Each spring, Ostrich Ferns (Fiddleheads)raise a hopeful filigree of new fronds along the sodden banks of New Brunswick’s St John River. Foragers like my father, collect this most seasonal of delicacies for plating in fine restaurants and simple homes alike around Canada. Like Fiddlesheads, these socks are hardy but beautiful, with an elegant fern-like lacework, but strengthened by the sturdy, contrast colour Eye of Partridge heel and a Kitchener stitch finish for the toe closure. Worked from the cuff down, they are a great pair of socks for the adventurous beginner!

Suggested Yarn:
Main Colour (MC): Dream Smooshy Sock Yarn, fingering weight. 4 ply weight, 70% Superwash Merino Wool, 20% Cashmere, 10% Nylon. Colour, Blue Sage.
Approx. 300-350 yards/328- 383 meters.
Contrast Colour (CC): Cascade Yarns, Heritage Sock yarn, 75% Superwash Merino, 25% Nylon in Colour No. 5618, Snow.
Approx. 8-9 yards/7.3-8.2 meters.

Needles: 9” / 23cm short circular sized 2mm / US 0 for cuff and 2.25mm/US 1 for remainder of sock. Optionally Magic Loop/dpns can be used.

Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and for Kitchener stitch method and stitch markers.

Gauge: 32 sts x 40 rows, 10 x 10cm/4 x 4” in stockinette using 2.25mm/US 1.

Sizes XS (S, M/L, XL)
Knitted actual circumference: 6.5(7.5, 8.5, 9.5)“/ 17(19, 22, 24)cm
Will stretch to accommodate foot circumference: 7.5 (8.5, 9.5, 10.5)”/ 19 (22, 24, 27)cm
Sock Length (to desired length): 6.75-7.25 (7.5-8, 8.25-8.75, 9-9.5)“/17-18cm (19-20cm, 21-22, 23-24)cm.

Suggestions: Weave CC in 5 to 10 stitches early to secure.