The ‘Queen of the Mob’ sock pattern is inspired by Suffragette Icon, Dame Christabel Pankhurst.

Along with her mother Emmeline and sister Sylvia, she was one of the leading figures of the Suffragette movement, with her militant actions as the WSPU’s Organising Secretary earning her the nickname ‘Queen of the Mob’.

The delicate lace motif at the central panel of the socks is reminiscent of the Edwardian Art Nouveau style, with which the Suffragettes would have been familiar. Art Nouveau artists took inspiration from natural forms like the sinuous curves of plants and flowers to create dynamic designs full of grace and movement; jewellery and accessories in this style were popular with followers of the movement.

In 1908 the Suffragette newspaper ‘Votes For Women’ advised its readers that “The suffragette of today is dainty and precise in her dress”.

This pattern combines several of Christabel and her fellow Suffragettes many qualities, being both ‘dainty and precise’ but also dynamic and robust. The lace panel, flowing sinuously from the toe up to the cuff, requires a little bit of precision in its execution, and whilst appearing to be dainty, these socks will wash and wear well for years to come, owing to the high twist and 10% polyamide content of the yarn itself. The Folkestone Harbour Yarn Sock yarn also gives great stitch definition whilst being soft and warm on your feet.

By knitting these socks you are not only supporting a small, independent business; you are also participating in the slow fashion movement. So make a nice cuppa, pick up your knitting needles, and relax into the meditative rhythm of your chosen rebellion. And if you happen to pull these on your feet before you head out the door to a protest march, walk proud! Christabel would surely approve.

This pattern uses one skein of Folkestone Harbour Yarn Sock, 90% merino, 10% polyamide, 400 m per 100g. Available from www.folkestoneharbouryarn.com

It uses one set of 2.75mm 6” dpn’s or circular sock needle, plus a stitch holder or waste thread and stitch markers.