Toe-up socks knit using the Magic Loop method, featuring a simple lacework pattern up the front of the sock.

THE STORY
Knitting up birthday socks for a family member, especially an accomplished knitter, is always an act done covertly (at least in my house). These birthday socks, designed especially for my knit-tastic Mum, were done quietly… you know, Mum’s-the-word style!

FINISHED SIZES
1 (2, 3, 4): 6¾ (7¾, 8¾, 9¾)” / 17 (19.5, 22, 24.5) cm circumference (unstretched).
Recommended Fit: 1” / 2.5 cm negative ease in circumference, measured at widest part of the foot (while standing), and 15% negative ease in length when measured from the tip of the longest toe to the back of the heel.

MATERIALS

• Anzula Squishy (fingering weight; 80% superwash merino, 10% cashmere, 10% nylon; 385 yds/352 m per 100g skein), 1 (1, 1, 2) skeins: ‘Aqua’
• US 1.5 (2.5 mm) 32” / 81 cm circular needle
• Stitch marker (optional to mark beginning of rnd)
• Row counter (optional)
• Tapestry needle

PROJECT GAUGE
32 sts and 46 rnds = 4” / 10 cm over stockinette st in the round, taken after blocking.

SPECIAL TECHNIQUES
Judy’s Magic Cast On
Jeny’s Surprisingly Stretchy Bind OFF

PATTERN NOTES

• These socks are worked from the toe-up, using the Magic Loop method, beginning with Judy’s Magic Cast On technique. These socks also feature a Fleegle Heel and are bound off using Jeny’s Surprisingly Stretchy Bind Off.
• These socks are identical to one another; knit 2 to complete a pair. Instructions are provided for the smallest size, with larger sizes in parentheses. When only 1 set of instructions is provided, it applies to all sizes.
• Adjust needle size as necessary to match gauge.
• Written and charted instructions are provided for these socks.