Sock sizes for knitting: size chart for 4-ply and 6-ply sock yarn

Knitting your own socks is practical, enjoyable and surprisingly versatile. One question comes up again and again: how many stitches should you cast on for a particular shoe size? Heel height, foot length and the point where the toe decreases begin also vary according to size.

With a reliable sock size chart, you do not need to calculate everything again for every pair. This article contains a complete overview for shoe sizes from 22/23 to 46/47, with separate tables for 4-ply sock yarn and 6-ply sock yarn.

The charts are intended for traditional top-down socks knitted with a set of five double-pointed needles. The stitches are divided over four needles, while the fifth needle is used for knitting.

Why is gauge so important when knitting socks?

A size chart will only give accurate results when your gauge matches the gauge used for the chart. If you knit more loosely or tightly, the sock will become wider or narrower even when you cast on the recommended number of stitches.

For 4-ply sock yarn, the chart is based on:

• approximately 30 stitches and 42 rows over 10 x 10 cm;
• 2 to 2.5 mm needles.

For 6-ply sock yarn, the chart is based on:

• approximately 22 to 23 stitches and 30 to 31 rows over 10 x 10 cm;
• 3 to 4 mm needles.

It is therefore advisable to knit a stocking-stitch swatch before beginning. Wash it in the same way as the finished socks and measure it only after it has dried completely.

Which sock size should you choose?

When knitting socks for yourself, you can start from your usual shoe size. For a more accurate fit, measure the foot from the back of the heel to the tip of the longest toe.

Hand-knitted socks may be slightly shorter than the actual foot length. Knitted fabric stretches during wear, and a sock that is exactly the same length as the foot may become too loose.

The total foot lengths in the charts are guidelines. Measure regularly while knitting and adjust the length to suit the wearer.

Size chart for 4-ply sock yarn

Four-ply sock yarn is the classic weight for fine socks that fit easily inside everyday shoes. The chart is based on 2 to 2.5 mm needles and a gauge of approximately 30 stitches and 42 rows over 10 x 10 cm.

Toe decreases for 4-ply sock yarn

Begin the toe when the foot has reached the length shown in the row “Foot length before toe”. Work the first decrease and continue according to the size instructions.

Size chart for 6-ply sock yarn

Six-ply sock yarn is thicker than 4-ply yarn and is suitable for warmer winter socks, hiking socks and sturdy house socks. The chart is based on 3 to 4 mm needles and a gauge of approximately 22 to 23 stitches and 30 to 31 rows over 10 x 10 cm.

How to read “cast on total / per needle”

For size 38/39 with 4-ply sock yarn, cast on 60 stitches and divide them evenly over four needles: 15 stitches per needle.

With 6-ply sock yarn, cast on 48 stitches for the same size, or 12 stitches per needle.

What does the heel-turn division mean?

A division of 10/10/10 means that 30 heel stitches are divided into three groups of 10. A division of 10/12/10 means that the centre section contains 12 stitches.

When should you begin the toe?

The row “Foot length before toe” shows how far to knit before beginning the toe decreases. Measure from the back of the heel to the knitting needle.

Should you choose 4-ply or 6-ply sock yarn?

Four-ply sock yarn produces thinner, flexible socks that fit easily inside everyday shoes. Six-ply sock yarn produces warmer, sturdier socks suitable for winter boots, walking shoes and house socks.

Tips for well-fitting hand-knitted socks

• Always make a gauge swatch.
• Measure the foot instead of relying only on shoe size.
• Try the sock on while knitting whenever possible.
• Use the same needle size for both socks.
• Write down any adjustments for the second sock.

Buy sock yarn and sock needles at Verelana

At Verelana, you will find sock yarn for both fine and warm hand-knitted socks, together with suitable double-pointed needles and circular needles.

You can order sock yarn and knitting needles online or visit our shop in Sint-Truiden.