Skallvik Socken 38/39

Skallvik Socken 38/39 by Lady Knitalot

What is Being Made

The Skallvik Socken 38/39 is a pair of knitted socks designed for shoe sizes 38/39. This downloadable knitting pattern from independent designer Lady Knitalot features a decorative heart motif integrated into the sock design, making them both functional and visually appealing everyday wear.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental sock-knitting techniques. The socks are constructed using the magic loop method or double-pointed needles, worked in the round from the cuff downward. The pattern incorporates increases and decreases as shaping methods throughout the construction.

For increases, the pattern uses the bar increase technique: the knitter works into the same stitch twice—first knitting it normally, then re-entering the same stitch from the back loop before slipping it off the needle. This creates two stitches from one, a method that produces a visible horizontal bar and is commonly used in sock shaping.

For decreases, the pattern employs the slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over (SKPO) method. This involves slipping one stitch, knitting the next stitch, then passing the slipped stitch over the knitted stitch—similar to the bind-off technique. This decrease method creates a neat, left-leaning decrease line.

The socks are primarily worked in stockinette stitch (glatt rechts), which creates the smooth, classic knit fabric, except where pattern stitches are specified.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Skallvik Socken features two primary stitch patterns:

• Ribbed Cuff (Bündchenmuster): An alternating 2x2 rib pattern, created by alternating 2 knit stitches and 2 purl stitches. This elastic ribbing provides stretch and helps the socks stay in place on the leg.
• Heart Motif (Herzmuster): A decorative heart pattern worked from a provided stitch chart. The chart shows all pattern rows and begins at the center back of the sock on needle 1. This motif adds visual interest to the sock design while the surrounding fabric remains in stockinette stitch.

Materials and Tools

The pattern calls for Lana Grossa Meilenweit yarn, a popular German sock yarn brand, in two colors: black and white. Each color requires 50 grams of yarn. Meilenweit is a high-quality wool-blend sock yarn designed specifically for sock knitting, offering durability and elasticity.

Essential tools include 2.5mm double-pointed needles (Nadelspiel) for working the socks in the round, scissors, a measuring tape for checking gauge and fit, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and any seaming if needed.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 10 x 10 cm = 40 rows x 28 stitches when worked on 2.5mm needles with the Lana Grossa Meilenweit yarn. Achieving this gauge is essential for proper sock fit at size 38/39. Knitters should always knit a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure accurate sizing.