Tendril socks

Tendril Socks by Jacqui Harding

Project Overview

Tendril Socks are an advanced knitting pattern designed by Jacqui Harding, featuring elegant toe-up construction with decorative lace and cable detailing. These socks combine functional design with visually interesting stitch work, making them suitable for experienced knitters seeking a sophisticated sock project.

What Is Being Made

A pair of knitted socks worked from the toe upward, available in three sizes: Small (6" / 15cm diameter), Medium (7" / 17.5cm diameter), and Large (8" / 20cm diameter) unstretched. The socks feature an adjustable length, with the pattern sample shown on a size Large with a 9.5" wide foot. These are full-length socks designed for everyday wear with custom fit options.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Toe-up construction: Socks are initiated at the toe and worked toward the cuff, allowing for precise fit and length customization
• Magic loop or two circular needle methods: The pattern accommodates both techniques to eliminate needle changes in the center of charted lace sections
• Garter stitch heel: A comfortable and straightforward heel construction that provides durability and ease of execution
• Lace panel integration: Decorative leaf lace motifs are incorporated into the sock body
• Twisted cable cuff: The lace panel transitions into a twisted cable cuff that serves both functional and aesthetic purposes

Stitches and Stitch Details

• Stocking stitch: The primary fabric base, worked at a tension of 36 stitches and 40 rows per 10cm
• Garter stitch: Used for heel construction to create a textured, durable section
• Leaf lace: Charted lace pattern featuring decorative leaf motifs
• Mini twisted cables: Frame the lace panel with 1/1RC (right cross) cable stitches
• Twisted cable cuff: Extends from the lace panel to the top of the sock, combining twisted cable stitches with functional ribbing
• 1/1RC stitch note: Work next two stitches as if to knit two together, but before removing stitches from needle, insert needle into the first stitch on left-hand needle and knit. Take both stitches off needle together

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: Skein Queen Blush, a luxury blend of 80% merino wool and 20% cashmere, providing softness and warmth. One skein contains 435 yards per 100 grams. The pattern accommodates both 3-ply and 4-ply yarn weights, offering flexibility in yarn selection while maintaining the intended fabric characteristics.

Needles: 2.5mm long circular needle(s) or size required to achieve specified tension. The pattern is designed for either magic loop technique using one long circular needle or two circular needles, depending on knitter preference.

Notions: Three stitch markers are required to track pattern repeats and construction sections throughout the sock.

Pattern Difficulty and Suitability

This pattern is classified as advanced, appropriate for experienced knitters with solid foundational skills in sock construction, lace knitting, and cable techniques. The combination of charted lace, twisted cables, and toe-up construction requires attention to detail and familiarity with reading stitch patterns and managing multiple techniques simultaneously.