Gifts from the sea, scattered on the sand. Our love of seashells spans cultures and centuries: treasured, sacred specimens have been found in ancient archaeological sites around the world. Shells have been used as musical instruments, as adornments, as spiritual objects, as tools, and even as the first international currency. And if storybook illustrations are to be believed, they’re also highly prized by mermaids, who have a knack for turning them into swimwear.

The Mermaid Shell Socks offer a playful take on the familiar seashell theme. They are knit from the top down, starting with a beautiful scallop detail at the cuff which leads into a panel of interesting shell-inspired lace down the front of the leg. I’ve used a simple slip stitch ribbed heel and round toe to finish these socks, but as always, it’s easy to substitute other heels and toes if you want to customise the fit. The pattern includes three sizes.

Size
Small (Medium, Large)

Finished Measurements
To fit approx. foot circumference of 7 (8, 9)“ /17.5 (20.5, 22.5) cm.

Yarn
Skein Sisters Fabulous Sock 80% extra fine superwash merino, 20% nylon; 100g = 400m/437yds 1 x 100g skein
Colour: Curio

OR
Medium Size sample with 10.5” foot length used approximately
70g, 280m/306yds of fingering weight sock yarn

Needles
2.25mm (US 1), 100cm (40”) long circular needles (or size to obtain gauge) for magic loop method or DPNs if preferred

Notions
Tapestry needle
3 stitch markers

Gauge
32 sts/46 rounds = 10 cm (4”) in stockinette stitch