These spectacular knee socks start at the toe, beginning with a narrow panel at the tip of the toes, from which stitches are picked up to work in the round, with increases to shape the toe.

The sole and heel are worked in reverse stockinette so that the smooth side of the knitting is against the foot.

The cables begin once the toe is complete, with the knitter’s choice of 6 mix and match cables. Knit on all the way to the top, where the knitter has another choice: to shape the top of the calf or leave it simply ribbed.

The toe-up construction and afterthought heel mean that you can try these on as you go, to get the perfect length and fit.

Knitted Measurements:

Foot circumference (measured at ball of foot): 6.75 (8, 9.25, 10.5)“ 17 (20.5, 23.5, 26.5) cm

Calf circumference (measured at widest point): Calf width 1: 11.75 (13, 14.25, 15.5)“ 30 (30, 33, 36, 39.5) cm; Calf width 2: 13 (14.25, 15.5, 16.5)” 33 (36, 39.5, 42) cm

Foot length: 9 (10, 11, 11.5)“ 23 (25.5, 28, 29) cm

Leg length: 15 (15.5, 16, 16.5)“ 38 (39.5, 40.5, 42) cm

Materials

—Pinto Bean by Lolabean Yarn Co. 115g skeins, each approx 250 yds (229 m), 100% merino wool: 2 (2, 3, 3) skeins color Strange Brew

Note: This is enough yarn for either calf width and optional top-of-calf shaping.

—Size US 5 (3.75 mm) double-point needles (set of 4 or 5), or size needed to achieve gauge

—Stitch markers

—Waste yarn

Gauge

23 sts and 32 rnds = 4” (10 cm) over rev st st

Note: Reverse stockinette stitch is not used for the entire sock. The cable pattern will draw the fabric in to the finished measurements.