Reel Boot Toppers by Laura Cunitz

Reel Boot Toppers

Knitting
January 2019
Sport (12 wpi) ?
25 stitches and 34 rows = 4 inches
in Stockinette
US 4 - 3.5 mm
55 - 125 yards (50 - 114 m)
Short (one size) and Long (S, M, L)
English
This pattern is available as a free Ravelry download

These boot toppers / leg warmers are party in the front and in the back. With Showy Decrease faux cables on the front and a ‘seam’ in the back.

The faux seam is not simply a slip stitch, it is a Showy Decrease which shows clearly on the knit seed-stitch fabric. The Showy Decrease is a simple modification to standard decreases that connects them in a series and causes them to rise up on the knit fabric as a decorative element. You’ll find them in most of Knitting Nuances designs and can learn all about them on our blog.

This seed section provides the calf shaping which is augmented with front shaping in the medium and larges sizes.

Instructions are written for 2 circulars (or Magic Loop) and includes both written line by line instructions and charts.

Knit with Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino, this yarn has an unusual 25 sts per 4”/10 cm gauge on a US 3 (3.25 mm). The toppers were knit to a gauge of 24 sts on a US 4 (3.5 mm). You’ll want a wool/merino base for the give.

I also knit a set with Plymouth Select Merino with a label gauge of 22 sts on a US 4. They were a bit thicker but the ribs were tighter as well so the sizes were similar.

Sizes:

  • The long version with faux seam comes in S/M/L. Upper leg 9-11” wide (but very stretchy) and 10-11” long.
  • There is also a simpler short version that is the same in front and back. 8.5” wide and 7” long. Shown here in solid yellow and blue/rust.