Cupid’s Arrow is a simple textured pattern resembling the arrows of the classic Roman mythological god Cupid. When his arrows hit their target, they are overcome with love or passion.

While these purl arrows probably won’t do that, this pattern will introduce you to the rounded toe which can give your socks a completely different look and feel in your toes, as well as the heel flap and gusset which is another favorite technique of mine.

Using a heel flap and gusset can make you look like a sock knitting genius, especially to non-knitters! It can be a scary thing to knit at first and it was something I struggled with for the first ten years or so of sock knitting. Instead of adding a heel flap and gusset, I would run the other way and use a short-row heel or Fish Lips Kiss heel. Once I sat down and started to understand the construction, I found myself using it more and more, and now most of my more advanced designs include a heel flap and gusset.

Gauge: 8 stitches/inch using US 1 (2.25mm circular needles).

Sizing: 1 (2, 3) - which fits around a foot circumference of 7-12.5 (8-13.25 inches, 8.5-14.75 inches) around.

Yarn: This pattern calls for Zitron Trekking XXL (1 ball 100g) It is 75% wool, 25% nylon yarn.

A good substitution would be something like Opal or Regia. I recommend leaning towards lighter colors as they will show off the stitch pattern more than a dark yarn with heavy variegation.

You will ideally want 100 grams of sock yarn. I have a size 9.5-10 foot and I normally use 60-70 grams for my feet. If you have larger feet or if you have a larger foot/ankle circumference you may need all of the 100 grams.

Materials:

• US 1 (2.25) circular knitting needles (or size needed to get gauge), I recommend at least 32 inches (my preferred length). You can substitute DPNs and 9-inch circulars for circulars as well and I’ll show you how.
• 100 grams of fingering weight sock yarn.
• Stitch marker or locking stitch marker (optional)
• Ruler or measuring tape.
• Darning needle.
• Sock blockers to photograph your socks once you’re done! (optional).

Notes: This pattern is written for magic loop, but can easily be changed to DPNs. Use 2 needles for N1, and another 2 for N2. If you’re using 9-inch circulars, there will be notes throughout to guide you.