Boldly Go

Boldly Go Socks by Corrine Walcher

What is Being Made

Boldly Go is an intermediate-level sock pattern designed by Corrine Walcher that challenges knitters to master advanced cable techniques. These socks feature offset cables throughout the leg, combined with traditional heel and toe construction. The pattern is available in three sizes: Small (7" around unstretched), Medium (8" around unstretched), and Large (9" around unstretched).

Techniques Used

This sock pattern introduces knitters to offset cable work, which requires more complex stitch manipulation than standard cables. The defining technique feature is a three-step cable shuffle rather than the typical two-step cable crossing, adding visual interest and textural depth to the finished sock. The pattern employs traditional heel construction and traditional toe shaping, making this an ideal project for intermediate knitters who have mastered basic sock anatomy but want to expand their technical skills. The socks are knit in the round, which is the standard method for seamless sock construction.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches including knit and purl stitches as the foundation. Additional stitch techniques include slip stitches (slipped as if to purl with yarn in back), purl two together decreases for shaping, and slip, slip, knit (SSK) decreases. The primary fabric base is stockinette stitch, which provides the smooth background that allows the offset cables to stand out prominently. Cable work requires a cable needle to temporarily hold stitches while crossing them over or under working stitches.

Materials

The recommended yarn is End of the Row Yarns 80/20 Sock, a blend of 80% Superwash Merino and 20% Nylon, providing durability and easy care. Each skein contains 400 yards and weighs 100 grams. The sample socks shown were knit in the colorway Island Life. The pattern calls for 3-ply or 4-ply yarn weight, which is standard for sock knitting. Needles required include either a set of 5 double-pointed needles size 2 US (2.75 mm) or two circular needles in the same size, with the option to adjust needle size to achieve proper gauge. A cable needle is essential for executing the three-step cable shuffles throughout the pattern. The recommended gauge is 8 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch, knit in the round.