Crosslink Socks
The Crosslink Socks are inspired by molecular biology. In university, I specialized in genetics and evolutionary biology, so I spent a lot of time looking at molecular diagrams of DNA, RNA, amino acids, and proteins. In biology, “cross-linking” is a bond between two chains of organic molecules. Some chemotherapy drugs target rapidly-replicating cancer cells by causing DNA cross-linking. Cross-linking also happens in proteins, and it makes all kinds of complex and important structures in living things possible, including something knitters know well: wool!
These toe-up socks feature a beautiful but surprisingly easy-to-work all-over lace motif that starts on the toe. Only subtly open and with a ribbing base, they have mock cable details and lace patterning worked only in every other round. They feature a classic gusset and heel flap construction, with ribbing in the gussets for both aesthetic continuity and the best possible fit, and a cuff that flows smoothly from the lace patterning. Corresponding written instructions are provided for the charts.
This pattern is available in three foot circumferences and the socks are completely adjustable in length and height. It requires the knitter to be able to knit a small circumference in the round, and the pattern is method-neutral to suit your preferred technique for socks — double-pointed needles, magic loop/one circular needle, two circular needles, short circular needle, etc. Working two-at-a-time is possible, though some two-at-a-time methods may not be compatible with the continuous lace patterning on the leg.
This pattern looks best in a solid, semi-solid, or mildly-speckled colourway. A very busy colourway will obscure the lace pattern details, and the gusset-and-heel-flap construction will break up self-striping and gradient colourways.
This pattern has lots of helpful resources, including links to fully-captioned video tutorials and detailed stitch abbreviation descriptions.
