Gardiner Yarn Works Seedy Rib Socks Knitting Pattern

Gardiner Yarn Works Seedy Rib Socks

What Is Being Made

The Gardiner Yarn Works Seedy Rib Socks are a pair of women's medium-sized socks designed by Chrissy Gardiner. These stretchy ribbed socks feature an 8-inch foot circumference and are crafted using a distinctive twisted seeded rib stitch pattern. The design is ideal for showcasing variegated yarns and offers a portable knitting project suitable for on-the-go crafting.

Techniques Used

These socks are constructed using seamless, top-down knitting methods, meaning the sock is worked from the cuff downward in one continuous piece without seaming. The entire sock is worked in the round, creating a tubular fabric that requires no finishing. This approach allows knitters to try on the sock as they progress and adjust the length to their preference. The pattern accommodates two needle options for working in the round: double-pointed needles or circular needles, giving knitters flexibility in their tool choice.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is a twisted seeded rib, which creates visual interest and texture. The rib pattern alternates between purl stitches and knit-through-back-loop stitches across the sock. Specifically, the pattern repeats two rounds:

• Rib Pattern Round 1: *Purl 1, knit through back loop, knit 1, knit through back loop, purl 1; repeat to end of round
• Rib Pattern Round 2: *Purl 1, knit through back loop, purl 1, knit through back loop, purl 1; repeat to end of round

The pattern also incorporates standard sock construction stitches including knit, purl, knit 2 together, purl 2 together, slip stitches, and SSK (slip, slip, knit) decreases for shaping the heel and toe.

Materials and Gauge

The Gardiner Yarn Works Seedy Rib Socks require sock-weight yarn totaling approximately 400 yards. The sample shown uses Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock in the Aslan colorway. Knitters work to a gauge of 36 stitches and 44 rounds over 4 inches in stockinette stitch.

For needles, knitters have two options: a set of 5 size 1 (2.5mm) double-pointed needles or a set of 2 size 2 (2.5mm) 24-inch circular needles. Additionally, a yarn needle is required for weaving in ends. The pattern begins with casting on 70 stitches divided across the needles, which are then organized to distinguish between instep stitches (front of leg and top of foot) and heel stitches (back of leg and bottom of foot).

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as advanced beginner difficulty, making it accessible to knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle sock construction. The twisted seeded rib creates a visually interesting texture while remaining manageable for developing knitters.