Virginia

Virginia Socks by Melissa Metzbower

Project Overview

Virginia is an intermediate-level knitted sock pattern inspired by the state's tourism slogan "Virginia is for Lovers." This design celebrates Virginia's diverse attractions—from apple orchards to coastal beaches to mountain vistas—through a charming combination of heart motifs and delicate lace detailing.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a pair of women's socks available in three sizes: Small (US women's sizes 5–8), Medium (US women's sizes 8.5–9.5), and Large (US women's sizes 10+). The finished sock circumference ranges from 7½ inches (19 cm) for size Small to 8½ inches (21.7 cm) for size Large, making these socks a comfortable fit for a range of foot sizes.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs several intermediate knitting techniques to create its distinctive appearance:

• Knitting in the round: The socks are constructed circularly, which creates seamless, tubular fabric ideal for sock construction
• Provisional cast-on: The pattern uses a provisional cast-on method worked with a crochet hook and waste yarn, allowing for a flexible, reversible edge that can be grafted later or used for a two-way stretchy opening
• Lace inserts: Simple lace patterning is incorporated throughout the design, adding visual interest and breathability to the sock fabric
• Heart motifs: Decorative heart shapes are knitted into the pattern, reflecting the "Virginia is for Lovers" theme
• Stockinette stitch: The primary stitch structure, worked in the round, creates the smooth, classic sock fabric

Stitches and Stitch Details

The foundation of Virginia socks is stockinette stitch worked in the round, which produces a smooth, refined surface perfect for showcasing the heart and lace pattern elements. The gauge is 30 stitches by 44 rows over a 4-inch (10 cm) square in stockinette stitch knit in the round, ensuring proper fit and fabric drape. The provisional cast-on technique requires picking up stitches along a crocheted chain foundation, with at least 72 stitches cast on to accommodate the three size options.

Materials and Yarn

Virginia socks are designed to be knitted with Smooshy by Dream in Color, a high-quality yarn blend consisting of 85% merino wool and 15% nylon. One skein provides 450 yards (411 meters) of yarn, which is sufficient to complete a pair of socks in any of the three sizes. The yarn is available in the colorway Kettle Dyed Pinky, a hand-dyed option that adds unique character to each pair. The nylon content in this yarn blend enhances durability and elasticity, making it well-suited for the wear and tear of sock knitting.

Needles and Tools

The pattern requires circular needles appropriate for the 4-ply yarn weight and the sock's circumference. Additionally, a crochet hook is needed to work the provisional cast-on using waste yarn, which serves as a temporary foundation for picking up the initial stitches.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as Intermediate, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle more complex stitch patterns, provisional cast-ons, and the coordination required for knitting in the round. The combination of lace work and heart motifs requires attention to stitch counts and pattern repeats, but the techniques are well within reach for experienced beginners and intermediate crafters.