Emmer Wheat Socks

Emmer Wheat Socks by Susanna Winter

What Is Being Made

Emmer Wheat Socks are a pair of knitted socks designed by Susanna Winter, featuring a distinctive lace and cable stitch pattern inspired by sheaves of wheat at harvest time. The socks are constructed toe-up and are designed to be worked identically for both right and left feet, making them ideal for knitting two socks simultaneously. The undulating stitch pattern creates a visually striking texture that is best showcased when knit in solid or semi-solid yarn colors.

Construction and Fit

These socks utilize a gusset-and-flap heel construction method that eliminates the need to pick up stitches, streamlining the heel-turning process. The lace and cable pattern throughout the foot provides a snug, foot-hugging fit that ensures the socks stay securely in place during wear. The toe-up construction method allows knitters to try on the socks as they work and adjust the length to their preference before binding off.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Lace stitches: The pattern features delicate lace elements that create openwork sections within the design
• Cable stitches: Cable techniques are incorporated throughout the pattern to add textural depth and visual interest
• Gusset-and-flap heel: A traditional heel construction that creates durability without requiring stitch pickup
• Toe-up construction: Socks are knit beginning at the toe and working upward toward the cuff
• Two-at-a-time knitting: The pattern is designed to allow knitters to work both socks simultaneously on circular needles

Pattern Documentation

The pattern is provided in both written and charted instruction formats, accommodating different knitting preferences. Instructions are written using both metric and US terminology, making the pattern accessible to international knitters. The charted instructions are particularly useful for following the complex lace and cable stitch patterns.

Materials and Yarn

Emmer Wheat Socks are designed to be knit in 4-ply weight yarn. The recommended yarn is iKKe BFL Sock, which is composed of 75% BFL wool and 25% nylon, providing durability and elasticity. One skein of approximately 425 meters per 100 grams is required to complete the pair. The sample socks shown in the pattern are knit in the iKKe BFL Sock colorway Magna Carta. The nylon content in the yarn blend adds reinforcement to high-wear areas, extending the life of the finished socks.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 30 stitches by 46 rounds over 10 centimeters (4 inches) when measured in the Emmer Wheat Lace stitch pattern. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the proper fit, as the lace and cable patterns are gauge-dependent.

Difficulty Level

Emmer Wheat Socks are rated as an intermediate difficulty project. Knitters should have experience with lace knitting, cable stitches, and sock construction techniques before attempting this pattern. Familiarity with toe-up sock construction and reading both written and charted instructions is recommended.