This sock pattern is inspired by the colourwork mitts that Bernie Sanders wore at the 2021 US presidential inauguration, which led to the iconic meme pics that went viral and spread joy across the world. Bernie has since explained - he was just trying to keep warm and concentrate on what was happening which typifies Bernie and his honest, down to earth attitude to life. A man who has dedicated his life raising awareness on poverty, fighting for equal rights and conserving the environment in the US, he is an inspiration globally.

The original mitts that these socks are based on, were sewn by Vermont teacher Jen Ellis, out of recycled old sweaters. Embracing Sander’s passion for education and the environment, this pattern is free but keeping in Bernie`s spirit, I would like to suggest if you are able to, to donate what you would normally pay for a pattern to a charity that is focusing on poverty, education, equal rights or the environment local to you.

These socks are knit from the cuff down with a 2 x 2 ribbed cuff, an easy colourwork pattern on the leg and foot and a heel-flap and gusset. This pattern uses the magic loop circular needle method (but can be knit with dpns).

Sizes
S, (M, L) Size is based on circumference of the foot. Length can be adjusted by knitting more or less for the foot.
Size 1 – Foot circumference 19 – 20.5cm / 7.5” (approx.)
Size 2 – Foot circumference 20.5 – 23 cm / 8.5” (approx.)
Size 3 – Foot circumference 23 – 24.5 cm / 9.5” (approx.)
By going up or down a needle size you can create further size adjustments

Gauge for Colourwork section: 34 sts x 40 rnds
Gauge for stockinette section: 40 sts x 50 rnds

Needles required (for knitting in the round):
Size 2.25mm / US size 1 (for ribbing stockinette sections)
Size 2.5mm / US size 1.5 (for colourwork sections)
(or whatever achieves gauge for you)

Yarn required:
Any fingering weight 4 ply sock yarn can be used, approximately 350 m (382 yds) in total. Sample shown is knit in size 2 for foot length Europe 39, US 8, UK 6 using:

• Main Colour: Medium Brown - Ficolana Arwetta classic in Red squirrel 40g, 160m / 175 yds
• CC1: Dark Brown – Rauma finull, 4064 – 20g, 76m / 83 yds
• CC2: White – Lang Yarns sock wool, white 10g, 40m / 43 yds
• CC3: Beige - Regia Premium yak – Puder meliert 10g 40m / 43 yds
• CC4: Dark Grey - Regia sock yarn 4ply in Anthrazit – 10g 40m / 43 yds

This pattern has not been test knitted or tech edited (but knitting friends have kindly read through the pattern!)