Pattern Description from Interweave Knits, Spring 2009: “Bettie’s Lace Stockings use an easy but intricate-looking lace motif in long vertical stripes for a pair of stockings with vintage delicacy and sheerness - without using gossamer-light yarn. Working on only a handful of stitches, Hana Jason incorporates calf shaping into the lace motif, resulting in a stretchy, clingy stocking that stay up. A sweet picot bind-off and an eyelet round at the knee look modern on their own - or sweetly vintage with a ribbon garter.”

Finished Size: 7½“ foot circumference; 8¾” from back of heel to tip of toe. One size fits most (see Notes). Sample socks modeled on a woman’s U.S. size 8½ foot.

Yarn: Rowan 4 Ply Soft (100% merino; 191 yd 175 m/50 g): #389 expresso (dark brown), 2 balls. Yarn distributed by Westminster Fibers.

Needles: Size 2 (2.75 mm): set of 4 double-pointed (dpn). Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.

Notions: Removable marker (m); waste yarn for provisional CO; stitch holder (optional); thin elastic or ribbon (optional); tapestry needle.

Notes:

• The lace pattern of this stocking is extremely stretchy both horizontally and vertically. Size may be customized by working more or fewer repeats of the lace pattern on the foot and before and/or after the calf increases or by changing needle sizes. Stitches may be placed on waste yarn or a circular needle to try on to ensure correct fit. When worn, fabric should be slightly stretched for best effect. Stockings will look most attractive, and stay up best, when the fabric hugs the leg and foot.
• Though these socks look intricate, the unusual lacy pattern is extremely easy to work. It’s also very stretchy, so the sock is worked over a smaller number of stitches than usual, making for a surprisingly quick knit.
• Increases to accommodate the calf are done all in one round, by increasing the width of each vertical insertion. Pattern may be found on page 100 and photos on page 45.