Optic Socks by Emma Barnaby

Optic Socks

Knitting
October 2026
Wool2dye4 Highland Sport
Sport (12 wpi) ?
32 stitches = 4 inches
in Stockinette (colorwork)
US 2 - 2.75 mm
300 - 400 yards (274 - 366 m)
Women's M (can size up or down with needles)
English
This pattern is available for $5.00 USD buy it now

The Optic Socks are a great first colorwork sock pattern! These are best knit in high-contrast yarns that will show off the fun interlocking pattern that creates something almost like an optical illusion.

These socks are worked from the cuff down, starting with 2x2 rib. You will work the colorwork pattern on the leg in the round, then work the heel using the Shadow Wrap short-row technique (or your favorite short-row, forethought, or afterthought heel), and finally continue down the foot in the same pattern before closing with a wedge toe and grafting the sock using Kitchener Stitch.

These socks are written for Magic-Loop style knitting, but you can substitute any sock needles you prefer - DPNs, two circulars, or shorties will work just fine. If you use shorties, be sure to keep a spare longer needle on hand for the heel (or choose an afterthought or forethought heel instead).

The sample was knitted in Tiny Desk Knitting High-Twist Sport, available on Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TinyDeskKnitting