Alba

(The 4 images above show 2 feet wearing handknit socks in light blue yarn. The pattern is textured - long knit stitches over a field of purls. The cuff is folded and has a picot finished edge.) 

Alba is designed for maximum visual impact with minimal effort. Enjoy a relaxing knit and see the pattern magically revealed when you turn the sock right-side out at the end!

This sock is knit inside-out, from the toe up with a gusset and heel flap, and is finished with a folded cuff, achieving a reverse-stockinette pattern and a princess sole without as much purling. There are optional instructions for working calf increases on page 6. This pattern looks best in solid, semi-solid, or tonal yarn. 

A low-vision version of the pattern is also available. This version is written in 24 point sans serif font (Arial) in all black text. It has no italics. All of the directions are fully written out.

Finished sizes
7 (8, 9, 10) in / 18 (20.5, 23, 25.5) cm 
To fit
8 (9, 10, 11) in / 20.5 (23, 25.5, 28) cm 
...with approx. 1 in / 2.5 cm negative ease
Instructions for optional calf-shaping are provided in pattern.
Yarn
Light fingering or fingering weight yarn in wool, a wool blend, or other fiber with good stretch and memory; avoid fiber that grows when worn or is particularly slinky or drapey. Fiber should be naturally hard-wearing enough for socks (polwarth, BFL), or have some nylon or silk for strength. Avoid single-ply.
Sample shown in Miss Babs Hot Shot in Ocean Breeze.  (80% merino, 20% nylon)
Yardage
317 (386, 475, 543) yd / 290 (353, 434, 496) m
Gauge
32 st, 50 rows over 4 in / 10 cm stockinette in the round, stretched
Materials
US 0 / 2.00 mm, or size needed to obtain gauge
This pattern is written for magic loop.
Notions
embroidery needle
stitch markers
Sample
Sample was knit in size 8 in / 20.5 cm and used 350 yd / 320 m. It is shown on a 9 in foot.

Sharing photos of your work? Tag @laur_oftheblings on instagram and use hashtags #AlbaSock and #LOTBKnits
This pattern was tech-edited by Snooptiggercrafts.