Instructions to make “Plain Stockings” appear in the 1840 edition of The Ladies’ Knitting and Netting Book by Miss Watts. Miss Watts also specifies that the stitch pattern used in the “Scallop Shell Purse” can be used for stockings.

The stitch pattern used is an 11-stitch repeat, so it is easily customizable to your exact tension and gauge. You should feel free to use your favorite heel and toe construction but I have included my own stitch by stitch instructions with my favorite heels and toes. I have also included instructions for historically accurate heels and toes for your use.

This modern adaptation of the pattern has been translated and brought up-to-date for the contemporary knitter. Finished objects that are produced using this pattern may be used by reenactors looking to use items that could have been knit in the middle of the 19th Century.