the primary smooth stitch used for fitted sock sections
• K2TOG (Knit Two Together) – a decrease technique for shaping
• SSK (Slip, Slip, Knit) – a left-leaning decrease used for symmetrical shaping
• Slip Stitches – used both knitwise and purlwise for various construction purposes

Materials Required

The Arrowroot Socks are designed to be worked with 4-ply (fingering weight) yarn, which provides the appropriate thickness for comfortable, durable socks with excellent stitch definition. The yardage requirements vary by size: babies require approximately 100 meters (110 yards), toddlers need 150 meters (165 yards), children require 188 meters (206 yards), teens need 276 meters (302 yards), adults require 300 meters (330 yards), and large adults need 384 meters (420 yards).

The pattern is shown worked in Drops Alpaca, a 100% alpaca yarn available in multiple colorways. The photographed versions feature shade 7323 – Aqua Grey Mix and shade 9021 – Fog, demonstrating how different yarn colors can showcase the arrowroot stitch pattern.

Needle requirements include 2 mm (US 0) double-pointed needles and 2.5 mm (US 1.5) double-pointed needles, allowing knitters to adjust needle size for proper gauge. Additional notions include one stitch marker for tracking rounds, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and a row counter to track progress through the pattern.

Gauge and Tension

Achieving proper gauge is essential for well-fitting socks. When working tent stitch with 2.5 mm needles, the gauge should measure 36 stitches by 44 rounds over a 10 by 10 centimeter (4 by 4 inch) swatch. When working stocking stitch with the same needle size, the gauge measures 32 stitches by 46 rounds over the same swatch measurement. These gauge specifications ensure that the finished socks will fit the intended foot circumference accurately.

Pattern Format and Publication

The Arrowroot Socks pattern is provided in written format as a downloadable PDF, originally published in October 2020. The pattern includes original photography by designer Kelly Menzies and artwork by Caroline Bond, providing visual guidance throughout the construction process.