Since 2014, when I started designing, I have thought a lot about different increasing techniques for toe-up stockings. As you might know, there are very few thigh high stocking patterns, although there are quite many knee high sock patterns. Both types have a typical grading problem: the patterns usually have “one size fits all” or very few (e.g. three) sizes. I think that this grading is due to two major issues: firstly, there are no standard measurements (for upper parts of legs) in which the designers could write their knee high sock or stockings patterns. Secondly, it is very difficult to increase or decrease stitches in an aesthetical way, if the sock/stocking has lace, cable or other complicated stitch patterns.

Pia ballerinas are easy to knit, beautiful and complex looking stockings that are very customizable.

Size from toe to ankle is determined by foot length (7 options) and foot circumference (8 options), in total 56 size combinations. From ankle up, the size is totally customizable according to your own measurements. They stay up with four rows of elastic bands.

Pia ballerinas were inspired by Södera socks and therefore I asked Vilma Vuori permission to publish this pattern. A special thanks to Vilma, I am very grateful to have one more thigh high stocking pattern in Ravelry :)

Errata (updated September 2019):

• Gusset increases chart is missing from Knotions page. Chart added as a pattern photo (second last one).

• Chart key is also missing from Knotions page. Chart key added as a pattern photo (last one).