Fawkes Sawkes is a classic top-down design using a combination of cables and lace to create what I think (!) look like fireworks. Instructions are written for ladies’ size small, medium and large, which, when working to a gauge of 8.5 sts/inch, correspond to a foot width of 19 cm/7 ½”, 21 cm/8 ¼” and 23 cm/ 9” respectively.

As with many of my designs the pattern extends all the way down the heel flap, and a classic short-row heel/gusset construction make this pattern suitable for knitters looking for an advanced beginner/intermediate sock pattern.

As with any design that includes cables, the stitch count is higher than non-cabled patterns – this is because of the effect cables have on the stretchiness of the fabric – CookieA used the term “suckage” in a course I took with her a few years ago, and I haven’t found a better word for it! I am mentioning this because it is important for knitters to use a yarn with yardage on the higher side, and also to (gasp!) swatch.

Finally, I will suggest that this pattern is better suited to solid or semi-solid yarns, however a small amount of variegation may work.