This pattern includes a second PDF version that is formatted for knitters with low vision. It has black text, size 22 or larger text in a sans serif font, no italics, no columns, and fully-written directions. Many thanks to Gemma Thompson (gemmabelle here on Rav) for her guidance in formatting patterns in a more accessible way.

One challenge when you fall in love with someone is the question of what happens when one of the partners screws up in a spectacular fashion. Romance writers love to play with the most disastrous incarnations of those relationship screw-ups, to see how far they can push partners before their reconciliation makes no sense anymore.

And a key factor in that? A good grovel. The more somebody screws up, the better their apology needs to be, at least as far as I’m concerned. The road to a really good grovel will involve layers, some thorny twists and turns, sparklingly wonderful moments that make the partners want to stick it out and find a way forward, and most importantly, a satisfying resolution.

In fact, it’s not unlike the front panel on these socks, which I designed with some particularly good grovels in mind. These socks are knit from the cuff down and graded to five sizes. They feature a richly cabled front panel and a simple stockinette back. A heel flap and gusset provide an adjustable fit, while the socks are finished with a classic wedge toe.

SIZES

1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Finished sock dimensions: 6.5” (16.5 cm), 7.5” (19 cm), 8.5” (21.5 cm), 9.5” (24 cm), 10.5” (26.5 cm) circumference (Note: most people like their socks snug, so choose a finished sock size that is slightly smaller than your actual foot)

MATERIALS

Fingering weight yarn, 280-440 yds (256-403 m)

Sample shown knit in Malabrigo Ultimate Sock, 75% Superwash Merino Wool, 25% Nylon, 420 yds (385 m) per 100 g (3.5 oz), colorway Pearl

GAUGE

4” (10 cm) square = 32 stitches x 41 rows in stockinette

NEEDLES

One set of needles for your preferred style of small-circumference knitting in a size to match gauge listed above

Suggested needle size: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

TOOLS

One stitch marker for beginning of round; two optional additional markers for edges of textured panel on front of sock

Optional cable needle

Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

SKILL LEVEL

Intermediate

Techniques: decreases, cabling, knitting in the round, stockinette stitch grafting