Calendula

Calendula Socks by Annarita Ceretti

What is Being Made

Calendula is a downloadable knitting pattern for a pair of socks designed by independent designer Annarita Ceretti. The pattern offers two sizes with adjustable foot and leg length, making it adaptable for different wearers. Size 1 features a foot and leg circumference of 7 inches (18.5 cm), while Size 2 offers 8.5 inches (21.5 cm) circumference, allowing knitters to customize the fit for their needs.

Techniques and Construction Methods

This intermediate-level knitting project uses classic sock construction techniques. The pattern employs circular needles or double-pointed needles (DPNs) to work the sock in the round, a traditional method that creates seamless, comfortable footwear. The design utilizes a top-down approach, working from the leg down to the foot with adjustable length options. Key techniques include increases using the M1R method (picking up the horizontal bar between stitches from back to front and knitting through), as well as working on separate needles for the instep (top needle) and sole (bottom needle) sections, allowing for shaping and customization during construction.

Stitches Used

The Calendula pattern incorporates fundamental knitting stitches suitable for sock construction. The primary stitch is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for comfortable, close-fitting socks. The pattern also uses knit and purl stitches as foundational elements, along with knit through the back loop (k1tbl) for twisted stitches that add structure and prevent laddering. Increases are worked using the M1R (make 1 right) technique, which creates nearly invisible increases by picking up the horizontal bar between stitches from back to front and knitting through, maintaining the integrity of the fabric.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The pattern calls for approximately 230 to 280 meters of light fingering weight yarn, depending on size selection. The recommended yarn is Borgo de' Pazzi Bice, a durable blend of 75% wool and 25% nylon that provides both warmth and durability for socks. One 100-gram skein (420 meters) provides ample yardage for this project. Knitters should work with US 2 / 2.75 mm circular needles or double-pointed needles to achieve the required gauge of 28 stitches and 44 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch after blocking. Additional notions include 4 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and any necessary seaming.

Pattern Specifications

• Craft: Knitting
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Available Sizes: 2 (Size 1 and Size 2)
• Yarn Weight: 3-ply (Light Fingering Weight)
• Yardage Required: 230–280 meters
• Gauge: 28 stitches × 44 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch after blocking
• Format: Downloadable PDF
• Designer: Annarita Ceretti (Independent Designer)