Kringle Socks by Helen Stewart

Kringle Socks

Knitting
November 2024
DK (11 wpi) ?
24 stitches and 32 rows = 4 inches
in Stockinette
US 3 - 3.25 mm
200 - 266 yards (183 - 243 m)
Extra Small, (Small, Medium, Large)
English

The magic of Kris Kringle (or Secret Santa, as it’s often known) lies in its delightful blend of mystery and thoughtfulness. There’s the thrill of drawing an unknown name from a hat, and the challenge of pondering the perfect gift for someone you may know well—or perhaps are just getting to know. It brings a spark of childlike excitement to grown-up gift-giving, inviting us to be playful, creative, and sometimes wonderfully surprising in our choices. Like a well-chosen Secret Santa gift, the best traditions often start small: a suggestion, an experiment, a whim that grows into something cherished. They remind us that the joy of giving isn’t about grandeur, but about the heart we put into even the simplest gestures.
The Kringle Socks capture this spirit of warmth and whimsy. Knit in cosy DK weight yarn, they’re a quick and satisfying project—perfect for a short-notice gift exchange is just around the corner! The pattern includes four sizes to help you find the perfect fit for a wide range of recipients. The sock features a classic ribbed pattern, with a delicate eyelet detail to peek over the top of your boots, like a secret shared between friends. I’ve used a traditional heel flap and gusset construction, with a wedge toe, but you can easily substitute your favourite finishes—after all, what happens behind the scenes of gift-making is all part of the fun! Whether you’re actually knitting them for a gift exchange, or just treating yourself to some festive footwear, the Kringle Socks are a wearable reminder of the joy found in thoughtful surprises and the warmth of connections, old and new.

Size
Extra Small, (Small, Medium, Large)

Finished Measurements
Leg length: 15cm/6” from cuff to the start of the heel

Circumference: 15cm/6” (18cm/7”, 20cm/8”, 23cm/9”)

Yarn
Louie & Lola Merino Nylon DK 80% superwash merino, 20% nylon; 243m/266yds per 100g skein,
1 x 100g skein Colour: Aurora Australis

Yarn requirements will vary slightly for each size depending on the length knit but to give an indication:

A small sample (knit in size EUR40 length) used approximately:
82g or 185m/202yds of DK weight yarn

The medium sample pictured (knit in size EUR42 length) used approximately:
96g or 216m/236yds of DK weight yarn

Needles
3.25mm (US 3), 100cm (40”) long circular needles (or size to obtain gauge) for magic loop method or DPNs if preferred

Notions
Tapestry needle
1 stitch marker

Gauge
24 sts/32 rounds = 10cm (4”) in stockinette stitch