operation sock drawer: 8 free sock patterns that I love

After declaring that I will have a drawer full of hand knit socks, you might be wondering what types of socks will I knit.

I only started knitting socks about 2 years ago but I realized that although they were time consuming, for me, they were a very satisfying knit. I loved that feel of hand knit socks on my feet and I loved looking down to see the colourful yarn, and remembering when and where I knit them.

So, I decided to be organized and queued up 8 sock patterns that I love the look of and that I will strive to make this year. They also happen to be free!

1. How I Make My Socks by Susan B. Anderson

I've been using Susan's formula for vanilla socks since I've started making socks. It's actually my go-to cuff down method for sock and heel construction. If I don't know what pattern to knit, I will usually fall back on this one.

2. Flying North by Stitched in Sweden

I love the simplicity of Maria's pattern but the added texture makes it unique. I would definitely use a tonal yarn from my stash for this one.

3. YingYang Kitty Ankle Socks by Geena Garcia

Isn't this cat sock design the sweetest? I know my girls would love these not only for the kitty design but because they swear by ankle length socks!

4. Hermione's Everyday Socks by Erica Leuder

With over 2,000 projects already complete, this pattern is probably on most sock knitters list. Since my daughter and I are reading the Harry Potter books at the same time, I think we should each have a pair of matching socks, too!

5. Business Casual Socks by Tanis Lavallee

A faux argyle sock pattern. Need I say more? I've had this pattern in my sock queue since 2015 waiting for a day I had enough time and skill to make these. This is the year, I think.

6. Tube Socks for Kids by Jane Richmond

Simple and easy and grows with the child. That's enough for me to want to add this Jane Richmond pattern to my knit list.

7. Double Heelix by Jeny Staiman

With great photos of the colour work, this unique heel pattern is most intriguing but I'm looking forward to trying this one out because it's so different than what I would normally knit.

8. Fruit Loop by Kristi Geraci

Though it's an older pattern (from 2008 actually), it's also published in knitty.com. This pattern looks challenging but has a simple-to-read chart, so I'm game to attempt it. I love the name as Fruit Loops was a favourite cereal of mine as a kid.

So those are my picks for my year of the sock. I'm sure I'll add a few more to the list over the course of the year, but these are my current faves. Do you have a sock pattern that you want to try? I'd love to check it out, too!