With a cable pattern that is reminiscent of the foundation of all life, we wanted to honor an often unsung pioneer in the discovery of the structure of DNA, Rosalind Franklin. It was Rosalind’s x-ray photography of DNA that led the Nobel Prize winners Watson and Crick to discover the double helix structure of DNA. While not credited in their paper, Watson has stated that Rosalind’s contribution was crucial to the development of their model. Unfortunately, Franklin never received the credit she was due in her lifetime, as her life and work were cut short by ovarian cancer at the age of 37.

Knit top-down, two parallel cables develop seamlessly from the cuff, down to the heel flap. After the heel turn and into the gusset, only one cable remains down the foot to the wedge toe. With the DNA cable pattern written by round and each part of the sock thoroughly explained, this eye-catching design is very approachable for any skill level.

These socks are a tribute to a pioneer that dedicated her life to science during a time when women’s work was often pushed into the shadows. Thank you, Rosalind, for your work and your bravery.

Information
Sizing:
Women’s size medium (64 sts)

Yarn:
Fingering | Anemone and Vine 75/25 | 75% superwash merino/ 25% nylon – colorway VENICE BEACH | 437yards/400m per 100g

Any sock yarn would work great for this pattern

Requirements:
Depending on size of foot. Sample of Women’s size 8.5 U.S. foot used 285 yards/ 260 m or 65 g.

Gauge:
36 sts and 48 rows in 4”/10 cm stockinette in the round, washed and blocked

Needles:
2.25mm 9in circular needle or preferred sock needle size and method (magic loop, DPNs, etc.)

Additional Supplies:
Cable needle, yarn needle, stitch markers, and tape measure.