The Prism Socks are a modern geometric design that plays with perspective to create the illusion of three-dimensional boxes wrapping around the leg and foot. As the pattern grows, simple stitches transform into a bold optical illusion that looks far more complex than it is. The repeating motif makes for an engaging knit while creating a striking finished pair that’s sure to stand out. Whether you love clean, contemporary designs or enjoy knitting patterns with a bit of visual magic, the Prism Socks are a fun project that combines texture, geometry, and timeless style into an eye-catching pair you’ll reach for again and again.
Construction Overview These socks are knit top-down and use a straightforward two-color stranded design to form the prism illusion design. A short row heel provides a smooth, contoured fit, while the toe is finished with a grafted seam for a clean look and comfortable wear.

Sizing
1 (2, 3)
To fit foot circumference: 19.5 – 21 (22.5 –24, 25.5-27) cm / 8 (9 ½, 10 ¾) inches.
Finished circumference: 18 (21, 24.5) cm / 7 (8 ½, 9 ¾) inches.
Recommended ease: ~2.5 cm (1 in) of negative ease. Measure around the widest part of your foot for accuracy. Adjustments in length can be made easily — instructions included.
Sample shown: Size 2, for a US women’s 8.5 / EU 39 / UK 6, foot circumference 22.5 cm (8 ½ in).
Materials
Yarn: Fingering weight sock yarn in two colors.
Note: Any fingering weight sock yarn at gauge will work. A blend with nylon is recommended for durability. Approximately 270 yds / 250 m of the main color and 100 yards of the contrast color were used for the sample pair, so plan your yarn choice accordingly.
Needles
Ribbing & stockinette: 2.25 mm (US 1) — choose magic loop, DPNs, or small circulars as preferred.
Colorwork: 2.5 mm (US 1.5).
Adjust needle size as needed to match gauge.
Important note: Be sure to check your gauge. Further sizes can be achieved by going up or down needle sizes.

Gauge
Ribbing & stockinette: 34 sts × 44 rds = 10 cm (4 in). Colorwork: 34 sts × 36 rds = 10 cm (4 in).
Notions
Stitch marker, scissors, tape measure, tapestry needle for sewing in ends.
Colorwork Tips When knitting stranded colorwork, consistency is key. Always hold your yarns the same way, keeping the contrast color yarn crossing under the main color at the back of your work helps the motif stand out.
● Avoid twisting or catching your floats too frequently, as this can create an inelastic fabric.
● I typically don’t catch floats while knitting, but if you prefer, you can catch them every 5–6 stitches to keep strands neat and reduce snagging.
● Try your socks on often during knitting to check fit.
The colourwork chart is read from bottom to top, and right to left.
Short Row Heel You may substitute any short row heel or afterthought heel, as long as you decrease down to the same stitch count given for your size.