Twisted Cable Sock

Twisted Cable Sock by Ailsa Graham

What is Being Made

The Twisted Cable Sock is an advanced-level knitted sock pattern designed by Ailsa Graham. This project creates a fitted sock in UK size 6, with adjustable sizing options to accommodate different foot measurements. The sock features a distinctive twisted cable motif on the instep, combined with stockinette stitch on the sole, creating both visual interest and functional structure.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs several advanced knitting techniques that make it suitable for experienced knitters. The sock begins with Judy's magic cast on, a method that creates a seamless toe by casting on stitches across two needles simultaneously. The construction uses increase rounds to shape the toe section, with make-one increases (M1) placed strategically to create a symmetrical expansion from 24 stitches to 60 stitches.

The foot section incorporates chart-based colorwork or cable pattern work on the instep, requiring knitters to follow a detailed instep chart while maintaining stockinette stitch on the sole. The heel is constructed using the short-row heel method with wrap and turn (W+T) technique, a method that creates a fitted, anatomically shaped heel without requiring a separate heel flap. This technique involves wrapping stitches and turning the work mid-row to create gradual shaping, then picking up wraps and knitting them together with their corresponding stitches to close gaps and maintain stitch integrity.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (K) – the foundational stitch used throughout the sock
• Purl stitch (P) – used during the heel short-row shaping
• Make-one increase (M1) – used to increase stitches during toe shaping
• Stockinette stitch (st st) – the primary stitch pattern for the sole
• Cable stitches – incorporated in the instep chart pattern
• Wrap and turn (W+T) – used during heel construction to create short rows

Materials and Yarn Weight

The Twisted Cable Sock pattern is compatible with multiple yarn weights, including 3-ply, 4-ply, and lace-weight yarns, allowing knitters flexibility in fiber selection. The pattern recommends 100g of Malabrigo sock yarn or other tight twist sock yarn as the primary material choice. Tight twist yarns are ideal for sock knitting because they provide durability and elasticity, essential qualities for a garment that experiences regular wear and washing.

The pattern calls for 4 double-pointed needles in 2.25mm size, or the appropriate needle size needed to achieve the specified tension of 19 stitches and 27 rows over a 5cm by 5cm tension square. Achieving correct gauge is critical for proper sock fit, particularly in the circumference and length measurements. Double-pointed needles allow for seamless, circular knitting in the round, eliminating the need for seaming and creating a more comfortable finished sock.

Pattern Structure and Sizing

The sock is designed in three main sections: the toe, foot, and heel. The toe section uses increases to expand from the initial 24 cast-on stitches to 60 stitches, creating a comfortable fit. The foot section extends for 31 rounds following the instep chart, with the option to repeat the chart once more or continue until the sock reaches approximately 4cm less than the desired finished length. This measurement-based approach allows knitters to customize the sock length for different wearers. The heel section uses short-row shaping to create a fitted, three-dimensional heel cup that conforms to the foot's anatomy.