The Tally Alley Socks use a series of parallel lines in opposite directions to create a basket-weave effect. This is a fun motif to play around with contrast and color pairings, and it’s a great way to use up some of that sock stash!

This cuff-down sock pattern has two heel options, the Afterthought or Shadow Wrap Heel, based on your preference.

Each size has its own chart to accommodate the proper stitch count: the charts are similar between the S and L sizes, as they are between the M and XL sizes, but there are slight differences between the S/L vs. the M/XL (see comparison image).

This pattern has been tech-edited and tested.

YARN

GRADIENT FADE VERSION:
MC: Hazel Knits Artisan Sock
90% Superwash Merino / 10% Nylon (Heavy Fingering Weight) 400 yds (366 m) / 125 g; 1 skein in Viviane

CC: Knit Picks Stroll
75% Fine Superwash Merino Wool / 25% Nylon (Fingering Weight) 231 yds (211 m) / 50 g; 1 skein each in (mini skeins also work for this): Wonderland Heather, Key Lime, Patina, Electric Blue, Rhapsody, Duchess Heather, Vibrant Violet, Pucker, Strawberry, Pumpkin

SPECKLED VERSION:
MC: Hazel Knits Artisan Sock
90% Superwash Merino / 10% Nylon (Heavy Fingering Weight) 400 yds (366 m) / 125 g; 1 skein in In the Navy

CC: Salty Blonde Fibers 2-ply Sock
80% Superwash Merino / 20% Nylon (Fingering Weight) 400 yds (366 m) / 100 g; 1 skein in Burn Book

Gauge: 32 sts x 40 rounds in stockinette = 4 x 4 in (10 x 10 cm) after blocking

Sizes: Adult S (M, L, XL)
Your Foot Circumference: 8.5 (9.5, 10.5, 11.5) in 21.5 (24, 27, 29) cm
Finished Sock Circumference: 7 (8, 9, 10) in 17.75 (20, 23, 25.5) cm
For Best Fit: You will measure the circumference of your foot around the widest part, and allow for 1-2 in (2.5-5 cm) of negative ease.

Pattern level: Intermediate

Needles & Notions:

• US 1 (2.25 mm) needles for heel, toe, and cuff
• US 1.5 (2.5 mm) needles for colorwork

Note: Due to the length of the floats, it is recommended to do a gauge swatch and try on the sock as you get to the ankle/heel to ensure a proper fit. If you tend to knit tighter with colorwork, you may want to go up an additional needle size in the colorwork sections.

• Stitch markers (including a unique BoR M), tapestry needle, waste yarn in contrasting color and same yarn weight (only if you choose the Afterthought Heel option)

Techniques used: Kitchener stitch, Stranded colorwork, Afterthought Heel OR Shadow Wrap Short Row Heel