Description
Intermediate. This sock is named for the town of Mallaig, where Gladys Thompson documented the motifs I have incorporated into the design. The Channel Island Cast-on begins the cuff and diamonds flank the leg. The pattern offers three sizes: Woman’s Medium (Woman’s Large/Man’s Small, Man’s Large) based on foot circumference, while the foot length can be knitted to your measurement.
These socks are knitted in DK weight sock yarn, from the leg down to the toe. They won’t take much time worked at 6 stitches per inch. I chose to start this pair with the Channel Island cast-on, but you can substitute the Long Tail cast-on method if you are knitting these socks for men. (I have included Technique boxes with photos for both methods.) Although the Channel Island cast-on is often perceived in our modern world to be feminine-looking, remember that it adorned many a burly guy’s gansey, but suit yourself!
In addition to the Technique Boxes for the cast-ons, illustrated with photos of the Continental method, there are charts for the patterning of the cuff, leg, and foot. A Theory Box and a Technique Box are included to show step-by-step how to finish the toe with Kitchener Stitch. A list of abbreviations is included as well as a book list for further reading. These socks are of one color.
Featured Techniques
The Channel Island Cast-on, The Long Tail Cast-on, Kitchener Stitch
You may also wish to view my video on the Channel Island Cast-on that is used in this pattern.
Sizes
Foot circumference: 71/2 (83/4, 93/4)” (19 [22, 25] cm).
Leg length: 101/2 (103/4, 111/2)” (26.5 [27.5, 29] cm).
Gauge
24 sts and 32 rnds = 4″ (10 cm) in St st.
27 sts and 32 rnds = 4″ (10 cm) in Motif Chart pattern
Materials
Yarn:
#3 DK weight: 292 (399, 480) yds (267 [365, 439] m). Shown here: Hazel Knits Lively DK (90% superwash merino, 10% nylon; 275 yds [251m]/4.6 oz. [130 g]) Chocoberry, 2 skeins.
Needles:
Size U.S. 4 (3.5 mm): set of 4 double-pointed (DPN). Adjust needle size if necessary to achieve the correct gauge.
Notions:
Stitch markers, tapestry needle
