Trellis socks

Trellis Socks by Katya Frankel

What Is Being Made

Trellis socks are a pair of calf-height socks worked from the cuff down using the knitting technique. The design features decorative cable stitches arranged on a smooth Stocking stitch background, creating an elegant trellis pattern. The pattern is available in two sizes, with finished foot circumferences of 7¾ inches (19.5 cm) for the smaller size and 9½ inches (24 cm) for the larger size.

Knitting Techniques

This intermediate-level project incorporates several essential sock knitting techniques. The socks are worked in the round, which is the standard method for creating seamless, tubular sock fabric. The pattern requires knitters to be comfortable with cable stitches, which involve crossing groups of stitches over one another to create the dimensional trellis motif. Additional techniques include knit and purl stitches to form the textured pattern, along with simple increases and decreases for shaping the sock structure. The pattern also covers basic finishing techniques to complete the socks professionally.

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch (St St) – the smooth, classic background fabric
• Cable stitches – advanced stitch technique that creates the raised trellis design
• Knit stitches – fundamental stitch for fabric construction
• Purl stitches – used in combination with knit stitches for texture and pattern definition
• Increases and decreases – shaping techniques for proper sock fit

Materials and Gauge

The pattern accommodates two different yarn weights to achieve the two sizes. For the smaller size, use Fingering weight yarn such as The Unique Sheep Verve (100% Superwash Merino Wool; 400 yards / 360 meters / 100 grams), with 1 skein required. The example shown uses the Turquoise colorway. For the larger size, substitute DK weight sock yarn such as Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks that Rock Mediumweight.

Gauge is critical for proper sock fit and varies by size and stitch pattern. For the smaller size, work to 17 stitches and 22 rounds equals 2 inches (5 cm) in Stocking stitch, or 21 stitches and 25 rounds equals 2 inches (5 cm) in the Trellis cable pattern. For the larger size, achieve 14 stitches and 20 rounds equals 2 inches (5 cm) in Stocking stitch, or 19 stitches and 22 rounds equals 2 inches (5 cm) in the Trellis pattern. Knitters should adjust needle size as needed to match the specified gauge.

Difficulty Level

Trellis socks are rated as intermediate with advanced cables. While the foundational techniques—knitting, purling, and working in the round—are accessible to intermediate knitters, the cable work elevates the project beyond a basic sock pattern. This design is well-suited for knitters who have completed simpler sock projects and are ready to tackle more complex stitch patterns.