Alternate Steps socks

Alternate Steps Socks by Babushka

What is Being Made

The Alternate Steps socks are a women's medium foot design with approximately 20cm circumference, created using the knitting craft. This downloadable PDF pattern is offered free by independent designer Babushka and is suitable for advanced knitters seeking a challenging sock project.

Yarn and Materials

This sock pattern requires 4 ply sock yarn with a total yardage of approximately 400 meters. The sample shown was knitted in Regia Sock yarn, Shade 5025 – Papillion. Knitters will need four 2.25 – 2.75 mm double pointed needles to complete the project. Needle size should be adjusted as needed to achieve the correct gauge for proper fit.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 30 stitches by 42 rows over 10cm (4 inches) in stocking stitch pattern. Achieving this gauge is essential for creating socks that fit the women's medium foot size with the intended 20cm circumference.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Alternate Steps pattern employs advanced knitting techniques appropriate for experienced sock makers. Key stitches and techniques used throughout the pattern include:

• Knit stitch (k) – the fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl stitch (p) – used in combination with knit stitches to create texture and pattern variation
• Slip stitch (sl) – executed purlwise by inserting the right needle into the front of the first stitch on the left needle from right to left, then transferring the stitch without knitting it
• Yarn forward (yf) – bringing the yarn to the front of the work to create openings and lace effects
• Decrease stitches (2tog) – reducing stitch count by knitting or purling two stitches together
• Slip, slip, knit (ssk) – an advanced decrease technique where two stitches are slipped knitwise individually onto the right needle, then the left needle is inserted through the front of these stitches and they are knitted together
• Stocking stitch pattern – the primary fabric structure used to achieve the specified gauge

The pattern notation uses N to denote needles and st(s) for stitch or stitches, with specific instructions regarding stitch distribution across each of the four double pointed needles. The combination of these techniques creates the distinctive "alternate steps" design characteristic of this advanced sock pattern.