Island Socks

**The Island Socks** are almost as simple as a classic sock can be - but the purl-stitch gusset adds a quiet twist. The way those textured lines frame the heel feels a bit like looking at a tiny island emerging from beneath the smooth surface of water. Minimalist, calm, and just different enough to keep the knitting interesting. The socks are worked **cuff down**, beginning with a clean, elastic rib. After the ribbing, the leg is knit in the round in plain stockinette with purl lines on the sides. The heel is worked using a **boomerang (short-row)** construction combined with a **gusset** to ensure a comfortable and well-fitting shape. First, the gusset is formed in the round with increases; then the short rows create the heel turn; and finally, the remaining gusset stitches are decreased in the round to transition smoothly into the foot. The **foot** and **toe** are both worked in the round. The toe is shaped with simple decreases and finished neatly using the **Kitchener Stitch**. A straightforward knit with a small architectural detail - a perfect everyday pair with just enough character to make you smile. **SIZE GUIDE** 1 - EU 14-15 - foot length 8-9 cm (3 ⅛ - 3 ½ in) Newborn 2 - EU 18-19 - foot length 10-12 cm (4 - 4 ¾ in) Baby 3 - EU 20-22 - foot length 14-15 cm (5 ½ - 5 ⅞ in) Toddler 4 - EU 24-26 - foot length 16-18 cm (6¼ - 7 in) 3-4 Years 5 - EU 28-32 - foot length 18-19 cm (7 - 7½ in) 5-7 Years 6 - EU 34-35 - foot length 20-22 cm (7¾ - 8⅝ in) Teen 7 - EU 36-37 - foot length 23-24 cm (9 - 9 ½ in) Adult S 8 - EU 38-39 - foot length 24-25 cm (9 ½ - 9 ⅞ in) Adult M 9 - EU 40-42 - foot length 26-27 cm (10 ¼ - 10 ⅝ in) Adult L 10 - EU 43-44 - foot length 28-29 cm (11 - 11 ⅜ in) Adult XL **YARN** 15 (20) 25 (35) 60 (65) 70 (80) 80 (90) g of any other sock yarn with yardage 50 g - 200 m or 100 g - 400 m. Novita Venla, Regia Merino Yak, Lana Grossa Meilenweit, Cascade Yarns Heritage, Drops Fabel, Rico Design Sock Superba Premium, Alize Superwash, Opal 4-ply **GAUGE** 32 sts x 42 rows = 10x10cm 4x4 in pattern after washing and blocking **NEEDLES** DPNs 2 mm US 0 (for ribbing) and 2.5 mm US 1½ or circular 80-100 cm 32-40 in. You will also need markers and tapestry needle. **DIFFICULTY**: Intermediate