Clam Shell Socks by Cynthia Wright

Clam Shell Socks

Knitting
October 2022
Fingering (14 wpi) ?
29 stitches and 43 rows = 4 inches
in stockinette with US 2 (2.75 mm) needles in the round, unblocked and unstretched
US 2 - 2.75 mm
US 1 - 2.25 mm
222 - 317 yards (203 - 290 m)
1 (2, 3)
English
This pattern is available for $5.00 USD
buy it now or visit pattern website

The Clam Shell Socks are inspired by a windy walk along the water reveling in the magic of found shells. When you make and wear these socks, I hope you are reminded of the simple magical treasures that spark curiosity and connection.

Sharing:
I would love to see your work! Feel free to tag me on Instagram (@cyntisknits) and use the hashtag #clamshellsocks

Construction:
These socks are knit top-down/cuff-down with a German Short Row heel. Both the heel and toe have instructions for optional colorwork.

Materials:
For all needles, use your preferred length/style for small circumference knitting such as small circular needles, magic loop, or double-pointed needles (DPNs).

  • US 1 / 2.25 mm
  • US 2 / 2.75 mm Note that DPNs or magic loop is required in the size for the toe
  • Tapestry Needle (for weaving in ends)
  • Beginning of Round Marker (stitch marker, scrap yarn or other)

Skills in this Pattern:

  • German short rows
  • Twisted German Cast On or Preferred Stretchy Cast On
  • Right Leaning Decrease (k2tog)
  • Left Leaning Decrease (ssk)
  • Knit yarn wrapping twice
  • Kitchener Stitch OR 3 needle bind-off
  • Reading a lace/texture chart OR written instructions
  • Knit stitch
  • Purl stitch
  • Knitting flat
  • Knitting in the round
  • Ribbing


Yarn:
About 222-317 yds / 203-290 m of fingering-weight sock yarn. Estimates by size are shown in pictures.

Budget/more accessible yarns are linked in the suggested yarns above.

The samples used wool blends (with less than 20% nylon and/or cashmere)

  • Main Color: Woolberry Fiber Co. Berry Cashmere in Coastal
  • Contrast Color: Treehouse Knits Sequoia Sock in Dante

Gauge:
All gauges are measured in a 4”x4” / 10 cm x 10 cm area, knit in the round, and unblocked.

  • 29 stitches and 43 rows in stockinette using US 2 / 2.75 mm needles.
  • 32 stitches and 48 rows in 1x1 ribbing using US 1 / 2.25 mm needles.

Sizing:

Size is determined by your foot circumference. If you are between sizes, choose the one you are closest to or reference the full schematic for all measurements (shown as an image). The pattern includes more information on choosing your size and alterations.

All sizes have about 0.5”-0.75” / 1.3-2 cm of negative ease.

Sizes: 1 (2, 3) intended for a foot circumference of 7 (8, 9) inches or 17.5 (20.5, 23) centimeters

Pattern Includes:

  • Exclusive Video Tutorial of the Clam Shell Details (including colorwork)
  • Charted and Written Instructions for the Colorwork and Texture Motifs
  • Links to Videos and Blog Instructions for all Specific Techniques
  • Tips on Mixing & Matching Leg and Foot Circumferences
  • Tips on Changing the Leg Length to Your Preference
  • Extensive Tips and Tricks especially about the German Short Row Heel and colorwork — Recommended for Beginners!