Malabrigo quickies: Downward Furballs
Surprise! In case you are feeling the knitting gifting time crunch, we squeezed in. an extra Quickies just for you this month! This one easily meets that perfect blend of flexibility, resulting in a pair of yoga socks! The perfect reminder to get your zen on, first on your yoga mat and then with your knitting needles. Tomata has created Downward Furballs to help you find that state of bliss amid the crazy season.
This pattern is knit in rounds, with an opening for the heel and toes. The whole sock is filled with different stitch patterns for use and decoration. It is designed in one (1) color and one (1) string. It is worked up in a skein of Washted, and the pattern showcases the Archangel colorway.
Tomato has published knit patterns since 2016, specializing in small projects like dishcloths, home accessories, socks, and hats. Stitch patterns are my favorite; sometimes, I will add color work for a change.
Tomato shared some of the design processes and some additional information about this pattern:
1: What should knitters pay attention to when working this pattern? Do you have any tips or tricks to make knitting this pattern easier?
There are two tips for making these socks for beginners. First, read the whole pattern rather to have an overall understanding of the construction. Of course, using markers to remind us where to change stitch patterns along the row, etc. will also help.
2: What do you think knitters will enjoy the most about this project?
It is a quick and easy project to use up your leftover yarn from big projects. Remember, there is no rule to say that the pair needs to be made in the same thread. Pairing up adventures to create a team will be fun on its own. We use four stitch patterns in the pattern, like a tester menu in a nice restaurant. Seeing the stitch patterns developing in the sock will keep the knitting interest going.
3: What does your design process look like?
It could be more straightforward in the timeline. I spent a few months in 2019 designing / R&D with short-row heel socks. When all was said and done, I also wanted knitting beginners to enjoy making socks that require fewer skills. So, I reduced the heel and toe cap structure to make the most simple hose possible.
4: Was there any particular inspiration you had when creating this piece?
My inspiration is from my furballs (aka cats). With the curling beside me, napping, and not far off a small calendar with tiny kittens each month in a different yoga post (so cute !!), the socks just came off my needles in no time.
5: What is the one thing you wish people knew about you as a designer?
I love knitting to challenge my technique. I spent time researching the best technical approach to achieve the design. I don't like weaving in loose ends, so my strategy has considered minimal loose ends. I spend a lot of time rediscovering some forgotten stitch patterns and repeated swatches and adding them to my plan when the opportunity arises. I tried to design knitting patterns that offer alternatives to popular trends.
6. What beverage will you most likely have by your side while designing?
Coffees and teas from around the world. The choice depends on the seasons and my mood.
You can download the pattern here: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/downward-furballs