Noro Tabi Socks Knitting Pattern

Noro Tabi Socks

What is Being Made

The Noro Tabi Socks are a pair of intermediate-level knitted socks designed for women. These socks are available in two sizes: Women's Small/Medium with a foot circumference of approximately 7 inches (18 cm) and a length of 9½ inches (24 cm), and Women's Large/X-Large with a foot circumference of approximately 8¼ inches (21 cm) and a length of 10½ inches (26.5 cm). The finished socks feature a foot circumference of 8 to 9 inches (20.5 to 23 cm) depending on the size selected.

Knitting Techniques Used

This project employs several essential knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. The pattern involves working in the round using double-pointed needles, which is a fundamental technique for sock construction. The project incorporates stitch increases and decreases, including the slip, slip, knit (SSK) decrease method, which helps shape the sock. Knitters will also use the pick-up and knit technique to add stitches along edges, and the pattern includes chart reading with "no stitch" spaces that require skippers to work only the indicated stitches while bypassing shaded areas. Stitch markers are used throughout to help track pattern repeats and construction points.

Stitches Used

The Noro Tabi Socks pattern utilizes a variety of fundamental knitting stitches. Stockinette stitch forms the primary fabric base, as indicated by the gauge measurement of 25 stitches and 36 rounds to 4 inches (10 cm) over stockinette stitch. Purl stitches are incorporated into the design, created by inserting the needle as if to purl and working the stitch from that position. Yarn overs are used to create new stitches and add decorative or functional elements to the sock. Selvage stitches are worked at edges to facilitate seaming and create clean finishing. The pattern also employs slip stitches to move stitches between needles without working them, and slip, slip, knit decreases to shape the sock by reducing stitch count in a controlled manner. Additionally, knit and purl increases are used where stitches are lifted from between existing stitches and worked to add stitches to the fabric.

Materials and Tools

The Noro Tabi Socks pattern calls for specific materials and tools to complete the project. The yarn is Noro Tabi in colorway #04, with one 150-gram ball required to complete both socks. The pattern specifies two sets of double-pointed needles: one set of size US 2 (2.75 mm) needles and one set of size US 3 (3.25 mm) needles, allowing for gauge adjustments and different sections of the sock if needed. Additional tools include two locking stitch markers to track pattern placement and construction points, a stitch holder for temporarily securing stitches, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and finishing the completed socks.