Waves Socks – Free Knitting Pattern

There’s nothing like pulling on a pair of cozy handknit socks at the end of the day. This simple pattern uses a gentle scallop stitch to create soft “wave” textures that look lovely but are easy enough for even a confident beginner sock knitter.
Whether you knit these for yourself or as a handmade gift, they’re sure to become a favorite pair for lounging, reading, or keeping your toes warm on chilly nights.

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What you need

Yarn: 1 ball Lion Brand Wool-Ease or any light worsted weight yarn (approx. 100 g / 197 yds)

 

Needles: Size US 6 (4.25 mm) double-pointed needles, set of 5

 

Gauge: 24 sts = 4″ in stockinette

 

Size: Women’s medium

 

Instructions

Stitch Pattern – Scallop Stitch

Rnds 1, 2, 3, 5: Knit all around

 

Rnds 4 and 6: P2, slip 3 sts with yarn in front of work (repeat around)

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cuff

Cast on 40 sts, divide 10 sts per needle, and join carefully.

 

Work 1½” in K1, P1 ribbing.

 

Leg

Begin Scallop Stitch Pattern, repeating the 6 rounds until the leg measures about 6″ from ribbing (or your desired length).

 

End with Round 2.

 

Heel Flap

Place 20 sts from needles 1 and 4 onto one needle.

 

Sl 1, p1, k1 across.

 

Continue for 14 rows, ending with the right side facing you.

 

Turn Heel

Row 1: Sl 1, k13, skp, turn.

 

Row 2: Sl 1, p6, p2tog, turn.

 

Row 3: Sl 1, k6, skp, turn.

 

Repeat last 2 rows until all stitches are worked. (8 sts remain on heel needle)

 

Gussets

Pick up 9 sts along left heel side.

 

Work needles 2 and 3 in scallop pattern.

 

Pick up 9 sts along right heel side.

 

Knit 4 sts from heel needle onto this needle, place the remaining 4 heel sts onto the left needle.

 

Decrease Round:

Needle 1: Knit to last 3 sts, SKP, k1.

 

Needles 2 & 3: Continue pattern.

 

Needle 4: K1, k2tog, knit to end.

 

Repeat this decrease every other round until you are back to 40 sts total.

Foot

Continue in scallop pattern until the foot measures 1½” less than desired length.

 

Toe

Decrease Round:

Needle 1: Knit to last 3 sts, SKP, k1.

 

Needle 2: K1, k2tog, knit to end.

 

Needle 3: Knit to last 3 sts, SKP, k1.

 

Needle 4: K1, k2tog, knit to end.

 

Work 2 plain rounds.

 

(Decrease round, 1 plain round) × 3.

 

Then work decrease round every round until 8 sts remain (4 on each needle).

 

Finish by grafting toe with Kitchener stitch.

Finishing Touches

Weave in ends and block lightly to shape. Slip them on and enjoy your handmade waves of comfort!