The Alicorn Socks are inspired by unicorn horn — also known as “alicorn”. As early as 400 BCE, people believed that unicorns were real animals whose horns could protect people from disease and poison. In Medieval Europe, kings coveted items made of alicorn, and the King of Denmark even had a throne made of that mythical substance. Of course, alicorn is not really unicorn horn, but actually the “tusk” (an elongated tooth) of a narwhal (Monodon monoceros), making that unusual animal even more arguably the “unicorn of the sea”!

Pattern Description

These are fun, easy-to-knit socks with an intuitively-patterned panel of elongated stitches on the bias that look like a spiralling unicorn horn. No cabling required! They are knit toe-up with a rounded afterthought heel and a twisted-rib cuff. They are available in three sizes and they are extremely adjustable in length and height. Corresponding written instructions are provided for the chart, which is the same for both socks (although the position of it is mirrored).

This pattern requires the knitter to be able to knit a small circumference in the round (it is method-neutral to suit any technique you may prefer) and clearly explains all techniques for increases, decreases, elongated stitches, and picking up an afterthought heel. Within the pattern you will find links to useful video tutorials as well, so the pattern is easily accessible to an intermediate knitter who is just getting started knitting socks.

Yarn Requirements and Sizing

The pattern provides instructions for foot circumferences of 18 (20.5, 23) cm / 7 (8, 9) inches — 56 (64, 72) st. The foot length is completely adjustable for a perfect fit. The leg height is also adjustable, and it is easy to include calf increases to use up as much of that gorgeous yarn as you can!

For mid-calf socks of average foot lengths and equal leg heights, approximately 275 (300, 325) m / 300 (325, 350) yards of fingering or light fingering weight yarn is required.

This pattern is designed to complement any colourway — its structure and patterning work well with any dye technique. Grab your wildest yarn and go for it!

These socks are rated 2/5 — Easy — on my sock pattern difficulty scale. This is because they only have a narrow section of patterning that requires only a few straightforward stitches.

Originally designed as part of Be A Freaking Unicorn 2021, at least 40% of the proceeds of all purchases of this pattern go to the Ten Oaks Project, which is an organization by and for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in my community. It connects children, youth, and families from 2SLGBTQ+ identities with programs such as recreational activities, camping, youth retreats, and parenting support groups. They focus on empowerment of young members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in an intersectional way through learning, collaboration, and play.