Scott Base

Scott Base Socks by Sarah Ronchetti

What is Being Made

Scott Base Socks is a downloadable knitting pattern for textured socks designed by Sarah Ronchetti. The pattern is inspired by Antarctic mountain photography and named after the New Zealand research base located in Antarctica. These socks feature a distinctive textured design with an easy-to-remember stitch repeat, making them suitable for intermediate knitters seeking a visually interesting sock project with manageable complexity.

Available Sizes

• Small: 7.5 - 8.5 inches (19 - 21.5 cm) circumference
• Medium: 9 - 10 inches (23 - 25.5 cm) circumference
• Large: 10 - 11 inches (25.5 - 28 cm) circumference

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental sock knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The construction utilizes circular needles or double-pointed needles (DPNs) to create seamless cylindrical sock fabric. The pattern incorporates stocking stitch as the primary fabric base, combined with textured stitch elements that create visual interest through strategic stitch manipulation and shaping.

Stitches and Abbreviations

• k: knit
• p: purl
• k2tog: knit 2 stitches together (a right-leaning decrease)
• ssk: slip, slip, knit – a left-leaning decrease worked by slipping 2 stitches individually as if to knit, then inserting the left needle through both stitches and knitting them together
• Skyp: slip one stitch purlwise, knit one stitch, then pass the slipped stitch over both the knit stitch and yarn forward
• Sl1: slip 1 stitch purlwise
• sm: stitch marker
• st(s): stitch(es)

Gauge and Tension

The pattern specifies a gauge of 32 stitches and 48 rows measured over 4 inches (10 centimeters) of stocking stitch. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished sock circumference and ensuring the socks fit appropriately.

Tools and Materials Required

Needles: The pattern requires US #1 / 2.25mm circular needles or double-pointed needles for the main fabric, with US #1.5 / 2.5mm circular needles or DPNs available as an alternative size if gauge adjustment is needed. The specific needle size required depends on achieving the stated gauge with your chosen yarn.

Additional Tools: One stitch marker and a darning needle are required for completing the socks.

Yarn Weight: This pattern is designed for 3-ply and 4-ply weight yarns, which are lightweight sock-appropriate yarn weights that create fine, durable fabric suitable for foot wear. These yarn weights work in combination with the specified needle sizes to achieve the required gauge and create socks with appropriate thickness and elasticity.

Pattern Characteristics

The Scott Base Socks pattern features a repeating stitch sequence that is straightforward to memorize, reducing the need for constant pattern reference during knitting. The textured design creates visual depth and interest while remaining accessible to intermediate knitters who have experience with basic decreases and stitch manipulation. The pattern's inspiration from Antarctic landscape photography translates into a sophisticated aesthetic suitable for handmade sock gifts or personal wear.