purlJam

# BASIC CREW SOCKS

A perfect introduction to sock knitting! These classic crew socks are worked from the cuff down using double-pointed needles. The simple construction and clear instructions make this an ideal first sock project.

## MATERIALS
- **Yarn:** 350-400 yards worsted weight yarn (Sample shown in Lion Brand Wool-Ease)
- **Needles:** Set of 5 double-pointed needles (DPNs), US size 7 (4.5mm)
- **Notions:** Tapestry needle, stitch markers (optional)

## GAUGE
20 sts and 26 rounds = 4" (10cm) in stockinette stitch in the round
**Important:** Check your gauge! Socks need to fit snugly for comfort.

## SIZES
Small (Medium, Large, X-Large)
**Foot Length:** 8.5 (9.5, 10.5, 11.5)" / 21.5 (24, 26.5, 29)cm
**Leg Circumference:** 7 (8, 9, 10)" / 18 (20.5, 23, 25.5)cm

## ABBREVIATIONS
- **k:** knit
- **p:** purl
- **k2tog:** knit 2 stitches together
- **ssk:** slip, slip, knit (left-leaning decrease)
- **rnd:** round
- **st(s):** stitch(es)
- **dpn:** double-pointed needle

## NOTES
- Socks are worked in the round from cuff down
- Move stitches between needles as needed to avoid ladders
- Try on sock as you work for best fit
- The heel flap is worked flat, then rejoined to work in the round
- Slip first stitch of every heel flap row for a neat edge

## CUFF
Cast on 36 (40, 44, 48) sts. Divide evenly among 4 dpns: 9 (10, 11, 12) sts per needle.
Join to work in the round, being careful not to twist.

**Rounds 1-20:** *k2, p2; repeat from * around.

## LEG
**Rounds 21-50:** Knit all sts.
(Work 30 rounds total, or desired length to top of heel)

## HEEL FLAP
The heel flap is worked over 18 (20, 22, 24) sts on 2 needles. Place remaining 18 (20, 22, 24) sts on hold for instep.

**Row 1 (RS):** *Sl 1, k1; repeat from * across heel sts.
**Row 2 (WS):** Sl 1, purl to end.

Repeat these 2 rows 17 (19, 21, 23) more times.
[36 (40, 44, 48) rows total]

## HEEL TURN
**Row 1 (RS):** k10 (11, 12, 13), ssk, k1, turn.
**Row 2 (WS):** Sl 1, p3, p2tog, p1, turn.
**Row 3:** Sl 1, k4, ssk, k1, turn.
**Row 4:** Sl 1, p5, p2tog, p1, turn.

Continue in this manner, working 1 more st before the decrease each row, until all sts are worked.
End with 10 (12, 12, 14) sts.

## GUSSET
Pick up and knit 18 (20, 22, 24) sts along left side of heel flap.
Work across 18 (20, 22, 24) instep sts in stockinette.
Pick up and knit 18 (20, 22, 24) sts along right side of heel flap.
Knit across heel sts.

**Total:** 64 (72, 78, 86) sts

### Gusset Decreases
**Round 1:** 
- Needle 1: Knit to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1
- Needle 2: Knit across instep sts
- Needle 3: k1, ssk, knit to end
- Needle 4: Knit all sts

**Round 2:** Knit all sts.

Repeat these 2 rounds until 36 (40, 44, 48) sts remain.

## FOOT
Continue in stockinette stitch until foot measures 6.5 (7.5, 8.5, 9.5)" from back of heel, or 2" less than desired total foot length.

## TOE SHAPING
Rearrange sts so instep sts are on 2 needles and sole sts are on 2 needles.

**Round 1:**
- Needle 1: Knit to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1
- Needle 2: k1, ssk, knit to end
- Needle 3: Knit to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1  
- Needle 4: k1, ssk, knit to end

**Round 2:** Knit all sts.

Repeat these 2 rounds until 16 (16, 20, 20) sts remain.
Then work Round 1 only until 8 sts remain.

## FINISHING
Cut yarn, leaving 12" tail. Thread through tapestry needle and draw through remaining sts twice. Pull tight and secure on inside of sock.

Weave in all ends. Block lightly if desired.

**Congratulations on completing your first pair of socks!**

### Tips for Success:
- Keep your tension consistent but not too tight
- Use a lifeline after completing the heel turn if you're nervous
- Don't worry if your first sock isn't perfect - each one gets easier!
- Make the second sock immediately while the pattern is fresh in your mind