The Isabellina Socks are inspired by Ahaetulla isabellina, Wall’s Vine Snake. It is one of several related small, venomous tree-dwelling snakes living in the rainforests of southern India and Sri Lanka, eating lizards and frogs. If this snake is disturbed, it spreads its scales apart, revealing a strange pattern on the skin between them. This species was named “isabelline” due to the pale yellowish-grey colour in its skin which, when paired with the black, makes for an effective threat display.

Pattern Description

Isabellina is a quick-to-knit heavyweight sock, perfect for keeping out the chill of winter and showing off beautiful yarn at the same time. These extra-thick toe-up socks have a straightforward texture that is mirrored on the right and left socks. They feature gussets, a German short row heel turn with reinforced heel flap, and a classic 2x2-rib cuff. They are available in three adult foot circumferences and are adjustable in length and height.

This pattern requires the knitter to be able to knit a small circumference in the round (the pattern is method-neutral to suit any sock knitting technique) and clearly explains all techniques required. Within the pattern you will find links to useful video tutorials as well, so the pattern is easily accessible to an intermediate knitter who is just getting started knitting socks.

Yarn Requirements and Sizing

Sizes available: Adult Small (Medium, Large) for foot circumferences of 18 (20.5, 23) cm / 7 (8, 9) inches

For average foot lengths and equal leg heights, you will need approximately 210 (225, 240) m / 230 (245, 260) yards of DK-weight yarn.

(Looking for something similar in fingering weight? Try the Hapax Socks!)

The surface texture of this pattern makes them interesting in any colourway. Hold two strands of light fingering weight sock yarn together for a unique visual effect! (If you do hold strands together, note that, you will need approximately 420 (450, 480) m / 460 (490, 520) yards.)

These socks are rated 3/5 — Intermediate — on my sock pattern difficulty scale. This is because they require one uncommon stitch, and the leg chart moves the beginning of the round.

This pattern is available on the knitCompanion app! You can get a version prepared specifically for kC compatibility here. #kcdesign