Malabrigo quickies: Odelle Socks
April Showers bring May Socks! This month’s Quickies design, Odelle socks from Susana Lobos, are a pure delight for your toes, sure to make you dance through all the May flowers. These socks are knit in Ultimate Sock, which is a truly luxurious sock yarn for your knitting needles and producing a very gift-worthy pair of socks sure to delight anyone that wears them. The samples are knit in Rosalinda and Arapey, demonstrating how well this design works with any color for our catalog.
Susana gave us some wonderful insight into this design:
1: What is your favorite part of your Quickies design and why?
I love creating a design that's both fun and beautiful. And if I can also offer something that's easy to knit - especially for those who have never tried a project like this before - even better! A skein is always a blank canvas, an incredible opportunity to create something unique and special. While knitting socks may seem challenging at first, this pattern is designed to guide you in a clear and friendly way. I recommend reading through the entire pattern before you begin - you'll see it's not as difficult as it looks.
2: What should knitters pay attention to when working this pattern? Do you have any tips or tricks that will make knitting this pattern easier?
Here are some helpful tips to make the process even more enjoyable:
· You can use solid colors, mottled yarns, or ones with subtle variations. This design works beautifully with the beautiful Ultimate Sock palette. Its soft yet firm texture makes every stitch pop.
· Divide the skein into two equal parts before you begin. That way you'll have the same amount of yarn for each sock and there will be no surprises.
· I know it can feel like a hassle, but knitting a gauge pattern will save you trouble later. It will help you choose the right size and make sure the sock fits right the first time.
· Use the circular needle method that feels most comfortable and natural to you. There's no one right way - the important thing is that you enjoy the process.
· Try on the sock as you go. It's a great way to make sure you're on the right track and to make any necessary adjustments along the way.
3: What do you think knitters will enjoy the most about this project?
This is a simple design that works with any style - and it's unisex! The softness and texture of Ultimate Sock gives each stitch amazing definition. Plus, the wide range of colors available makes it easy to find your perfect match!
4: What does your design process look like?
My design process always starts with a drawing in my head, inspired by objects, people, colors, wool, or just the geometry of something I saw while walking. I have several notebooks with sketches, they are a diary of my ideas and fantasies because sometimes they just make it to paper without becoming a real design.
There are times when everything is very well planned and I follow every step without stopping, but other times I work freely without stopping to think, just ideas and threads flowing in my hands.
I think the most exciting thing is when I see it finished, I'm always surprised by the result, it's better than what I had in my drawings. I have learned to enjoy every step, I love knitting, the photos, and imagining who can wear it. Creating is my purpose, I am a complete person when I design.
5: Was there any particular inspiration you had when creating this piece?
Odelle is a name that evokes elegance and softness, and that's exactly what I wanted to reflect in this design. Of French origin, Odelle is associated with "song" or "melody," and I thought it was the perfect name for these socks. Knitting them feels like following the rhythm of a serene song: the texture, simple yet soothing, repeats in a harmonious way, gently drawing you into the process.
Each stitch is like a note: together they compose a piece that's as pleasing to make as it is to wear. This name reminds me that knitting is also a way to express beauty, connection and care. It's like knitting a melody with your hands.
6: What is the one thing you wish people knew about you as a designer?
I love color, but each of my designs can be customized to suit your style, palette, and skills. In general, I think of women who work outdoors or indoors, who like to dress discreetly or casually, then a colorful shawl or any accessory can be a boost to your outfit.
Also, I'd like you to know that I always have time to answer questions or read your comments, I love to know the opinion of those who knit my designs.
Be sure to check out the pattern here on Ravelry: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/odelle-socks and to find more patterns from Susana, check out these social media profiles:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/susanalobosdesigns
Ravelry ID: https://www.ravelry.com/people/CreacioneSusana
