Port George Socks

Port George Socks by TLCrafts and Design

What is Being Made

Port George Socks is a downloadable knitting pattern for a fitted sock design available in three sizes: Small (7.50" circumference), Medium (8.50" circumference), and Large (9.50" circumference). This intermediate-level project creates a complete pair of socks using the magic loop technique on circular needles, making it accessible for knitters who prefer working on a single needle rather than managing multiple double-pointed needles.

Techniques Used

The Port George Socks pattern employs several essential sock-knitting techniques to achieve a well-fitting, durable garment. The magic loop method is the primary construction technique, allowing knitters to work small circumferences on a 40-inch circular needle by dividing stitches and working in the round. The pattern incorporates wrap and turn (w&t) shaping, a short-row technique that creates custom heel and foot shaping without the need for traditional heel flaps. This method provides a smooth, anatomically-shaped heel cup that conforms to the foot. Knitters will also work in stockinette stitch, the foundational stitch for sock construction, which creates a smooth, elastic fabric ideal for foot wear.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches and increases essential for sock construction. Key stitches include:

• Stockinette stitch – the primary fabric stitch, worked in the round as knit stitches
• KFB (knit into the front and back) – an increase stitch that creates two stitches from one, used for shaping the foot and leg
• PFB (purl into the front and back) – a purl-based increase stitch for shaping variations
• Wrap and turn (w&t) – a short-row technique that wraps stitches to eliminate holes while creating shaped sections

Materials and Tools

The Port George Socks pattern calls for Miss Babs Caroline yarn in fingering weight, a premium blend of 70% Superwash Merino, 20% Cashmere, and 10% Nylon. One skein provides 400 yards (365 meters), sufficient yardage to complete one pair of socks in any of the three sizes. The colorway featured in the pattern documentation is "Without A Paddle." This yarn composition offers softness from the cashmere and merino, durability from the nylon reinforcement, and easy care through the superwash treatment.

Needles required are US 1 / 2.25 mm circular needles in a 40-inch length, though the pattern notes that double-pointed needles are an acceptable alternative for knitters who prefer that method. Additional tools include a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and stitch markers (listed as optional) to help track pattern repeats and size increases.

Gauge and Fit

The pattern specifies a gauge of 32 stitches and 48 rounds per 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper sock fit, as the three sizes depend on maintaining this tension throughout construction. Knitters should swatch before beginning to ensure their needles and yarn tension will produce socks that fit the intended foot circumference.