This pattern comes with two separate downloads in medium and large sizing.

Because of the differing stitch counts between sizes, two versions have been created. The larger size is designed to be unisex to fit both men and women.

About the concept:

Ganseys were knitted, functional sweaters worn by those who needed to be able to move freely in an age when garments were almost without exception heavy, stiff, tailored and restrictive. They originated with the sea folk of the British Isles - fishermen, sailors and the navy, who needed to wear garments that would be warm, wind and waterproof while allowing ease of movement.

Typical patterning featured vertical or horizontal bands of knit and purl patterns and some cabling, inspired by the seascape and tools of their trade. The fancier ganseys were kept for ‘best’, with plainer, workday ganseys knitted with practicality and ease of repair in mind. The gansey from the island of Eriskay was known as the most ornately patterned gansey of the British Isles, and featured elaborate knit and purl patterns, cabling and lace. This pattern is the sock version of a modern take on the Eriskay gansey.

Other materials required: Two stitch markers and a cable needle.

Finished measurement:
Medium leg circumference is 19cm/7.5”.
Large leg circumference is 21cm/8.25”.

Gauge: If you normally get 9sts to an inch in your sock, the pattern should still work. There is some cabling, but the effect is countered by the use of other stitches.

Yarn choice: To get the full effect of a gansey-like sock, I suggest using a yarn with full body and good stitch definition. Eg. Wollmeise Twin, Ozifarmer, Spud & Chloe Fine Sock, Vintage Purls Sock, Meraki Studios Sock, or Whimzy Sokkusu. I have used a single colour, but if you are using a variegated yarn, it should be fine as long as the variegation doesn’t fight stitch definition.

Needles: The pattern is needle agnostic. I provide tips on how to divide the stitches for all of DPNs, magic loop and short circulars.