Ribbed Rope Socks

Ribbed Rope Socks by Redtiger

What is Being Made

The Ribbed Rope Socks are an advanced-level knitted sock pattern designed by Cynthia Levy and published by independent designer Redtiger. This is a downloadable PDF pattern that creates a pair of socks featuring intricate cable and twisted stitch detailing. The pattern is best suited for experienced knitters due to the complexity of its cable work and structural considerations.

Techniques Used

This sock pattern employs several advanced knitting techniques to achieve its distinctive appearance. The primary construction method involves twisted stitches combined with delicate cables, which create visual texture and depth throughout the sock. The pattern incorporates cable work that requires careful attention to stitch manipulation and cable crossing. A notable technical consideration is that the twisted stitch cables cause noticeable draw-in of the knitted fabric, requiring the pattern to use additional stitches in patterned areas to compensate for the difference in gauge between cable sections and stockinette sections. This compensation ensures the finished socks maintain proper fit and structure despite the varying stitch densities.

Stitches Used

The Ribbed Rope Socks pattern utilizes the following stitch techniques:

• Stockinette stitch – used as the base fabric in non-patterned areas
• Twisted stitches – incorporated into the cable design for textural interest
• Cable stitches – the signature element creating the rope-like ribbed pattern

The gauge for this pattern is 7 stitches and 9 rounds per 1 inch in stockinette stitch when worked on 3.25 mm needles, providing a reference point for tension and fit.

Materials Required

Yarn: The pattern requires 370 yards of fingering weight yarn. The sample socks shown in the pattern were knitted using Louet Gems Super Fine/Fingering Weight yarn in the Champagne colorway. Solid color yarns are recommended for this pattern to ensure that the cable and twisted stitch details are clearly visible and not obscured by color variation or stitch definition issues.

Needles: This pattern is worked on double point needles in the following sizes: 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm, and 3.25 mm. The 3.25 mm needles are used for the gauge measurement and primary construction. A small cable needle is also required for managing cable stitches during construction.

The pattern was originally published October 14, 2010, and revised September 1, 2020, ensuring that the instructions reflect current knitting standards and techniques.