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KnittingDK (Double Knitting)
Terminology
Festive Christmas Stocking
A classic Christmas stocking with a Fair Isle cuff. Hang it by the fireplace and fill it with treats.
Yarn needed
1 x 100g ball MC + 1 x 50g ball CC
~120g total · ~350 metres
Time
1-2 weekends
IntermediateFinished size
Approx. 45cm long
What you'll need
- 1 x 100g ball DK yarn in red (MC)
- 1 x 50g ball DK yarn in white or cream (CC)
- A pair of 4mm (UK 8 / US 6) knitting needles
- A wool/darning needle
Tension: 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10cm in stocking stitch on 4mm needles.
Abbreviations
kknit
ppurl
k2togknit two together
sskslip, slip, knit (a left-leaning decrease)
MC / CCmain colour / contrast colour
Step-by-step instructions
1. Cuff
- 1Using CC, cast on 60 stitches with 4mm needles.
- 2Work 5 rows of garter stitch, then 10 rows of a simple Fair Isle check (*k1MC, k1CC* alternating each row).
- 3Continue in MC in stocking stitch for 6cm.
2. Heel
- 1Work across the first 30 stitches only (the heel flap): work 20 rows of stocking stitch.
- 2Turn the heel: k17, ssk, k1, turn. P6, p2tog, p1, turn. Continue short rows until all heel stitches are worked.
3. Foot and toe
- 1Pick up stitches along the heel flap sides and work the foot in stocking stitch for about 18cm (or until it reaches the toe area).
- 2Shape the toe: decrease at each side every row (*k to 3 before marker, k2tog, k1, ssk* on each side) until 8 stitches remain. Thread yarn through and pull tight.
4. Finish
- 1Sew the back seam and sole. Add a hanging loop at the back of the cuff with a crocheted or knitted chain.
- 2Weave in all ends. Embroider a name or initial in CC if you like.
Top tip: Make one for every family member — start early, as these make perfect gifts that get brought out year after year.