These slipstitch colorwork socks are knit from the cuff down with heel flap and gusset, using mosaic patterns reminiscent of Byzantine tile work.

Techniques & Skills Used: longtail CO, knit/purl, decreasing, corrugated ribbing, picking up stitches, slipstich mosaic colorwork, short row heel, grafting; this pattern contains full written instructions, as well as charts for the slipstitch colorwork.

Size: S (M, L): 72 (80, 88) st, to fit Women’s US 6/7 (8/9, 10/11) shoe size.

Yarn: Malabrigo Yarn Sock (100% superwash merino wool; 440 yards/ 402m/100g); 1 skein each MC and CC, shown in Azules (MC) and Botticelli Red (CC).

Other Materials: US 1 (2.25mm) dpns or 32” circular needle if using Magic Loop, or size to match gauge; Stitch markers (3); Yarn needle.

Gauge: 38 st and 48 rows/4” in stockinette stitch, 48 st and 88 rows/4” in Twisted Stripe slipstitch pattern, 42 st and 72 rows/4” in Mosaic Weave slipstitch pattern, after blocking. Slipstitch colorwork is very dense; the slipstitch rows are also somewhat difficult to measure, as one slipped stitch represents two rows. The best way to measure for fit is to try on the sock.

Mosaic Socks are part of the Sailing To Byzantium Collection, designs inspired by the art and architecture of ancient Constantinople. Designed for the Malabrigo Freelance Pattern Project 2011.

Thank you to my wonderful tech editor Kate Vanover, and my lovely testknitters!