Taming of the Fox

Taming of the Fox Knitted Socks by Janelle Martin

What Is Being Made

Taming of the Fox is a pair of intermediate-level knitted socks designed by independent designer Janelle Martin. This downloadable PDF pattern creates fitted socks with a fox-inspired design that incorporates stitch patterns reminiscent of sheaves of wheat. The socks are available in three sizes—Small, Medium, and Large—with finished foot circumferences ranging from 6.5 inches (16.25 cm) to 8.5 inches (21.25 cm) when blocked, fitting feet up to 9.5 to 11.5 inches depending on size selection.

Techniques and Construction

This knitting pattern employs classic sock construction techniques suitable for intermediate knitters. The design uses circular needles for the main body of the sock, allowing for seamless knitting in the round. The cuff is worked on double-pointed needles, which are two sizes larger than the needles used for the primary sock body, creating a subtle textural transition. The pattern incorporates stitch work that evokes imagery of wheat sheaves, contributing to the fox-themed aesthetic that inspired the design when paired with The Sanguine Gryphon 'Eidos' yarn in the Taxis colorway.

Stitches Used

The pattern is worked primarily in stockinette stitch (st st) for the main gauge measurement of 34 stitches and 46 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when unblocked. Additional stitch patterns are incorporated throughout the sock design to create the decorative fox-inspired motif and wheat-sheaf texturing, though specific stitch abbreviations and detailed stitch instructions are contained within the full PDF pattern.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

• Yarn: 400 yards (366 meters) of any fingering weight yarn with a gauge of 8.5 stitches per inch. The pattern is shown worked in The Sanguine Gryphon 'Eidos' in the Taxis colorway, which is 100% merino fiber, providing 420 yards (384 meters) per 4-ounce (113-gram) skein. One skein is required to complete the pair of socks in the Medium size.
• Needles: US #1.5/2.25 mm circular needles measuring 16 inches (40 cm) for the main sock body, or a size adjusted to obtain the specified gauge. US #2/2.75 mm double-pointed needles (set of 4) are used for working the cuff, or any needle two sizes larger than the main needles.

Yarn Weight and Gauge

This pattern is designed for fingering weight yarn (4-ply), which is ideal for creating fitted, detailed socks with excellent stitch definition. The specified gauge of 34 stitches and 46 rows to 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch, measured unblocked, ensures proper fit and drape. Knitters should always swatch and adjust needle sizes as necessary to match this gauge before beginning the project.