Broken Seed Stitch Socks - Outlaw Edition
Broken Seed Stitch Socks on Twig and Horn Medium Sock Blockers
Stitch Method: Broken Seed Stitch Socks by Hanna Leväniemi
Sock Pattern: Astrantia Socks by Helen Stewart found in the Handmade Sock Society
Pattern Size: Small
My Shoe Size: US 8
Yarn: Outlaw Yarn Sock Bandit (Limited Edition) colour ways Tomfoolery Sprinkles (50g) and Intrepid Jelly (50g)
Needles: 2.5mm ChiaoGoo Twist Red Lace Mini Interchangeable
Cast on method: Long tail
Knitted two at a time, magic loop method
Ribbing: In accordance with Broken Seed Stitch Socks method
Heel: German short row
Cast off method: Kitchener stitch
Blocked in lukewarm water with Twig and Horn Wool Soap Bar, Rosewood scent and Twig and Horn Medium Argyle Sock Blockers
I always have a pair of socks on the go, there is something satisfying and methodical in their process and construction (they are also small enough to discretely keep in my handbag when out and about). I was lucky enough to get my hands on a ball each of the Outlaw Yarn Sock Bandit Tomfoolery Sprinkles and Intrepid Jelly when released and wanted to do something complementary with the two balls. The broken seed stitch sock is more of a guidance of structure applied to a sock pattern and although simple in process, the outcome adds depth and excitement to two simple balls of yarn. I decided to apply this method to the Astrantia sock pattern by Helen Stewart, I have knitted up some of Helen’s patterns in the past and always find them well written, easy to execute and beautiful finish. The appeal of the Astrantia socks was the German short row heels which I have not encountered before.
I find knitting two socks at a time the most satisfying, there is nothing better than casting off knowing you don’t have to endure the process all over again for a second sock. I prefer magic loop knitting to DPN, this could be my infatuation with me trusty ChiaoGoo needles which I cannot live without. The socks were easily constructed with alternating rows of solid and variegated colours in a simple stitch which looks more complicated than it is. The German short rows were the quickest heels I have ever constructed, with no picking up stitches in the heel. I must admit I would prefer a deeper and reinforced heel after wearing the socks, and will likely substitute in a traditional heel turn and gusset when faced with German short rows again.
Due to the nature of the yarn I soaked the socks in lukewarm water to prevent substantial bleeding. Minor bleeding did occur. I used the Twig and Horn Wool Soap Bar which contains lanolin and does not leave any residue on rinsing. The socks were left to block on my Twig and Horn Argyle sock blockers for a few days due to a fall in temperature as we settle into Autumn. I will likely re-block the socks come the end of winter as I find it resets and increases the life of my socks.
I am keen to attempt the broken seed stitch socks again using monochrome solid yarn, with colourful ribbing, heels and toes. But for now I will be casting on my next pair of “socks” the Elve Slippers from Laine 52 Weeks of Socks.
