Socken Stairs

Socken Stairs Knitted Socks

What is Being Made

Socken Stairs is an intermediate-level knitted sock pattern designed by Ellen Hildebrandt. The pattern is primarily sized for European shoe size 42/43, with alternative measurements provided for size 40/41. These are classic pull-on socks featuring a distinctive stair-step stitch pattern that gives the design its name.

Knitting Techniques Used

This sock pattern employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques. The socks are worked in the round using a set of needles, which is the traditional method for creating seamless socks. The construction begins with a ribbed cuff worked in ribbing stitch, which provides stretch and helps the socks stay in place on the leg. The main body features the signature stair-step pattern, which creates a textured, visually interesting fabric. The pattern includes techniques such as yarn overs for decorative elements, decreases for shaping, and twisted stitches for added texture and durability.

Stitches and Abbreviations

The pattern uses standard German knitting abbreviations. Key stitches include:

• re (rechts) – knit stitch
• li (links) – purl stitch
• kraus re – garter stitch (knit on both forward and return rows)
• vs (verschränkt stricken) – twisted stitch, worked through the back loop for added texture
• U (Umschlag) – yarn over for lace elements
• zuss – knit two together (right-leaning decrease)
• übzuss – slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over (left-leaning decrease)
• bh (abheben) – slip stitch

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The pattern calls for 100 grams of 4-ply sock yarn, specifically Trekking XXL by Zitron. This yarn is composed of 75% wool and 25% polyamide, a blend that provides durability, elasticity, and easy care. The polyamide content increases the sock's resistance to wear and extends its lifespan. The recommended needle size is 2.5mm needles in a set of four (also called double-pointed needles or DPNs), which is standard for sock knitting and allows for working in the round.

Gauge and Pattern Details

The stair-step pattern is worked at a gauge of 38 stitches by 54 rows per 10 centimeters (approximately 15 stitches and 21 rows per inch). This gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished sock size. The pattern begins by casting on 64 stitches, which are then distributed evenly across the four needles and joined to work in the round. The construction starts with 14 rounds of ribbing stitch to create the cuff, establishing the elastic foundation that keeps the socks secure.

Pattern copyright Ellen Hildebrandt, March 2019. This is an independent designer pattern intended for private use only.