Double Diamond by Toni Blye

Two-stitch twists cross each other challengingly in a mock argyle pattern on this toe up sock with gusset and slip stitch heel. Not quite as hard as a double black diamond ski run, but enough twists and turns that you'll want to pay attention.

When I found myself faced with making socks for someone with relatively conservative tastes, my first thought was what I could do to keep the socks exciting for me, but still classic and simple in appeal. Argyle was an obvious choice. Using traveling twists to form the diamonds instead of blocks of color kept the effect subtle and the knitting engaging. This pattern is inspired by a stitch pattern in the second Vogue Knitting Stitchionary, adapted to work with the sock and to work in the round.

The sock is an advanced knit because there is a lot going on in each 20-row repeat, though by the time you get to the leg, you may have the pattern memorized. Though the pattern is not very repetitive, it does follow a logical progression, especially as you see the pattern emerge. Stockinette on the sole of the foot offers a break at the beginning of the sock, while you get used to the pattern.

Sizes

Women's Small (5-6) [Medium (7-8), Large (9-10)]  (U.S. Sizes)
Actual size: 7 (7.5, 8)" circumference.
Length: 9 (9.5, 10)"
To fit: 7.75 (8.25, 8.75)" (around ball of the foot).

Yarn

Patons Kroy Socks (75% Washable Wool. 25% Nylon; 166 yards [152 meters]/50 grams): Shown in Gentry Grey and Flax
2 (2, 3) balls.

Needles

US#0 (1, 2)  or 2 (2.25, 2.75) mm double pointed needles or equivalent circular needle(s) if using magic loop or 2 circulars.

Gauge

9 (8.5, 8) sts and 13 (12, 11) rows = 1” in St st.

Notions

Tapestry needle, cable needle if desired, 1 removable stitch marker to mark beginning of round, 3 more stitch markers if using to mark each needle if using circulars instead of dpns.