A berm is a raised piece of land running parallel to a shore. I spent many moments sitting on the berm near my childhood home, watching the waves of the bay spraying the beach. It is often my “go to” memory when I need to calm my mind. This sock pattern was inspired by the sea and the salt and pepper pattern found in traditional Newfoundland knitting. Growing up in Newfoundland meant learning to knit and my childhood was no exception. My grandmother taught me to knit before I learnt to read. I still associate the clicking of the knitting “pins” with the comfort of home.

This pattern is knit top down and uses English style knitting. “By the Berm” is a good pattern for a knitter who is fairly new to stranded knitting as it is short and would be easy to complete while watching TV. This is a worsted weight sock, meant to be worn during colder weather. It would be perfect for skiing or hiking, or just sitting cozily by the fire. I use 100% acrylic for easy washing. Wool would also work well with this pattern. I personally like the look of solid colours together, one dark and one light, to allow the pattern to stand out.

Note on yarn: The label of the wool I used included “Yarnspirations” but I am having difficulty finding it online.

Size / Measurements
This pattern was written for men’s US size 9-10.
Finished measurements: (sample shown)
Leg to ankle = 20 cm (8 inches) Leg circumference = 27 cm (10½ inches)
Foot length = 27 cm (10½ inches) Foot circumference = 27 cm (10½ inches)
Instep circumference = 36 cm (14 inches)

I prefer a shorter toe in my sock patterns. There are different toe patterns out there that you may use. Make note of the length of the toe pattern you use and keep it in mind when measuring the length of your foot. My toe in this pattern is 4 cm (1½ inches) while other patterns tend to have 5 cm (2 inches).