Ex Libris Socks by Helen Stewart

Ex Libris Socks

Knitting
Fingering (14 wpi) ?
32 stitches and 46 rows = 4 inches
in Stockinette
US 1 - 2.25 mm
383 - 435 yards (350 - 398 m)
Small, Medium, Large
English

Ex Libris — from the library of… A tiny phrase, but a meaningful one. Found in the corners of old bookplates, it marks a book as beloved. Part of someone’s personal story. A treasure in a private, cherished library, whether that’s a grand room lined with shelves or a single curated stack on a bedside table. Those delicate bookplates, with their gentle flourishes and faded ink, speak to the quiet intimacy of reading and collecting, and the ways we leave traces of ourselves in the things we care about.

The Ex Libris Socks are a tribute to that tradition of personal libraries and the little works of art that label them. The design begins with a snug 1x1 twisted rib cuff. The leg features a lace panel inspired by the graceful botanical illustrations and delicate borders of classic bookplates. A classic eye of partridge heel adds a layer of texture, comfort, and durability, and a soft rounded toe. Worked from the top down, these socks offer a rhythmic, relaxing knit with a touch of poetry. The pattern includes three sizes, and as always, you’re welcome to substitute your favourite heel or toe techniques for a perfect personal fit.

Size
Small (Medium, Large)

Finished Measurements
To fit approx. foot circumference of 7 (8, 9)“ /17.5 (20, 22.5) cm.

Yarn
Voolenvine Wolke 80% superwash merino, 10% cashmere, 10% nylon, 400m/435yds per 100g skein, 1 x skein
Colour: Plot Twists

Or 80g (320m/350yds) of fingering weight yarn.

Needles
2.25mm (US 1), 100cm (40”) long circular needles (or size to obtain gauge) for magic loop method or DPNs if preferred

Notions
Tapestry needle
3 stitch markers

Gauge
32 sts/46 rounds = 10cm (4”) in stockinette stitch