Combination Plate Socks

Combination Plate Socks by Mary E Rose Designs

What Is Being Made

Combination Plate Socks are a knitted sock design available in three sizes: 6.5, 8, and 9.5 inch circumference (16.5, 20, and 24 cm). This project creates a finished pair of socks using a combination of yarn weights and techniques to achieve a unique construction method inspired by the concept of a "Yarn Diet"—a fiber-filled sock regime that blends different yarn specifications within a single project.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

These socks are worked in the round using small-diameter circular needles or double-pointed needles (dpn), allowing for seamless construction. The pattern employs a two-needle technique approach, utilizing different needle sizes to achieve specific gauge requirements for each yarn weight used in the design. This intermediate-level project demonstrates how varying needle sizes and yarn weights can be strategically combined within a single sock to create visual and textural interest.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch construction uses Stockinette Stitch (St st), the fundamental knit stitch pattern that creates the smooth, classic sock fabric. The pattern is designed for intermediate knitters who are comfortable working in the round and managing gauge changes across different yarn weights.

Yarn and Materials

The Combination Plate Socks pattern showcases versatility through the use of two distinct yarn options from Knit Picks Felici:

• Knit Picks Felici Worsted Weight: 75% Superwash Merino Wool, 25% nylon composition, providing 218 yards (199 meters) per 100 grams (3.53 ounces). One ball in Rainbow colorway is required.
• Knit Picks Felici Fingering Weight: 75% Superwash Merino Wool, 25% nylon blend, yielding 218 yards (199 meters) per 50 grams (1.76 ounces). One ball in Rainbow colorway is required.

The nylon content in both yarns provides durability and elasticity, essential for sock longevity and fit. The Superwash Merino Wool ensures easy care and comfort against the skin.

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires two different needle sizes to accommodate the gauge requirements of each yarn weight:

• US 3 (3.25mm) circular or dpn needles for the worsted weight yarn sections
• US 1 (2.25mm) circular or dpn needles for the fingering weight yarn sections

Knitters may substitute needle sizes as needed to obtain the specified gauges. Additional notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping, and a large-eyed sewing needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Gauge Information

Achieving proper gauge is critical for this pattern due to its use of multiple yarn weights:

• Worsted Weight Gauge: 22 stitches and 28 rows equal 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette Stitch using US 3 (3.25mm) needles
• Fingering Weight Gauge: 32 stitches and 36 rows equal 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette Stitch using US 1 (2.25mm) needles

Knitters should swatch both yarn weights with their chosen needles to verify gauge before beginning the project, ensuring proper sock fit and the intended appearance of the finished design.