Bees and other insects play a significant role in pollinating flowers and food crops. Pollinator populations have faced environmental challenges such as habitat loss, diseases, pesticides, and climate change. Recent declines in the populations of bees have increased awareness of the importance of pollination to the welfare of animals and humans who depend on food crops for nutrition.

This sock is a tribute to and wish that we continue to see busy bees in our flower and vegetable gardens.

This sock is knit toe up. It has a field of blossoms on the instep and part of leg. A band of Bumblebees circles the upper leg. The cuff is worked in a twisted knit and purl ribbing. This sock has a short-row heel with a mini-gusset and mini-flap. Pattern includes 2 toe styles, brief directions for adjusting the sock’s foot length, and 2 bind-off styles. Links to tutorials for most techniques are provided. Little Flower and Bumblebee patterns are charted.

Gauge
~ 9.25 stitches, 13 rows per inch (37 stitches, 51 rows per 10 cm) in the round in stockinette.

Yarn
~ 100 g 400-450 yds (366-411 m) fingering weight (16 wpi) sock yarn. Amount may vary based on size and leg length.

Needles
US 0 (2.0 mm) circular needles or those to obtain gauge. Pattern can be worked using Magic Loop, 2 circulars, or Double-points. Adjust directions to your needle choice.

Other
Three closed stitch markers, 1 clip-on stitch marker, darning needle, optional crochet hook for picot bind-off, optional 2.25-2.5 mm needle for working leg or bind-off.