Wild Raspberry Socks

Wild Raspberry Socks by Sophie McKane

What is Being Made

Wild Raspberry Socks is a downloadable knitting pattern designed by Sophie McKane for Unicorn Designs. This project creates a pair of colorwork socks featuring a vibrant raspberry-inspired design. The pattern is available in multiple sizes ranging from children's (XXS and XS, fitting ages 4–13) to adult sizes (S, M, and L), making it a versatile design suitable for the whole family. The sample shown is in size S, designed to fit US Women's 8–9 (UK Women's 6–7, EUR 39).

Techniques and Construction

These socks are constructed using the magic loop method or double-pointed needles, worked in the round to create seamless, tubular fabric. The pattern employs two-color stranded colorwork (also called Fair Isle knitting), combining a main color with a contrasting color to create the raspberry motif. This intermediate-level technique requires managing two yarns simultaneously while maintaining even tension across color changes. The socks are worked from the cuff down, and the pattern includes blocking instructions to achieve the finished dimensions and even out the colorwork.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is stockinette stitch worked in the round, which creates the smooth, classic sock fabric. Stockinette in circular knitting (also called jersey stitch) produces a V-pattern of interlocking loops that lies flat and drapes elegantly. The colorwork sections are integrated into this stockinette base using the stranded knitting technique, where unused yarn is carried along the inside of the fabric. This creates a denser, more insulating fabric ideal for socks.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for 4-ply (fingering weight) yarn, which is thin enough to create well-fitting, non-bulky socks while remaining durable for repeated wear. The sample was knitted using Eden Cottage Yarns Brimham 4ply in Steel (main color) and Wild Notions Raspberry (contrast color). The Raspberry yarn is composed of 85% superwash Merino and 15% nylon, a blend that provides softness, breathability, and added durability through the nylon content. The pattern specifies approximately 45–75g of main color yarn and 14–24g of contrast color yarn depending on the size chosen, with the sample using 61g (265 yards/245 meters) of main color and 19g (85 yards/75 meters) of contrast color.

Knitters may substitute any fingering or 4-ply sock yarn of similar yardage and fiber content. The gauge is 32 stitches and 40 rounds over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in stockinette stitch, worked in the round and blocked. Needles required are US 1.5/2.5mm double-pointed needles or a long circular needle for the magic loop method. Additional notions include 3 stitch markers and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Sizing Information

• XXS: Finished leg/foot circumference 6 inches (15 cm); fits average 4–9 year-olds
• XS: Finished leg/foot circumference 7 inches (18 cm); fits average 10–13 year-olds
• S: Finished leg/foot circumference 8 inches (20.5 cm); adult size
• M: Finished leg/foot circumference 9 inches (23 cm); adult size
• L: Finished leg/foot circumference 10 inches (25.5 cm); adult size

The pattern recommends measuring the intended wearer's foot circumference for the most accurate fit before beginning.