Update 6/25/11, 1/6/11, I was made aware of a typo in row 5 of the pattern. It should read; K2, P1, P2tog, P1, K2, P2, K2, P1, P F/B, P2, K2, P2, K2, P2, K F/B, P1, K2, P2, K2, P1, P2tog, P1 K2, P2. The Pattern in the store has been updated as of this date aswell.

Steam Pipes was designed for my husband. I have made him plain stockinette stitch socks and ribbed socks. I wanted something different, something with movement. I did not want something overly complicated. This is the result; it is ribby but enough movement to make me happy.
I have written the directions using Melissa Morgan-Oakes 2-at-a-Time socks system. If you are not familiar with her book, you can do one of two things: check out her great book and learn a new technique, or work it traditionally and divide the stitches across the 3 needles. And if you are familiar, then enjoy. I am not promoting one style over another; I just do it this way and prefer it. One also could certainly change any component of the sock to fit their personal taste!
A quick note about the size: The nature of the stitch pattern does not easily adjust for different sizes; my suggestion is to change the gauge, use smaller or larger needles to get a smaller or bigger sock. I used size US 3 needles for my hubby’s size 13s. I will say that the leg of the sock is very stretchy. Many sizes could use it, then to size down for the foot; reduce the number of stitches on the sole of the sock.