Black Flame Candle

(The 4 images above show 2 feet wearing handknit socks in orange and black. Mosaic slipped stitches create a flames pattern on the front of the socks.) 

“On All Hallows’ Eve, when the moon is around
A virgin will summon thee from under the ground.”
Strategically slipped stitches create undulating flames that lick their way up the instep of this sock - the perfect project for a spooky autumn evening.
This pattern was originally released as part of Super Sock Scarefest 2020.

This sock is knitted from the toe up and has a short-row heel with optional mini-gusset. Using slip stitches, it creates a flame-like pattern that ebbs and flows up the instep. This technique doesn’t require extra ease, so you should be able to choose your typical sock size and stitch count. This pattern works best in solids or tonals. MC and CC should have strong contrast with no overlapping colors.

A low-vision version of the pattern is also available. This version is written in 24 point sans serif font (Arial) in all black text. It has no italics. All of the directions are fully written out.

Both charts and written instructions are provided.

Finished sizes
7 (8, 9, 10) in / 18 (20.5, 23, 25.5) cm
To fit
8 (9, 10, 11) in / 20.5 (23, 25.5, 28) cm
…with approx. 1 in / 2.5 cm negative ease
Instructions for optional calf-shaping are provided in pattern.
Yarn
Light fingering or fingering weight yarn in wool, a wool blend, or other fiber with good stretch and memory; avoid fiber that grows when worn or is particularly slinky or drapey. Fiber should be naturally hard-wearing enough for socks (polwarth, BFL), or have some nylon or silk for strength. Avoid single-ply.
Sample shown in Stroll Fingering in Black and Brights - Hot Tamale. (75% Merino, 25% Nylon)
Yardage
MC: 167 (203, 250, 286) yd / 153 (186, 229, 262) m
CC: 146 (178, 219, 250) yd / 134 (163, 200, 229) m
Gauge
32 st, 50 rows over 4 in / 10 cm stockinette in the round, stretched
Materials
US 0 / 2.0 mm, or size needed to obtain gauge; circular needles or DPNs for small-circumference knitting
This pattern is written for magic loop.
Notions
embroidery needle
stitch markers

Sharing photos of your work? Tag @laur_oftheblings on instagram and use hashtags #BlackFlameSock and #LOTBKnits