These socks are another example of limiting placement of cables for maximum effect. The single Saxon braid makes a bold statement on a small canvas such as a sock. The fact that the braid also works at more than one gauge suitable for socks is a bonus. The three versions shown here illustrate how subtle changes in stitch gauge, especially over a limited surface, can completely change the look and feel of a cable. It can be surprising and delightful how a cable pattern works up at a small gauge.
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Skill level: Intermediate
Finished measurements
Sized to fit average women's foot
Leg length: 7" (18cm)
Foot length: 9-1/2" (24cm)
Ankle circumference: 8" (20.5cm)
Sized to fit average men's foot
Leg length: 9" (23cm)
Foot length: 10-1/2" (26.5cm)
Ankle circumference: 8-1/2" (21.5cm)
Yarn
Women's: 320 (350, 370) yds (293 [320, 339]m) sock or fingering weight
Men's: 350 (400, 470) yds (320 [366, 430]m) sock or fingering weight
Model at left: 2 (2, 2) 2 (3, 3) skeins Lorna's Laces Yarns Shepherd Sock, 2-oz (57g) skeins, each approximately 215 yds (197m), 80% superwash wool, 20% nylon, Denim
Model at right: Handspun Suffolk (100%), natural white
Third model: 2 (2, 3) 2 (3, 3) skeins Footpath Yarn, 2 oz (57g) skeins, each approximately 175 yds (160m), 85% wool, 15% nylon, Elderberry
Needles and notions
• One set of four double-pointed needles in US size 3 (3.25mm), 2 (2.75mm), or 1 (2.25mm), or size needed to obtain gauge
• Cable needle
• Stitch markers
• Tapestry needle
Gauge
Model at left: 32 sts = 4" (10cm) in St st using US size 1 (2.25mm) needles
Model at right: 24 sts = 4" (10cm) in St st using US size 3 (3.25mm) needles
Third model: 28 sts = 4" (10cm) in St st using US size 2 (2.75mm) needles
Adjust needle size as necessary to obtain correct gauge.
K2, P2 ribbing
All rounds: (K2, p2) across.
Page 1 of 2 -- Finish your new cable-knit wool socks with instructions on page 2
