Rowan Nectar Socks Knitting Pattern

Rowan Nectar Socks by Lisa Richardson

What Is Being Made

The Rowan Nectar pattern creates a pair of seamless, top-down knitted socks designed to fit an average adult foot. This downloadable PDF pattern from Rowan Yarns provides instructions for constructing both socks using classic sock construction techniques, with a finished sock measuring approximately 20 cm from the back of the heel to the toe shaping, plus an additional 4 cm allowance for the toe section.

Craft and Construction Method

These socks are created using the knitting craft with a top-down, seamless construction worked primarily in the round using double-pointed needles. The pattern also incorporates worked flat sections during the heel shaping process. This combination of techniques allows for a sock with minimal seaming and a comfortable fit.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Ribbed cuff: Alternating knit and purl stitches (K1, P1 rib) form the elastic cuff section
• Stockinette stitch: Used for the foot and leg sections, created by knitting every round
• Heel shaping: Constructed using wrap-and-turn short rows, a technique that creates a shaped heel cup without requiring a separate heel flap. The pattern demonstrates progressive wrapping from row 10 through row 23, gradually increasing the number of stitches worked before turning
• Decreases: Knit two together (K2tog) and slip-stitch decreases are used to shape the toe section, reducing stitches from 48 to 36 and continuing to decrease for a tapered toe finish
• Increase stitches: Purlwise increases are incorporated during the heel shaping transition

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Rowan Nectar socks are knitted using Rowan Pure Cashmere yarn, a luxurious fiber requiring 2 x 50 gram balls (photographed in the colorway Chalk 094). The pattern calls for a set of 4 double-pointed 3¾mm (US 5) needles, which are used throughout the construction for working in the round and shaping the heel and toe sections.

Tension and Gauge

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished size. The pattern specifies 30 stitches and 30 rounds to 10 centimeters measured over rib, and 22 stitches and 30 rounds to 10 centimeters measured over stockinette stitch, both using 3¾mm (US 5) needles. Checking gauge before beginning ensures the socks will fit properly.

Pattern Notes

The cast-on edge should be worked loosely to ensure comfortable stretch around the foot opening. The pattern allows for adjustable foot length, with knitters able to customize the measurement before beginning the toe shaping to accommodate different foot sizes. Both socks are worked identically using the same instructions, making this an efficient pattern for creating a matching pair.