When I was very young, a trip to the movies meant the drive-in and always included a box of red licorice, forever linking the two in my mind. Although some will insist that only the black is “real” licorice, I’m firmly in the red camp.

This pattern features licorice’s raised, twisting stripes and will satisfy lovers of both red and black. Red Vine is lacy and features a frilly picot edge, satisfying any girly-girl. The simple variation of knitting yarn overs through the back loop creates Blackjack, sans laciness and with a plain cast-on edge, perfect for a guy or any licorice purist.

Both versions have an easy-to-memorize 2-row pattern and include a slip-stitch pattern on the heel flap that creates a subtle diagonal to continue the overall spiraling effect. The yarn is an all-seasons blend of bamboo and superwash wool, with a touch of silk for sheen and a bit of luxury.