Simple 4-row lace pattern with garter stitch border, using size 6 needles. Prerequisite skills: Know how to ssk, k2tog, make a yarn over. Stitch pattern is charted and written.

This is a firm gauge for worsted weight yarn. I go by Lucy Neatby’s credo—knit your socks as tightly as you can. Doing this will reduce the inevitable wear-and-tear. These socks are strictly plain vanilla, which is why the pattern is free. It’s a no-brainer for those knitters who are experienced sock knitters. But a good pattern for novices.

Good for intermediate sock knitters, although if you’re a daring beginner, give ‘em a shot.

This pattern was originally published on the KnitList in 1997 as a free Christmas gift to KL members. Back then, digital cameras weren’t available and most people posted their patterns sans pictures. It was truly knitting on faith.