Simple Twists

Simple Twists Socks by Corrine Walcher

What is Being Made

Simple Twists is a downloadable knitting pattern for socks designed by Corrine Walcher. This intermediate-level sock pattern features a distinctive twisted stitch motif that runs vertically down the heel flap. The design creates a mirrored effect between the left and right sock, with twists running in one direction on one sock and the opposite direction on its pair. The finished socks are available in three sizes: Small (7 inches around unstretched), Medium (8 inches around unstretched), and Large (9 inches around unstretched).

Techniques Used

The Simple Twists pattern employs fundamental sock knitting techniques suitable for intermediate knitters. The socks are knit in the round, which is the standard construction method for seamless socks. The pattern incorporates twisted stitches as the primary decorative element, running along the heel flap to create visual interest. A key advantage of this design is its simplicity in execution—Corrine Walcher notes that there is really only one row to pay attention to during the knitting process, making these socks excellent for TV knitting, car knitting, or other situations where divided attention is necessary. The mirrored twist pattern between the two socks adds sophistication without significantly increasing difficulty.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes basic knitting abbreviations and techniques including:

• K (Knit): The fundamental knit stitch
• P (Purl): The reverse of the knit stitch
• Sl (Slip): Slipping stitches as if to purl with yarn held in back
• PM (Place Marker): Marking position points in the round
• SM (Slip Marker): Moving markers as you work
• K2tog (Knit Two Together): A right-leaning decrease
• SSK (Slip, Slip, Knit): A left-leaning decrease

The primary stitch pattern is worked in stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for showcasing both solid and variegated yarns. The twist stitches form the decorative heel flap element.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: The pattern recommends Supercraftygirl Oasis Fingering weight yarn, a high-quality blend of 75% Superwash Merino and 25% Nylon. This yarn provides 463 yards per 100 grams, making it ideal for sock knitting. The sample shown was knit in the colorway Castello a Mare. The pattern is suitable for both 3-ply and 4-ply yarn weights, offering flexibility in yarn selection. Corrine Walcher notes that these socks are particularly nice when knit in variegated yarn, as the simple twist pattern does not get lost in the color variation.

Needles: The pattern requires a set of 5 double-pointed needles (DPNs) or two circular needles in size 1 US (2.5 mm), or the size needed to obtain proper gauge. The choice between DPNs and circular needles allows knitters to use their preferred sock knitting method.

Gauge: The pattern is worked to a gauge of 8 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch, knit in the round. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished sock circumference.