Etchings socks

Etchings Socks by Ashley Knowlton

What is Being Made

Etchings Socks are an elegant pair of knitted socks designed by Ashley Knowlton. The socks feature a sophisticated visual aesthetic reminiscent of etchings in jade, combining decorative patterning with functional construction. These socks are designed as a one-size project that stretches to fit most sizes, making them versatile for gifting or personal wear.

Finished Measurements

• Leg circumference (relaxed): 6 inches / 15.25 centimeters
• Leg circumference (stretched): 9 inches / 23 centimeters
• Length from cast on to beginning of heel flap: 4.5 inches / 11.5 centimeters

Knitting Techniques

Etchings Socks employ Magic Loop Method or small circumference circular knitting techniques, allowing knitters to work in the round on either one long circular needle or a set of double-pointed needles. The pattern includes specialized techniques such as Draw 3 and Draw 4, which may require the use of a crochet hook to assist with pulling loops through stitches, particularly when working across different needles in the Magic Loop Method. These techniques create the distinctive etched visual effect while maintaining the structural integrity of the sock.

Stitches Used

The sock construction combines stockinette stitch with a specialized Leg Chart Pattern. The chart pattern creates the decorative etching-inspired design on the leg of the sock, while stockinette stitch provides the foundational structure. The inclusion of Draw stitches adds textural and visual complexity to the finished piece.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Handmaiden Casbah yarn in the colorway Peridot (silver-gray). This yarn is composed of 80% Merino, 10% Cashmere, and 10% Nylon, providing a blend of softness, durability, and elasticity. One skein of 355 yards / 325 meters per 100 grams is required for completion. The yarn weight is 4-ply, suitable for fine-gauge sock knitting.

Needles and Notions

• One pair US 1.5 (2.5mm) circular needles, minimum 40 inches / 100 centimeters long for Magic Loop Method, or
• Set of five US 1.5 (2.5mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs)
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Stitch marker(s) to track pattern repeats and round beginnings
• Crochet hook (optional, recommended for assisting with Draw stitches)

Gauge

Achieving proper gauge is essential for sock fit. The pattern specifies 38 stitches and 37 rounds equals 4 inches / 10 centimeters in relaxed state when working the Leg Chart Pattern on US 1.5 (2.5mm) needles. For reference, 28 stitches and 37 rounds equals 4 inches / 10 centimeters in stockinette stitch on the same needle size. Gauge swatching before beginning the project ensures the finished socks will stretch appropriately and maintain their intended dimensions.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, Etchings Socks are described as deceptively easy-to-knit despite their elegant appearance. The pattern is designed as a quick knit, making it suitable for knitters with foundational sock-knitting experience who are ready to explore decorative stitch techniques and specialized methods like Draw stitches.