NOTE: ERRATA: For all sizes, there is a change in Toe Set-up Round 1. Sizes Small and Large, Round 1, Needle 2 should read “Work Round 3 of Cable/Lace Pattern”. Size Medium, Round 1, Needle 2 should read “Work Round 15 of Cable/Lace Pattern”.

Description from Knitty, Summer 2007:



Perfect for summer (or for summer knitting for winter gifts): a “bare-all-ankle” sock. 

I love everything about this sock design:  the low-cut cuff, the detailed heel, the cable and lace pattern (called “Tilting Ladder” in Barbara Walker’s Second Treasury) flanked by seed stitch columns on the top of the foot, and the beautiful merging of shaping and pattern at the toe. 

The sock may look alarmingly long and narrow while being knit, especially the larger sizes, but never fear, it’s really an optical illusion.  In fact, it needs to stretch considerably to properly showcase the details and fit comfortably.  Because the instep detailing both “gives” from the lace and “clings” like a ribbing from the cables, the sock can both stretch for wider feet, and stay on narrower ones. 

Although the pattern requires a little concentration, it can still be memorized, and with such short cuffs, the whole project is a “breeze” from start to finish.  (Besides, gotta love a pair of socks out of a single skein or so!)  If you prefer, work the optional rolled cuff on top of the ribbing for a different look, or make yourself a slightly higher ankle by working a couple of inches of the ribbing before continuing with the rest of the sock instructions.  Whip off a few sets in different colors to get you through sandal season, and make some extras for gifts!