The Boyfriend Socks

The Boyfriend Socks by Darling Jadore

What is Being Made

The Boyfriend Socks is a knitting pattern for creating a pair of comfortable, casual socks. This downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Darling Jadore is designed for knitters of all skill levels, making it an ideal beginner-friendly project for those new to sock construction.

Craft and Technique Overview

This pattern uses knitting as the primary craft method. The socks are constructed using double-pointed needles (DPNs), which allow for seamless knitting in the round—a fundamental technique for sock creation. The pattern incorporates several specialized knitting methods to ensure a professional finish and optimal fit.

Key Knitting Techniques and Stitches

• German Twist Cast On: The pattern uses this specific cast-on method for the cuff stitches, which provides a stretchier cuff compared to standard cast-on techniques. Knitters have the flexibility to substitute their preferred cast-on method if desired.
• Knit One Through the Back Loop (K1tbl): This stitch variation is incorporated into the pattern for specific shaping or textural elements.
• Purl-Wise (Pw) Stitches: Purling techniques are used as part of the stitch pattern construction.
• Invisible Join Method on DPNs: This technique allows knitters to join stitches in the round on double-pointed needles seamlessly, creating an invisible transition that looks professionally finished.
• Kitchener Stitch: Also known as grafting, this seaming technique is used to close the toe of the sock with an invisible seam, creating a smooth, comfortable finish at the toe box.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The pattern calls for DK weight yarn (also referred to as Light-Weight Category 3 yarn), with approximately 180 yards (164.592 meters) of total yardage needed to complete one pair of socks. The photographed sample was created using Baby Bee Sweet Delight yarn in the colorway Airplane, requiring one skein total.

Tools and Notions

• Four U.S. Size 2 (2.75mm) double-pointed knitting needles: Essential for working the socks in the round with the seamless construction method
• Tapestry needle: Used for seaming the toe shut with Kitchener Stitch and for weaving in any loose yarn ends
• Scissors: For cutting yarn

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly, making it accessible to knitters who are new to sock construction. Despite the beginner classification, the pattern teaches valuable techniques including working on DPNs, invisible joining, and professional finishing methods like Kitchener Stitch.

Pattern Format

The Boyfriend Socks pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, allowing knitters to access the instructions digitally and print them if preferred. The pattern includes helpful notes and linked supplies for convenience during the knitting process.