This elegant herringbone pattern is well-suited for both men’s and women’s socks. The firm fabric created by the herringbone motif is balanced by ribbing on either side of the leg which adds enough stretch for a great fit. Perfectly elegant for office wear while still looking great kicking back in casual clothes.

Note: The PDF has been updated in October 2013 to add sizes and provide a separate toe-up version. Pattern now provided for cuff down and toe-up versions!

This pattern is knit with a reinforced slip-stitch heel. The ribbing on each side of the sock continues down the heel for a little added touch of flare. If you prefer, omit the ribbing and continue the plain slip-stitch across the entire heel.

This is a simple 4 row repeat pattern which repeats on the front and back of the sock. It is easy to memorize and perfect “travel” knitting project.

Both charts and written instructions are provided, as well as a link to the wonderful Twisted German Cast On. Helpful tips are peppered throughout the pattern in the sidebars.

Skill Level:
Advanced beginner. You should be familiar with basic sock construction. There are only 2 “unusual” stitches used in the herringbone pattern and they are explained fully in the Stitch Definition section.

Sizes:
Pattern is written for 3 sizes: Small, Medium and Large (7.5”, 8”, 10” leg circumference, lightly blocked).
By using a larger size needle for the cuff and casting on with the Twisted German Cast on, , you can guarantee a stretchy cuff to accommodate a range of leg sizes.

Gauge:
32 sts per 4” (10cm)

Materials needed:

• 2.25mm (size 1) knitting needles (DPN or circular)
• 300-350 yards (275-320m) of fingering weight yarn similar to the recommended yarns at 430-460 yards per 100g.
• tapestry needle

Pattern Notes:
The instructions reference the sole and instep stitches rather than specifying needles, allowing you to use your preferred method (4 or 5 needles, magic loop, 2 circular needles). If you wish to add length to the leg of the sock, add the appropriate number of pattern repeats and adjust your yarn requirements accordingly.

I recommend using pointy needles as the pattern occasionally requires you to knit into a stitch in the row below. It’ll be easier to do this with a pointier needle.