Possibly stemming from the presence of cauldrons and other mystical objects in Celtic mythologies, the grail became a common theme in literature related to King Arthur. The grail is most commonly identified as the cup that Jesus drank from at the Last Supper and that Joseph of Arimathea used to collect Jesus’s blood when he was crucified. From the knights of medieval legends to Indiana Jones, the holy grail has been one of the most sought-after Christian relics in popular culture for centuries. However, in the Mists of Avalon, Ms. Bradley portrays the grail as one of four objects symbolizing the four Elements: the Grail itself (water), the sword Excalibur (fire), a dish (earth), and a spear or wand (air).

This top down sock pattern uses Bavarian twisted stitches, simple cables, and beads to portray the grail. For this pattern, I recommend using solid or low contrast yarn to showcase the intricate stitch work, but any color way of your choice will work. Twisted stitch work can also limit the stretchiness of the finished sock, so either use a yarn that is springy with good crimp, use larger needles, or size up. Directions are provided for 4 adult women’s sock sizes, extra small, small, medium, and large, equivalent to women’s shoe sizes US 6-6.5 (EU 36-37), US 7-7.5 (EU 37.5-38), US 8-8.5 (EU 38.5-39), and US 9-9.5 (EU 40-41). Pattern includes directions for both a long and short leg. Directions include a fitted heel and simple arch shaping. Stitch pattern included only as chart.