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.

A marriage of convenience story almost needs no explanation. Two people who don’t love each other decide to get married anyway because it provides other benefits they need. Along the way, though, something happens, and they end up falling in love even though they didn’t plan it and perhaps don’t even want it. The best-laid schemes of mice and men, eh?

When I bought the yarn for these socks, I knew I needed to name this pattern Marriage of Convenience. That’s because the colorway name is “Duke of Hawtness,” and when I asked the dyer (Shelia Anderson of Urban Girl Yarns), she confirmed it was named for Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings—AKA the Bridgerton Guy. I had a good chuckle and knew it was fate.

These socks are knit from the top down with a ribbed cuff, heel flap and gusset, and wedge toe. They are graded to five sizes for a wider range of fit. The ribbing that runs the length of the sock helps keep them snug and supportive.

SIZES

1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Finished sock dimensions: 6.25” (16 cm), 7.5” (19 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

Fingering weight yarn, 280-440 yds (256-403 m)

Sample shown knit in Urban Girl Yarns Virginia, 480 yds (439 m) per 4.4 oz (125 g)

GAUGE

4” (10 cm) square = 32 stitches x 40 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 grafting