This pattern includes a second PDF version that is formatted for knitters with low vision. It has black text, size 22 or larger text in a sans serif font, no italics, no columns, and fully-written directions. Many thanks to Gemma Thompson (gemmabelle here on Rav) for her guidance in formatting patterns in a more accessible way.

One of my favorite running jokes in historical romances is that very young women are often labeled as “spinsters” or “on the shelf” after making it through a social season or two without finding themselves married at the end. An unmarried woman at 24? What a tragedy! We, the readers, know that this is laughable in the modern context, but in other times it was a very real (and very unfair) fear.

Which is why I love the spinsters of historical romance who decide to opt out and pursue their scientific interests instead. They dig for fossils, take first-aid classes, and, in the case of one particularly memorable character, research the mating habits of lobsters. The scientific spinsters build their own fulfilling lives outside the roles dictated for them by society. Of course, love sometimes has a sneaky way of squeezing in between the spaces of even the most rigorous research routine.

These socks are knit from the top down with a classic 2x2 cuff, heel flap and gusset, and wedge toe, all in a fun contrast color. They are graded to five sizes for a wider range of fit. The cables down the side of each panel help counterbalance any extra stretchiness from the lace, while the pattern itself is simple enough to be easily memorized after just a few repeats.

Sizes

1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Finished sock dimensions: 6.5” (16.5 cm), 7.5” (19 cm), 8.5” (21.5 cm), 9.5” (24 cm), 10.5” (26.5 cm) circumference (Note: most people like their socks snug, so choose a finished sock size that is slightly smaller than your actual foot)

Materials

Fingering weight yarn, main color 260-420 yds (238-384 m), contrast color 1 mini skein for a maximum of 115 yds (105 m) (sizes 1-3) or two mini skeins for a maximum of 230 yds (210 m) (sizes 4-5)

Sample shown knit in Coast to Coast Yarn Co. Classic Sock Set, 80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon, 400 yds (366 m) per 3.5 oz (100 g), colorways Fall from Grace (main color) and Grumpy Sunshine (contrast color)

Gauge

4” (10 cm) square = 32 stitches x 40 rows in stockinette

Needles

One set of needles for your preferred style of small-circumference knitting in a size to match gauge listed above

Suggested needle size: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Tools

One stitch marker for beginning of round; optional additional markers between pattern repeats
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Skill Level

Intermediate. Techniques include decreases, increases, knitting in the round, stockinette grafting