The Deimatic Sock Knitting Pattern

Some species of octopus, when frightened, will exhibit a sudden change in coloration to confuse or distract a predator. This allows the octopus time to escape. When an animal uses this technique to protect itself, it’s called deimatic behavior.

Arrow

The Deimatic Socks are inspired by the majestic octopus, which also happens to be the emblem of Sea Change Fibers, who provided the yarn for this design. These socks feature front and back panels of cabled coin lace that twists back and forth. There are two columns of coin lace and two panels on each sock, for a total of eight columns per pair of socks–just like the eight tentacles of an octopus.

Construction

These socks are knit from the cuff down with a 1×1 twisted rib cuff. The heel is constructed with a classic heel flap and gusset for the snuggest and most customizable fit, and the socks end with a wedge toe.

Sizes

The Deimatic Socks are graded for three sizes: 7” (18 cm), 8” (20 cm), and 9” (23 cm) circumference.   Most people like their socks snug, so I recommend choosing a finished sock size that is slightly smaller than your actual foot.

Yarn

This pattern uses 300-400 yards (274-366m) of fingering weight yarn. I knit my sample in Sea Change Fibers Littoral Merino Fingering, which is 100% Falklands merino wool, 435 yds (398 m) per 3.5 oz (100g). I chose the colorway Lunar Eclipse.

Needles and Notions

You'll need one set of needles for your preferred style of small-circumference knitting. The suggested needle size is US 1.5/2.5 mm. You'll also need one stitch marker for beginning of round, optional additional markers between pattern repeats, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Techniques

This is an intermediate pattern. It uses cables, increases and decreases, knitting in the round, and Kitchener stitch grafting.

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