Type
Knitting
Difficulty
intermediate
Category
custom
AI Thinking Process
Planning
1. **Analysis**: The user requires a knitting pattern for adult leg warmers using DK weight yarn and a Waffle Stitch. The difficulty is intermediate. Key constraints are UK terminology, metric measurements, and strict technical editing (showing math). Waffle stitch structure dictates the stitch count multiples.
2. **Reference Classes**:
* *Classic Ribbed Leg Warmers*: Standard tube construction with negative ease to stay up.
* *Thermal Stitch Socks*: References the specific behavior of waffle/thermal stitches (tendency to draw in horizontally like ribbing).
* *Seamless Boot Cuffs*: References the need for tighter cuffs at the top and bottom to prevent sliding.
3. **Edge Cases**:
* *Slouching/Sliding*: Waffle stitch is heavy. The pattern must use smaller needles for the ribbing and high-elasticity rib (K2, P2) to ensure grip.
* *Pattern Disruption*: Waffle stitch relies on a specific multiple (usually 3 or 4). Shaping (decreases) can look messy. I will design a straight tube with high negative ease, relying on the fabric's natural stretch to fit the calf, rather than complex shaping.
* *Tight Cast-off*: Beginners often cast off too tightly for leg wear. I will specify a stretchy cast-off method.
4. **Plan**:
* **Yarn**: DK Weight (approx 225m total).
* **Tension**: 24 sts = 10cm in pattern (Waffle stitch draws in).
* **Sizes**: S/M (30cm circ unstretched) and L/XL (35cm circ unstretched).
* **Needles**: 3.5mm (rib) and 4.0mm (main).
* **Stitch Count**: S/M (72 sts), L/XL (84 sts). Both numbers work for K2, P2 rib (multiple of 4) and the selected Waffle pattern (multiple of 3).
Verification
[PRE-FLIGHT CHECKS]
1. **Completeness**: All template sections (Title, Sizes, Materials, Tension, Abbreviations, Instructions, Finishing) are included.
2. **Consistency**:
* S/M: 72 sts. Rib (4-st repeat) = 18 repeats. Waffle (3-st repeat) = 24 repeats. Compatible.
* L/XL: 84 sts. Rib (4-st repeat) = 21 repeats. Waffle (3-st repeat) = 28 repeats. Compatible.
* Tension: 24 sts / 10cm. 72 sts = 30cm. 84 sts = 35cm. Leg warmers require negative ease (smaller than the leg) to stay up. An average calf is 35-40cm. These dimensions provide correct negative ease.
3. **Constraints**: UK English used. DK weight. Metric measurements. Inline math included.
4. **Safety**: Circular knitting avoids bulky seams. Stretchy bind-off warning added.
Pattern
# Cotswold Waffle Leg Warmers
**Description**
These intermediate-level leg warmers feature a rich, textured waffle stitch that traps heat effectively while providing excellent elasticity. Designed to be knitted in the round for a seamless finish, they feature deep ribbed cuffs to ensure they stay securely in place on the calf and ankle.
**Difficulty Level**
Intermediate
**Sizes**
* **S/M**: To fit calf circumference 30–36cm (12–14in). Finished circumference (unstretched): 30cm.
* **L/XL**: To fit calf circumference 36–44cm (14–17in). Finished circumference (unstretched): 35cm.
* *Length*: 35cm (adjustable).
**Materials**
* **Yarn**: Approximately 225m (246yds) of DK weight yarn. Wool or wool-blend suggested for structure and memory.
* **Needles**:
* 3.5mm (UK 9-10 / US 4) double-pointed needles or circular needle (if using magic loop) for Ribbing.
* 4.0mm (UK 8 / US 6) double-pointed needles or circular needle for Main Body.
* **Notions**: Stitch marker, tapestry needle, measuring tape.
**Tension (Gauge)**
24 stitches and 36 rounds to 10cm (4in) measured over Waffle Stitch Pattern using 4.0mm needles, unstretched.
*Note: It is vital to check your tension. If you have too many stitches per 10cm, try a larger needle. If you have too few, try a smaller needle.*
**Terminology & Abbreviations (UK Terms)**
* **k**: knit
* **p**: purl
* **sts**: stitches
* **rnd(s)**: round(s)
* **rep**: repeat
* **RS**: right side (outside of the work)
**Stitch Patterns**
*2x2 Rib (Multiple of 4 sts)*
* **Rnd 1**: *K2, p2; rep from * to end.
*Waffle Stitch (in the round - Multiple of 3 sts)*
* **Rnds 1 & 2**: *K1, p2; rep from * to end.
* **Rnds 3 & 4**: Knit all sts.
---
### Instructions
**Top Cuff**
Using 3.5mm needles, cast on **72 (84)** sts loosely. Place marker to indicate beginning of round and join in the round, being careful not to twist the stitches.
Work in 2x2 Rib (k2, p2) for 5cm.
`[Math Check: 72 sts / 4 = 18 repeats] OR [84 sts / 4 = 21 repeats]`
**Main Body**
Switch to 4.0mm needles.
*Setup Round*: Knit all stitches to establish the transition.
`[Stitch Count: Remains 72 (84) sts]`
Begin Waffle Stitch pattern:
**Rnd 1**: *K1, p2; rep from * to end.
**Rnd 2**: As Rnd 1.
**Rnd 3**: Knit.
**Rnd 4**: Knit.
Continue working these 4 rounds until the leg warmer measures 30cm from the cast-on edge, or 5cm less than your desired total length. End after completing Rnd 4 of the pattern.
`[Math Check: 72 sts / 3 = 24 repeats] OR [84 sts / 3 = 28 repeats]`
**Bottom Cuff**
Switch back to 3.5mm needles.
Work in 2x2 Rib (k2, p2) for 5cm.
`[Stitch Count: Remains 72 (84) sts]`
**Finishing**
Cast off loosely in rib pattern (knit the knits and purl the purls).
*Tip: To ensure the edge is not too tight, use a larger needle (e.g., 4.5mm) in your right hand to cast off, or use the "Jeny's Surprisingly Stretchy Bind-Off" method.*
Weave in all ends on the wrong side. Block gently; do not iron, as this flattens the waffle texture.
---
**Schematic Dimensions**
* Total Length: 35cm
* Cuff Height: 5cm
* Body Height: 25cm
Disclaimer: This pattern was generated by AI and should be reviewed for accuracy before use. While we strive for quality, AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify measurements, stitch counts, and instructions before beginning your project. Generated by purlJam.uk
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