Shimai Socks

In Japanese, **shimai** means 'sisters'. This pattern is for two mirror-image socks, inspired by Japanese cables and my two very different (but equally amazing) sisters. **TECHNIQUES** The Shimai Socks are worked cuff-down, featuring a cuff in half-twisted rib, my own heel design (a modified Strong heel) with slip-stitch reinforcement, short row heel turn, and asymmetrical wedge toe. The ‘cables’ use “right twist” and “left twist” stitches – easy to learn and no cable needle required! Lifted increases are suggested for their ease and subtlety. **INSTRUCTIONS & DIFFICULTY** Detailed written instructions are given, with links to videos for special stitches (right twist, left twist, and lifted increases). The pattern uses small charts for cables, so these socks are an intermediate level knit requiring some basic chart reading. **MATERIALS** * Approximately 350 m of 4-ply (fingering) weight sock yarn. Choose a light-coloured, solid or semi-solid yarn to make the cables pop. I used “Patonyle Merino 4 ply” in the colourway “Silver”. * US size 1 / 2.25 mm circular needles or DPNs (I use 32” circulars with the “Improved Magic Loop” technique). * Three stitch markers * A tapestry needle for weaving in ends Thank you to my lovely testers!