Inspiration for the Braided Ribbons was drawn from memories of the designer’s niece as a little girl, hair worn up in braids and ribbons, exploring…climbing…catching herself.

The unisex socks feature a novel braided stitch pattern designed to be knit with combinations of solid, tonal and/or variegated yarns. The texture also plays well with self-striping yarns set off by a solid. Contrasting cuffs, heels and toes are ideal for using up small yarn quantities.

Although designated as an intermediate level sock, one of the four easily memorized stitch pattern rows requires a bit of concentration. As is typical of my designs, I try to introduce novel techniques. With this pattern experienced knitters are encouraged to use it as a guide to forge their own interpretations of how to let their yarns play with one another.

Techniques: Working in the round on 2 circular needles, Estonian double start cast on, modified braided open work stitch pattern, make 1 below increase, modified square/Dutch heel, wedge toe.

Sizes: 6 1/2 (7 1/2, 8 1/2, 9 1/2) inches; 16.5 19, 21.5, 24 cm relaxed foot circumference. To fit teenage/adult small, adult medium, adult large, adult x-large. Leg and foot lengths easily adjustable.

Yarn: Fingering weight (14wpi). Recommended MC, CC1 and CC2. Optional CC3. Quantities will vary depending on number of CC’s and option of inserting contrasting cuffs, heels and toes. A total of 420yds/384m should be sufficient to knit the largest sizes. Design is suitable for using partial skeins.

Needles: Two US 1 (2.25mm) circular needles, or size to obtain gauge. Double point needles are easily substituted. Magic loop method and working socks two at a time are not recommended for knitting the leg because of shifting stitches.

Much gratitude to the excellent Ravelry test knitters who provided feedback along each and every step, so that a gift for a niece could be shared with others: niemiecp, zoei, knitbyhand, Drahdiwawal, and mimi999.