Federal Hill

Federal Hill Socks by Corrine Walcher

What is Being Made

Federal Hill is a pair of knitted socks designed by independent designer Corrine Walcher. These socks feature a distinctive raised moss stitch diamond pattern that creates a richly textured fabric. The design is inspired by the cobblestones found in Federal Hill, a historic neighborhood. The socks are completely reversible, making them versatile for both sides of the fabric, and are suitable for men and women across all sizes.

Finished Sizes

The pattern is available in three sizes:

• Small: 7 inches around (unstretched)
• Medium: 8 inches around (unstretched)
• Large: 9 inches around (unstretched)

Techniques Used

Federal Hill employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The socks are knit in the round, which creates seamless construction. The pattern utilizes several essential decreasing and shaping techniques including knit two together (K2tog), purl two together (P2tog), and slip, slip, knit (SSK) decreases. Slipping stitches as if to purl with yarn in back is used for edge definition. Marker placement helps track pattern repeats and construction sections throughout the sock.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure features a raised moss stitch diamond pattern, which creates the textured, reversible fabric characteristic of this design. The moss stitch is a fundamental textured stitch created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a specific sequence. This stitch pattern is worked in combination with stockinette stitch, which serves as the base gauge measurement. The diamond motif adds visual interest while maintaining the reversible quality of the finished fabric.

Materials and Tools

The recommended yarn for Federal Hill is Neighborhood Fiber Company Studio Sock, a 3-ply and 4-ply weight yarn composed of 100% superwash merino wool blended with 20% nylon. Each 100-gram skein contains 400 yards of yardage, providing ample fiber for completing a pair of socks. The sample shown in the pattern was knit in the Federal Hill colorway, which reflects the cobblestone inspiration of the design.

Needles required are a set of five double-pointed needles or two circular needles in size 1 US (2.5 mm), or whatever size is necessary to achieve proper gauge. The recommended gauge is 8 stitches per inch when working stockinette stitch knit in the round.

Difficulty Level

Federal Hill is classified as an intermediate knitting project. While the construction method of knitting in the round is accessible to many knitters, the combination of textured stitch patterns, decreasing techniques, and shaping required to create properly fitting socks places this pattern at an intermediate skill level. Knitters should be comfortable with basic decreases, stitch markers, and working with multiple needles or circular needles.