Mountain Creek Socks

Mountain Creek Socks by Maryna Radzko

What Is Being Made

Mountain Creek Socks are a pair of cuff-down knitted socks designed by Maryna Radzko. These socks feature decorative cable patterns and are worked as matching pairs, with the two socks differing only in the direction of cable crossings as indicated in the pattern charts. The design is available in multiple sizes, with sizing guidance provided to accommodate the fabric characteristics of the cable construction.

Knitting Techniques

These socks are constructed using the cuff-down method, a popular technique for sock knitting that begins at the ribbed cuff and progresses toward the toe. The pattern incorporates cable crossing techniques, where stitches are crossed in opposite directions between the left and right sock to create a mirrored design. The cables are a defining feature of these socks and require careful attention to stitch crossing directions as outlined in the pattern charts.

An important technical note: the cable stitches in this design tend to pull the fabric slightly, so Maryna Radzko recommends knitting a size with slightly more stitches than you would typically choose for your usual sock gauge. This accommodation ensures proper fit and prevents the socks from becoming too tight.

Stitches Used

• Cable crosses (worked in opposite directions for left and right socks)
• Ribbing (for the cuff)
• Stockinette stitch (for the body and leg sections)

Materials and Yarn

Mountain Creek Socks are designed for 4-ply sock yarn with a yardage range of 350–420 meters (380–460 yards) per 100 grams. The pattern has been successfully worked with multiple yarn options:

• Size L: 100% merino wool hand-dyed sock yarn (350 m / 100 g) with 2.25 mm [US 1] circular needles; 79 g used for size 39
• Size M: Knit Picks Chroma Fingering yarn (70% wool, 30% nylon, 362 m / 100 g) with 2 mm [US 0] circular needles; 69 g used for size 39

General material requirements include any quality sock yarn meeting the yardage specifications and 2–2.5 mm [US 0–1½] circular needles, at least 80 cm in length for working in the round.

Difficulty Level

Mountain Creek Socks are rated as intermediate difficulty. While basic sock knitting skills are assumed, the cable pattern work and the need to manage directional cable crosses for matching pairs require attention to detail and familiarity with cable techniques.