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The Abalone Socks are Updated and Improved

I first designed the Abalone Socks back in 2019, when I discovered I might really enjoy making socks. I released the pattern after test knitting but didn’t realize I should also have it tech edited. In the intervening years, I wore a hole in the original sample and found a way to write heel instructions that was much easier to follow.

A top down image of a pair of blue handknit socks that take up the left 2/3 of the frame. Their toes are pointing to the left and they're laid slightly cattywumpus on top of each other. They're surrounded by antique paper ephemera, white roses, a hunk of white spindly coral, and a blue and white teacup full of milky tea.

So when I met the kind crew over at Universal Yarns earlier this summer and they gave me a skein of their Uni Merino to try out, I pretty quickly realized I wanted to use it for a new sample of the Abalone Socks. Read on for links for where to find the pattern, an easy shopping list, pattern specs, and more.

Payhip

Here’s where you’ll find the Abalone Socks on Payhip.

Etsy

Here’s where you’ll find the Abalone Socks on Etsy.

Ravelry

Here’s where you’ll find the Abalone Socks on Ravelry.

About the Abalone Socks

Years ago, the waters around the Channel Islands near my hometown of Ventura were filled with abalone. They were a staple of local diets for centuries, but overfishing in the 20th century led to strict restrictions and periodic bans on abalone fishing in the area. The 2018 abalone fishing season was cancelled entirely after a sharp decline in abalone population.

I’ve named these socks after our precious abalone and their shimmering shells. The inside of an abalone shell has flashes of pink, white, silver, green, blue, and purple. It ripples and sparkles in the light, a sensory experience I’ve tried to replicate with the rows of eyelets and twisted stitches you’ll find in these socks.

This sock pattern is written from the cuff down and features a simple two-round repeat that you’ll find relaxing but fun. The pattern is graded to three sizes. The heel flap and gusset construction ensure a snug fit for your unique foot, while the simple wedge toe makes finishing these socks a real breeze.

A close up on the heel of a pair of light blue handknit socks.

Easy Shopping List

In case you want to knit the Abalone Socks using the exact materials I did, here is a shopping list with easy links for you. Some of these are affiliate links, which means if you choose to buy something through those links, I’ll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I will always identify affiliate links for you. Thanks for supporting my work!

Universal Yarn Uni Merino Fingering Yarn (affiliate link)

Chiaogoo US Size 1.5 (2.5 mm) short circular needles (affiliate link)

The DPNs I’ve used since 2009 (affiliate link)

Stitch markers (budget option) (affiliate link)

Stitch markers (fancy option) (affiliate link)

Abalone Socks Details and Specs

Here are all the nitty gritty details about the Abalone Socks including their dimensions, materials, gauge, needles, and more.

SIZES

S, M, L

Dimensions: 7.5” (21.6 cm), 9.75” (23.5 cm), 10” (25.4 cm) circumference

MATERIALS

Fingering weight yarn, 400 yards

Suggested yarn: KnittyVet Naturally-Dyed Sock Yarn, 462 yards (423 m) per skein

GAUGE

4” (10 cm) square = 32 stitches x 40 rows in stockinette

NEEDLES

One set of needles for your preferred style of small-circumference knitting in a size to match gauge listed above

Suggested needle size: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

TOOLS

One stitch marker

Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

SKILL LEVEL

Adventurous beginner to intermediate

Techniques: increases, decreases, twisted stitches, knitting in the round

A close up on the toes of a pair of light blue handknit socks.

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