This pattern began as a request for a Christmas stocking for our grandchildren’s new stepdad so his would go with others previously made for the family. This keepsake-quality Christmas stocking combines several techniques, including stranded knitting, and is written for three weights of yarn: sport, DK, and worsted. It can be personalized with the recipient’s name, either knit in or added later with duplicate stitch, and will cheer up any decor for the holidays. For added sparkle, beads can be used to embellish the little Christmas trees.

This pattern comes in two versions: the basic pattern and an extended version, which includes an additional three pages of bonus designs, photos, and technique tutorials. Both PDFs come for the single price, so knitters can choose which one they prefer to use.

Sizes range from 6 1/4-7” wide by 22-24” long, depending on the yarn used.

Gauge: After blocking, in sport, 25½ sts x 26 rounds/4” (10 cm); in DK, 24½ sts x 27 rounds/4” (10 cm); in worsted, 23 sts x 26 rounds/4” (10 cm).

Yarn: See pattern for more info on quantity needed
Sport: 2 50-g sk of white/Aran; 1 sk each of Really Red and Christmas Green
DK: 1 100-g sk each of natural, Christmas Red, Christmas Green, and Christmas Variegated
Worsted: 1 100-g sk each of white/Aran, Really Red, and Christmas Green
If you start with full skeins, you will also have enough for a hat or two.

Notions: 1 sliding stitch marker; 1 coilless pin or locking st marker; tapestry needle; abt. 1½ yds scrap yarn. Optional: Chart holder and highlighting tape.

If beading designs in sport or DK, recommend size 6 beads applied with a size 7 (1.5 mm) crochet hook; for worsted, use size 3 beads and a size 3 (2.1 mm) crochet hook. Needle and thread may also be used to sew the beads on after knitting rather than adding them as you go. Quantity of beads needed will vary depending on size of beads, colors used, and patterns chosen, but 20 g of size 6 or 25 g of size 3 beads in total should be ample.