Chocobo Racer

(The 4 images above show 2 feet wearing handknit socks in a warm yellow yarn with brown and orange speckles. A lace pattern that looks like feathers rings the cuff, and a different lace pattern wanders down the outside of the instep of each foot.)

Kweh! This sock, inspired by chocobos from Final Fantasy, was originally designed as part of a collaboration with Shipyarn, who specializes in sumptuous yarn bases and fandom-inspired colorways. Lacy feathers ring the cuff, followed by playful lace down the leg and foot, framed by relaxing stockinette. Need some background music while knitting? Try this playlist to get in the mood!

This sock is knitted from the top down and has a boomerang heel with optional mini-gusset. It features a lace cuff and stitch pattern that travels hither and thither down the leg. The socks are mirrored.
This pattern works best with most yarn dyeing techniques - heavy variegation or speckles may obscure the lace pattern.

Both charted and written instructions are provided.

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.

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 Shipyarn Solemate AU in Chocobo Racer (100% polwarth).
Yardage
268 (327, 402, 460) yd / 245 (299, 368, 420) 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
Sample
Sample was knit in size 8 and used 297 yd / 272 m. It is shown on a 9 in foot.

Sharing photos of your work? Tag @laur_oftheblings on instagram and use hashtags #ChocoboRacerSock and #LOTBKnits
This pattern was tech-edited by snooptiggercrafts.