This pattern includes a second PDF version that is formatted for knitters with low vision. It has black text, size 22 or larger text in a sans serif font, no italics, no columns, and fully-written directions. Many thanks to Gemma Thompson (gemmabelle here on Rav) for her guidance in formatting patterns in a more accessible way.

I love a good grumpy/sunshine pairing, which is where one half of a couple is an incorrigible curmudgeon, and the other half is overpoweringly cheerful. Many of us carry elements of both personalities within us, and they emerge at different times. It’s extra fun to explore how that dynamic plays out when love and longing get involved.

When I started playing with design ideas for this sock, I knew I wanted to use this skein of beautifully speckled yarn. I also knew, though, that those speckles would make it too strong for a highly textured sock design. In fact, this gorgeous yarn was decidedly grumpy when I started working with it. It needed some sunshine for balance.

So I added a contrast cuff, heel, and toe on the main sample, and then I worked a second sample in the plain yarn. These two pairs of socks together are the perfect grumpy/sunshine partnership, and I plan to keep them together forever. What a splendid happily ever after!

These socks are knit from the cuff down and graded to five sizes. They feature a simple ten-stitch repeat that is very easily memorized. A heel flap and gusset provide an adjustable fit, while the socks are finished with a classic wedge toe.

SIZES

1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Finished sock dimensions: 6.25” (16 cm), 7.5” (18 cm), 8.75” (22 cm), 10” (25.5 cm), 11.25” (28.5 cm) circumference (Note: most people like their socks snug, so choose a finished sock size that is slightly smaller than your actual foot)

MATERIALS

Two-colored version: fingering weight yarn, main color 260-420 yds (238-384 m), contrast color 1 mini skein for a maximum of 115 yds (105 m) (sizes 1-3) or two mini skeins for a maximum of 230 yds (210 m) (sizes 4-5)

One-colored version: fingering weight yarn, 280-440 yds (256-403 m)

Two-color sample shown knit in Cowgirl Blues Proper Sock, 75% Superwash Wool, 25% Nylon, 400 yds (366 m) per 3.5 oz (100g), colorway Barbra Streisand (main color); Regia 4-ply Solids, 75% Virgin Wool, 25% Polyamide, 459 yds (420 m) per 3.5 oz (100g) (contrast color)

Single-color sample shown knit in Regia 4-ply Solids, 75% Virgin Wool, 25% Polyamide, 459 yds (420 m) per 3.5 oz (100g)

GAUGE

4” (10 cm) square = 32 stitches x 41 rows in stockinette

NEEDLES

One set of needles for your preferred style of small-circumference knitting in a size to match gauge listed above

Suggested needle size: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

TOOLS

One stitch marker for beginning of round; optional additional markers between pattern repeats
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

SKILL LEVEL

Intermediate

Techniques: decreases, knitting in the round, stockinette stitch grafting