MDK Field Guide No. 27: Sock Odyssey

Cuff-Down Yak-Silk Socks. In an elegant departure from the familiar ribbed cuff, Fatimah begins the cables right at the top of the cuff. Choose your own mix of cables from the six on offer, or knit your socks to match the two variations shown. Why do these socks feel incredible? The yarn: Serendipitous Wool’s exquisite blend of merino, yak, and silk—all natural fibers, soft and also sturdy. Cuff-Down Tweed Socks. What if a cable sock also has stripes? The fun factor is multiplied, that’s what. The main yarn here is a rich tweed, Agni T, created by Shobha Nadarajah in subtly shifting colors. The contrasting stripes are worked with a mini skein of Agni N. Toe-Up Lace Socks. An asymmetrically offset cable panel of the knitter’s choosing, framed by lines of modern lace: these socks are fresh and distinctive; the pattern explains exactly how to place the cables for this unusual effect. The beginning of the toe is a magic trick. The yarn: Pinto Bean by Lolabean Yarn Co., dyed by Adella Colvin, whose vibrant colors and famous speckles bring sheer joy to these socks. Toe-Up Knee Socks. The knee socks de résistance! We gasped when we saw the first photographs of these impeccably designed knee socks. Every detail is delightful. The toe-up construction means you can try these on as you go, to get the perfect length and calf fit. The yarn: Pinto Bean by Lolabean Yarn Co., shown here in the majestic shade Strange Brew.