Bobbled Cable Socks

Bobbled Cable Socks by BiggerthanlifeKnits

What Is Being Made

The Bobbled Cable Socks are a pair of top-down knitted socks designed by Noma Ndlovu. This pattern creates socks with a foot circumference available in two sizes: Size 1 at 8" (20.5cm) and Size 2 at 8.5" (21.5cm). The socks feature an interesting combination of cable and ribbing techniques that create visual texture while remaining quick to knit.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

These socks are knit from the top down, a popular method that allows knitters to try on the socks as they progress and easily customize the foot length. The pattern combines cable knitting with ribbing to create an easy yet visually interesting design suitable for intermediate knitters. The construction uses circular needles in the round, which is the standard technique for seamless sock knitting.

Stitches Used

The Bobbled Cable Socks incorporate several fundamental knitting stitches:

• Knit stitch (K) – the basic foundation stitch
• Purl stitch (P) – used in ribbing and textural elements
• Slip stitch (Sl) – used to move stitches without working them
• Cable stitches – created using the 1/1LPC (slip 1 stitch onto cable needle and hold in front, purl 1, then knit 1 from cable needle) technique to produce the characteristic twisted cable texture
• Stockinette stitch – the base stitch used for gauge measurement

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Bobbled Cable Socks pattern calls for DK weight yarn, which is a light worsted weight that allows for relatively quick project completion. The recommended yarn is African Expressions – Freedom in Colour 5008, a blend of 75% Wool and 25% Acrylic. The pattern requires 3 balls (50g each, 109 yards/100m per ball) for Size 1 and 4 balls for Size 2, providing approximately 327-436 yards of yarn depending on size.

Needles and Notions

Knitters will need US 3 (3.25mm) circular needles measuring 24" (60cm) long for working these socks in the round. Additional supplies include a yarn needle for weaving in ends and 3 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and construction points.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 25 stitches and 36 rounds to 4" (10cm) in Stockinette stitch on US 3 (3.25mm) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for socks to fit properly, as even small variations can affect the final foot circumference.

Difficulty Level

Rated as an intermediate pattern, the Bobbled Cable Socks are suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic techniques. The combination of cables and ribbing requires familiarity with cable needle work and reading knitting patterns, though the overall construction remains straightforward with top-down sock knitting fundamentals.