My Favorite Shortie

My Favorite Shortie Socks by Katie Cannon Designs

Project Overview

My Favorite Shortie is an intermediate-level knitted sock pattern designed by Katie Cannon. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating custom-fitted socks in seven different sizes, ranging from XS to XL, making it suitable for various foot circumferences and wearer preferences.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a pair of knitted socks designed to fit snugly on the foot. The socks are constructed to be adjustable in length, allowing knitters to customize the finished garment to suit the specific wearer. The sizing system is based on foot circumference rather than length, giving crafters flexibility in the final fit. The pattern recommends incorporating 1-2 inches (2.5-5cm) of negative ease to achieve a snug fit that prevents bagginess while accounting for the natural stretching that occurs with regular wear and washing.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

My Favorite Shortie employs the magic loop method for sock construction, a popular technique that allows knitters to work in the round using a single long circular needle rather than traditional double-pointed needles. This method reduces the number of needles required and can help prevent the common problem of laddering (loose stitches) at needle transitions.

The pattern is worked in stockinette stitch, which creates the smooth, classic fabric typically seen in everyday socks. Stockinette stitch is formed by alternating knit and purl rows when working flat, or by knitting every round when working in the round as with this pattern.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for 100g of sock yarn with a yardage of approximately 365-400 meters (400-440 yards). The sample sock featured in the pattern was knitted using Bad Sheep Yarn in the Mermaid Dreams colorway, which is a 75% Superwash Merino and 25% Nylon blend. This fiber composition provides durability, softness, and easy care properties ideal for socks that will be frequently washed.

The yarn weight specified is 3-ply or 4-ply, which are lightweight yarns commonly used for sock knitting. These weights create a fabric with appropriate thickness and elasticity for comfortable, well-fitting socks.

Needles and Tools

Knitters will need 2.5mm to 2.75mm needles (US sizes 1.5 or 2) configured as a long circular needle measuring 32 inches (80cm) for the magic loop technique. This needle size works in conjunction with the specified yarn weight to achieve the correct gauge.

While optional, the pattern suggests using a progress keeper to track row count. The designer notes using light bulb safety pins for this purpose, though any progress-tracking method works equally well for monitoring advancement through the pattern.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked at a gauge of approximately 8 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper sock fit, as variations can result in socks that are too loose or too tight.

Seven size options are provided: XS, S, S/M, M, M/L, L, and XL. Since sizing is determined by foot circumference rather than foot length, knitters have the freedom to adjust the leg and foot length as needed to accommodate the specific wearer, making this pattern versatile for different body types and preferences.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, My Favorite Shortie assumes knitters have foundational skills in knitting and are comfortable working in the round. The magic loop method and sock construction techniques require some experience, making this pattern suitable for knitters who have completed basic projects and are ready to expand their skills into garment construction.