Socks for Travelling Through Space And Time

Socks for Travelling Through Space and Time by Kate Atherley

What is Being Made

This knitting pattern creates a pair of knee-length socks with the option to make two pairs of calf-length socks instead, depending on your preference and yarn management. The design is worked from the toe upward and features coordinating stripes that complement a matching scarf. The pattern is versatile enough to accommodate different sock lengths while using the same yardage provided in the kit.

Knitting Techniques

The pattern employs several intermediate-level knitting techniques to create a polished finished product. A clever faux seam is incorporated into the design, which serves a dual purpose: it hides the color jog that naturally occurs when changing colors in striped knitting, and it can also disguise any ladders (loose stitches) that may develop during the knitting process. This technique adds both visual interest and practical problem-solving to the sock construction.

The socks are worked using a toe-up construction method, which allows knitters to try on the socks as they progress and adjust the length to their preference before binding off at the cuff. This approach is particularly useful for creating a custom fit.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

While the pattern focuses on fundamental sock construction, it incorporates striped colorwork throughout. The stripe changes are managed with the faux seam technique, which requires attention to stitch placement and color transitions. The pattern is suitable for knitters watching television, indicating that the stitch work is rhythmic and doesn't require constant pattern consultation once established.

Needle and Tool Options

The pattern offers flexibility in needle choice to accommodate different knitting preferences. Knitters can work the socks using one of three methods:

• Double-pointed needles (DPNs)
• Magic Loop method with a long circular needle
• Two circular needles

All needle options are US 1.5/2.5 mm size. Additionally, a B-1/2.25 mm crochet hook is included in the kit, likely for provisional cast-on or finishing techniques.

Materials and Yarn

The pattern uses Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock yarn in mini-skeins, which contain 80% superwash merino wool and 20% nylon. Each mini-skein provides 215 yards per 50 grams. The kit includes one mini-skein each in six coordinating colors: Grapevine, Fjord, Harvest, Silence, Natural, and Poppy. These colors are selected to coordinate with a matching scarf design.

The kit's mini-skeins are non-standard sizing; you only need approximately half of a standard skein in each color, making this an efficient use of yarn. The superwash merino and nylon blend provides durability, elasticity, and easy care—important qualities for socks that will experience regular wear and washing.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic sock construction and are ready to tackle color techniques and specialized stitch methods like the faux seam. The toe-up construction and multiple needle options provide flexibility for knitters at different skill levels within the intermediate range.