Sock Innovation

Sock Innovation: Knitting Techniques & Patterns for One-Of-A-Kind Socks by Cookie A.

Unconventional, rule-breaking socks are part and parcel in this unique guide to sock knitting that includes 15 new sock patterns. The skills of the average sock knitter are increased through design exploration and advanced stitch manipulation, treating the sock as a knitted canvas where elements are strategically and intentionally placed. New designs of floral lace patterns, angular geometric shapes, and unusual cables are presented along with detailed instructions on modifications to suit needs and aesthetics. The incredible range of style and complexity in this guide runs from sweet and simple to delightfully imaginative.

I received this book for my birthday last fall and while there were a number of patterns in it that I knew I wanted to knit, I've only just now gotten around to trying any of them. For my first Sock Innovation project I decided to go with the simple, yet elegant design that is probably my favorite pattern from the book, Kai-Mei (pages 129-133).

I'm really pleased with the results.

Kai-Mei was inspired by a Renaissance woman. It features a lace panel that begins on one side of the heel flap and crosses diagonally across the top of the foot. Starting the panel from opposite sides makes the left sock a mirror of the right (pictured).

Project details and more photos are available here on Ravelry. If you are a knitter who doesn't have a Ravelry account, go join, you won't regret it.