Vervain

Vervain Hand Knit Sock Pattern by Sachiko Burgin

What is Being Made

Vervain is a hand knit sock pattern designed by Sachiko Burgin and originally published in 52 Weeks of Socks | 52 x Villasukat by Laine Publishing in February 2020. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating a pair of fitted socks available in two sizes. The finished socks feature an adjustable foot length, making them customizable to individual measurements. Size 1 offers an ankle circumference of 20 cm (8 inches) with a leg length of 15 cm (6 inches), while Size 2 provides a larger 22.5 cm (9 inch) ankle circumference. The pattern recommends no negative ease for optimal fit.

Techniques and Construction Methods

This intermediate-level knitting pattern employs traditional sock construction techniques suitable for knitters with foundational skills. The pattern utilizes the make-one increase method (M1), which involves picking up the bar between stitches and knitting into the front loop to create new stitches without visible holes. The socks are worked on double-pointed needles, a classic method that allows for seamless, circular knitting in the round. The pattern includes stitch marker placement for tracking pattern repeats and construction stages, with both removable and fixed markers used throughout the project.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used in Vervain is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for sock construction. Stockinette stitch is achieved by alternating knit and purl rows when working flat, or by knitting every round when working in the round. The gauge for this pattern is 32 stitches by 44 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) of stockinette stitch after blocking, ensuring proper fit and fabric drape. The pattern incorporates make-one (M1) increases as a shaping technique, allowing for precise stitch additions during construction.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Vervain pattern calls for 1 skein of Studio Sock by Neighborhood Fiber Co., a high-quality sock yarn composed of 100% superwash merino wool. This yarn provides 400 yards (366 meters) per 113-gram skein, offering ample yardage for completing both socks. The superwash treatment makes the finished socks machine-washable and durable for everyday wear. The pattern is shown in the Lauraville colorway. Knitters should use 2.5 mm (US 1.5) double-pointed needles in a set of 5, or adjust needle size as needed to achieve the specified gauge. Additional notions include one removable stitch marker for pattern tracking, two fixed stitch markers for construction reference, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and any necessary seaming.