This pattern is designed to be knit toe-up, but can be knit cuff-down if so desired. The only difference will be that the raised (slipped) stitches will be facing the opposite direction. If knitting cuff-down, I recommend using the German Twisted Cast-On.

I love knitting this pattern with 9” circular needles, but they’re definitely not necessary.

This pattern was born because I wanted a pattern that would showcase pretty indie-dyed yarn but wasn’t just plain stockinette. However, I wanted the difficulty to stay at that same level. This sock fits all of those requirements, and I absolutely love the way this stitch pattern looks in any type of yarn!

This pattern is written for an AFTERTHOUGHT heel, but any heel may be substituted. The method I describe in the instructions does not use waste yarn and includes cutting into your knitting after the rest of the sock is complete. I love this method because I’ve never had any holes at the corners when using it, and the heels always feel very sturdy. There are many great tutorials for this method out there, but my favorite is this one: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=616gmtAYWLU

*Please note that this pattern produces a slightly tighter fabric than a plain stockinette sock. Please choose your size accordingly.*

SIZING:

This pattern has three different size options: S (M,L)
The stitch counts for the sizes are: 60 (70,80)

Choose Size S if: you normally knit your stockinette socks with 52-56 stitches.
Choose Size M if: you normally knit your stockinette socks with 60-64 stitches.
Choose Size L if: you normally knit your stockinette socks with 68-72 stitches.

If you follow these guidelines, but find the sock is feeling too loose, I would recommend going down a needle size rather than dropping to the next size down.