Handknit socks are the love letters of the knitting world and are my favorite thing to knit for people I love.

As soon as I realized that this design was for the February issue of Knotions, I knew I was going to create a heart-themed sock!

I wanted a subtle, quiet, textured “I love you”; an “I love you” that was more like a soft whisper in your ear and a gentle hug, than a loud, multi-coloured, cable-y, “I love you” that shouts from the nearest rooftop, and makes grand romantic gestures.

I <3 U! socks are worked cuff-down and feature a subtle, textured heart on the center of the front and back of the leg. The stitch pattern continues onto the heel flap and the top of the foot. This sock uses a heel flap and gusset construction with a handkerchief heel and ends with a wedge toe that is grafted closed.

Instructions are included for 5 circumferences and foot length is customizable. The stitch pattern is both written and charted. Instructions are needle neutral so you can use your preferred method for working in the round.

Needles
Size US 1 (2.25mm) circulars or dpns (for preferred style for working small circumference in the round)

Or size needed to obtain gauge

Gauge
32 sts and 48 rows = 4” 10cm in St st

Sizes
S (M, L, XL, XXL): 7.25 (8.25, 9.25, 10.25, 11.25)“ 18.4 (21, 23.5, 26, 28.6) cm circumference
Foot length is customizable

Notions
Tapestry needle, 6 stitch markers (1 unique for BOR).