Did you know a group of butterflies is called a kaleidoscope? Isn’t that the most delightful word to describe so much colour and beauty? I wanted to capture the impression of flowers and petals becoming a kaleidoscope of butterflies.

These socks are knit cuff down, increasing sts and changing needle size for the colourwork to accommodate the less stretchy fabric of stranded knitting. I started these with a picot edge because I love the delicate look and I wanted these socks to be extra special. This edge can be replaced by a (1x1) or (2x2) rib. I started with a US1 (2.25mm) needle and increased to a US1 ½ (2.5mm) for the colourwork.

The heel is a slipped stitch heel flap, the sweet flowers and butterflies at the toe add just a bit more magic to the design, and the toe is stitched together with Kitchener stitch. Make a matching pair or mismatched for added fun. If a matching pair is desired, use one leg chart and the corresponding toe chart for both socks.

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS:
Approx. circumference in stocking stitch, not stretched: 6 ½ (7 ½, 8 ½, 9 ½) inches/16.5 (19, 21.5, 24) cm
Approx. circumference in stranded, not stretched: 7 ½ (8 ½, 9 ½, 10 ½) inches/19 (21.5, 24, 26.5) cm

YARN USED in photo (MC and CC are switched for second sock. CC begins the sock and ends the toe; MC is used for heel and foot):
Gingersnap Fingering 75% Superwash Merino/ 25% Nylon, 463 yds (424 m)/100g, Styx, 1 skein (variegated yellow)
Gingersnap Fingering 75% Superwash Merino/ 25% Nylon, 463 yds (424 m)/100g, Wicked Wonderland Dust, 1 skein (variegated purple)

YARDAGE:
Approximate yardage used (for medium circumference and size 8 foot and making socks opposite colours):
Each Colour: 186 yds/170m

TOOLS:
For cuff, heels, toes and stockinette: US1 (2.25mm) dpns or circular needles for preferred method of knitting, or size needed to obtain gauge
For colourwork: US1½ /2.5mm dpns or circular needles for preferred method of knitting, or size needed to obtain gauge
Stitch markers
Tapestry Needle

This pattern has been tech edited by SIgrun Jones and tested by volunteers.