Ribbed and Stocking Stitch Socks in Hayfield Illusion DK - 7935 - Downloadable PDF

Hayfield Illusion DK Ribbed and Stocking Stitch Socks – Pattern 7935

This intermediate-level knitting pattern from Hayfield presents four distinct adult sock designs, all worked in the beautifully variegated Hayfield Illusion DK yarn. The collection covers full-length socks and ankle socks in both stocking stitch and ribbed variations, making it a versatile pattern set for knitters who want to explore different textures and sock styles. Each design is sized to fit both women and men, offering a practical and stylish addition to any handknitted wardrobe.

The Four Designs at a Glance

The pattern is divided into four numbered designs, each worked in a different shade of Hayfield Illusion DK and each offering its own distinct aesthetic. All four designs share the same sizing framework, fitting women's shoe sizes 4–6½ and men's shoe sizes 7–11, with adjustable foot lengths.

Design 1 – Stocking Stitch Socks

The first design produces a classic full-length sock worked predominantly in stocking stitch, creating a smooth, elegant fabric that allows the tonal colour changes of Hayfield Illusion DK shade 308 to take centre stage. Stocking stitch is formed by alternating knit and purl rounds when working in the round, resulting in a flat, stretchy fabric that sits neatly against the foot and leg.

• Leg length (to top of heel): 25 cm (9¾ in) for women / 28 cm (11 in) for men
• Foot length: 22 cm (8¾ in) for women / 24 cm (9½ in) for men – adjustable
• Yarn: Hayfield Illusion DK shade 308 – 1 ball for women, 2 balls for men (100g balls)

Design 2 – Ribbed Socks

The second design offers a full-length sock with a ribbed construction throughout the leg. Ribbing is created by alternating knit and purl stitches within each round, producing a deeply textured, highly elastic fabric that clings to the leg and provides an excellent fit without the need for additional shaping. This makes ribbed socks particularly comfortable and long-wearing.

• Leg length (to top of heel): 25 cm (9¾ in) for women / 28 cm (11 in) for men
• Foot length: 22 cm (8¾ in) for women / 24 cm (9½ in) for men – adjustable
• Yarn: Hayfield Illusion DK shade 309 – 1 ball for women, 2 balls for men (100g balls)

Design 3 – Stocking Stitch Ankle Socks

Design 3 is a shorter, ankle-length version of the stocking stitch sock. The reduced leg length makes this a quicker knit and a great option for warmer weather or for wearing with trainers and casual footwear. The smooth stocking stitch fabric again showcases the gradient or variegated colour effects of Hayfield Illusion DK shade 307. The pattern notes indicate the leg length measurement excludes any turnback cuff.

• Leg length (to top of heel, not including turnback): 22 cm (8¾ in) for women / 24 cm (9½ in) for men
• Foot length: 22 cm (8¾ in) for women / 24 cm (9½ in) for men – adjustable
• Yarn: Hayfield Illusion DK shade 307 – 1 ball for women, 2 balls for men (100g balls)

Design 4 – Ribbed Ankle Socks

The fourth and final design combines the shorter ankle sock silhouette with an all-over ribbed texture. This is the most compact design in the collection, with the shortest leg length of all four styles. Like Design 3, the leg length measurement excludes any turnback cuff. The ribbing provides excellent stretch and recovery, making these ankle socks a snug and practical everyday choice.