I love design prompts. They provide both a jumping-off point and a set of constraints within which I can explore.

In this case, I was asked to design a pair of socks with the theme of Space. The name of the design, Planetary Orbit, immediately came to mind. Then I thought about bobbles to represent the orbiting objects (satellites? moons? interstellar vehicles?) and travelling stitches to trace the orbital path.

I hope you’ll enjoy knitting these socks, and that you’ll let your mind travel the galaxy while you knit.

Sizes: Adult S (M, L)
Shown in size L

Finished Measurements:
Foot Circumference: 6¾ (8, 9¼)”
Foot Length: 8 (9, 10)” or to desired length
The sample socks shown are size L, worn on women’s shoe size 11 feet.

Yarn Requirements:
Sport weight yarn
approximately 300 (350, 400) yds

Yarn Used for Sample:
1 skein Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks That Rock™ Mediumweight
(100% Superwash Merino Wool; 405 yds/170g) in Pacific Crest Trail

Needles and Notions:
Size 3 (3.25mm) needles in preferred style for small circumference knitting in the round.
Stitch markers
Stitch holder or waste yarn
Tapestry needle

Gauge:
28 sts and 38 rows = 4” in Stockinette st after blocking
Be sure to match the specified gauge in order to produce socks of the right size.

Notes:
These socks are knit in the round from the cuff down.
There are separate instructions for the Right Leg and the Left Leg, so the stitch pattern is mirrored.