Product Description
Before living in California, I had never seen or tasted a Cherry Plum. This series of patterns was inspired by the cherry plum tree in my front yard and its abundance of fruit.
This sock design is worked cuff-down using magic loop, with a flap and gusset heel, using a Square heel turn.
Cherry Plum Socks by Fitzhenry Knits
Project Overview
Cherry Plum Socks is a downloadable knitting pattern for fingering weight socks designed by Fitzhenry Knits. Despite being labeled as easy skill level in the pattern document, this design is classified as advanced difficulty, making it suitable for experienced knitters seeking a refined sock construction project. The pattern was inspired by cherry plum trees and creates finished socks with a foot circumference of 7.25 inches (18.5 cm).
Construction Method and Techniques
These socks are worked using the cuff-down construction method, a popular approach that allows knitters to begin at the leg and work downward toward the foot. The pattern employs the magic loop technique for working small circumferences in the round without requiring double-pointed needles, providing modern convenience and reducing the risk of dropped stitches.
The heel construction features a flap and gusset heel with a Square heel turn. This traditional heel method creates a structured, durable heel that provides excellent fit and longevity. The flap is worked back and forth in rows, while the gusset decreases are worked in the round, creating a seamless transition from leg to foot.
Stitches and Stitch Patterns
The leg section begins with K1, P1 ribbing worked for 18 rounds, creating an elastic cuff that holds the socks securely on the leg. The main body of the sock is worked in stockinette stitch, the foundational knit stitch pattern that creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for sock construction. Stockinette provides excellent drape and comfort against the skin while showcasing the yarn's color and texture.
Materials and Yarn Specifications
Cherry Plum Socks requires approximately 462 yards of 4-ply fingering weight yarn weighing 100 grams. The pattern recommends Knit Picks Stroll Fingering Yarn or any comparable yarn meeting these specifications: 75% fine superwash merino wool and 25% nylon in fingering weight. The nylon content provides durability and elasticity, while the merino wool offers softness and temperature regulation—essential qualities for comfortable everyday socks.
Tools and Equipment
Knitters will need the following tools to complete this project:
- 2.25mm US #1 circular needles, 32 inches or longer for magic loop technique
- Cable needle for any cable stitch work within the pattern
- 5 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and marking the beginning of round
Gauge and Fit
The pattern is worked at a gauge of 32 stitches and 46 rounds over 4x4 inches (10x10 cm) in stockinette stitch using 2.25mm needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper sock fit, as even small variations can affect the final circumference and length. Knitters should knit a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure their finished socks will fit as intended.
```Specifications
| Brand: | Independent Designer |
| Yarn Weight: | 4 Ply |
| Pages: | 0 |
| Designer: | Fitzhenry Knits |
| Craft: | Knitting |
| Format: | Downloadable PDF |
| Languages: | English |
| Number of Patterns: | 1 |
| Skill Level: | Advanced |
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