The Malachiticus Socks are inspired by Sceloporus malachiticus, the Emerald Swift Lizard, a brightly-coloured spiny lizard native to Central America from southern Mexico to Panama. Emerald Swifts are famous for the males’ bright yellow-green scales and blue underbellies, which help them attract a mate. They live in trees, eating insects and basking in the sun.

Pattern Description

These socks use a straightforward lace pattern that adds texture as well as openness. They are knit toe-up with a contrast rounded afterthought heel. The right and left socks are worked identically, and corresponding written instructions are provided for the chart.

This pattern requires the knitter to be able to knit a small circumference in the round (either on double-pointed needles or your preferred technique for socks) and clearly explains all techniques for increases, decreases, and picking up an afterthought heel. Within the pattern you will find links to useful video tutorials as well, so the pattern is accessible to an intermediate knitter who is just getting started knitting socks.

Yarn Requirements and Sizing

Sizes available: Adult Small (Medium, Large) for foot circumferences of 18 (20.5, 23) cm / 7 (8, 9) inches — 56 (64, 72) st. The foot length and leg height are adjustable. Note that the lace stitch pattern is quite stretchy, so I recommend sizing down if you are not certain of which size to choose.

The socks call for fingering weight yarn; approximately 225 (250, 275) m / 245 (275, 300) yards of the Main Colour and 30 (35, 40) m / 35 (40, 45) yards of the Contrast Colour is required for standard foot lengths and equivalent leg heights.

This pattern works for both solid and multicoloured yarns, since the lace texture is relatively large and graphic.

These socks are rated 3/5 — Intermediate — on my sock pattern difficulty scale. This is because they require working an all-over lace pattern.