Lyracystis

Lyracystis Socks by Mary Hough

What is Being Made

Lyracystis Socks is an advanced knitting pattern designed by Mary Hough for creating a pair of women's medium socks using the toe-up construction method. This downloadable PDF pattern features a charted stitch pattern worked across the top of the foot and leg, creating a sophisticated design suitable for experienced knitters.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs several advanced knitting techniques that make it suitable for experienced crafters. The sock begins with Judy's Magic Cast On, a specialized technique for creating a seamless toe foundation. The pattern utilizes toe-up construction, which allows knitters to try on the sock as it progresses and adjust fit before completing the leg. The charted pattern on the foot and leg requires careful attention to stitch placement and pattern reading. Additionally, the pattern includes guidance on fit adjustments and references to various techniques documented on pages 7 and 8 of the PDF.

Stitches Used

The Lyracystis pattern incorporates a range of fundamental and decorative knitting stitches:

• K (Knit) - the basic knit stitch
• P (Purl) - the basic purl stitch
• Sl (Slip) - slipping stitches for pattern work
• K2T (Knit 2 Together) - a right-leaning decrease
• P2T (Purl 2 Together) - a purl decrease
• SSK (Slip, Slip, Knit) - a left-leaning decrease worked by slipping both stitches knitwise to the right needle, then knitting them together through the back loops
• YO (Yarn Over) - an eyelet increase that creates decorative openings
• M1 (Make 1) - an invisible increase
• KB (Knit through the Back Loop) - a twisted knit stitch

The combination of decreases and yarn overs suggests the charted pattern likely features lace or textured elements typical of advanced sock designs.

Materials

Creating the Lyracystis Socks requires 1 skein of fingering weight yarn with approximately 400 yards of yardage. The designer used Saffron Dyeworks Fresco in the colorway "Blue Circe" for the sample. Knitters will need 2.25 mm needles (US size 1), or the size necessary to achieve the required gauge. Additional supplies include stitch markers and a tapestry needle for finishing.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is designed for women's medium size. The charted pattern requires a gauge of 8 to 9 stitches and 11 to 12 rows per inch when worked in the stitch pattern. The designer notes that she knits very tightly and that other knitters may prefer a looser gauge. Because the stitch pattern is integral to the sock's design, size adjustments must be made by modifying the gauge rather than changing stitch counts. The PDF includes suggestions on pages 7 and 8 for improving sock fit and references to techniques used throughout the pattern.