Trailhead Socks

Abbreviations

Finishing

With 16 sts remaining (8 instep sts and 8 sole sts), graft the toe closed using Kitchener stitch: thread the tail onto a tapestry needle, hold the two needles parallel with RS facing out, and work Kitchener stitch (setup: enter front st purlwise, enter back st knitwise; repeat: enter front st knitwise and slip off, enter front st purlwise and leave on; enter back st purlwise and slip off, enter back st knitwise and leave on) until all sts are joined. Pull tail to inside and weave in all ends securely. Repeat the entire pattern for the second sock. Block lightly by soaking in cool water, pressing out excess water in a towel, and allowing to dry flat or on sock blockers.

Notes

Sizing: These socks are designed for an average adult foot with an 8 in circumference. For a smaller foot (7 in), cast on 56 sts; for a wider foot (9 in), cast on 72 sts — adjust heel and toe accordingly in multiples of 8. Foot length: Continue the stockinette foot section until the foot measures 1.75 in less than the wearer's actual foot length before beginning toe decreases. This accounts for the toe shaping. Gusset fit check: Slip the sock onto the foot after the gusset is complete to confirm the foot circumference is comfortable before continuing. Heel flap: The slip-stitch pattern on the heel flap creates a reinforced, dense fabric. Always slip the first stitch of every heel flap row for a neat selvedge. Yarn: A nylon-blend sock yarn is strongly recommended for durability at the heel and toe. Avoid 100% wool if the wearer is hard on socks. Two-at-a-time: This pattern can be worked two-at-a-time on a long circular needle to avoid second-sock syndrome — simply divide each sock's stitches across the same needle and work both simultaneously.