Inside: Make stunning knitted socks with patterns inspired by global destinations. A must-have book for sock knitters of all levels.
The book “Knitted Socks: 20 Gorgeous Patterns Inspired by Places Around the World” by Niina Laitinen is a breathtaking combination of wanderlust and the comfort of handknit socks. Full of beautiful photos and clear, easy to read charts for all 20 patterns, I couldn’t help but fall in love. Here’s my take on this book, hopefully it will help you decide if you need it on your shelves (I vote yes!).
I’ll start with a rundown of the basic book stats, then get into the patterns, skill level, inspiration, and practical advice. There’s plenty of warmth and color in these patterns, so let’s jump in and see what makes this book handy for knitters of all levels.
Book Title: Knitted Socks: 20 gorgeous patterns inspired by places around the world
Author: Niina Laitinen
Price: US $23.95 / UK £14.99 / CAN $28.95
Pages: 176
Skill Level: Confident Beginner to Advanced
Patterns Included: 20 sock designs inspired by world destinations, from ancient cities to breathtaking landscapes
Photography: Stunning, well-styled, and highly useful images
Buy it here:
About the Author: Niina Laitinen’s Creative Adventure
Niina Laitinen has built up quite a following in the knitting world, especially in Europe and her home country of Finland. Her sock patterns have appeared in knitting magazines and on Ravelry, and she has a strong presence on social media and her personal blog. With 4 books previous to this one, all published in various languages, you have probably admired her work before while looking for socks that are so much more than just a way to keep your feet warm. What stands out about Niina is how she channels her love of travel and storytelling into her patterns. Each sock isn’t just an accessory, it’s part of a story, a representation of a moment in time.
This designs pull from Niina’s actual trips, from stories and fables, and from Niina’s imagination, weaving together everything from ancient architecture to blooming cherry trees. Her way of guiding knitters (explaining charts, supporting multiple sizes, and welcoming creative tweaks) makes her books easy to use, no matter your experience.
Find Niina Laitinen online
What’s Inside: Style, Structure, and First Impressions
Flipping open the book feels like paging through a travel diary made with wool and beautiful photographs. The socks are beautifully shown, the instructions are thoughtfully laid out, and every detail, from yarn tips to fit adjustments, is included with care. Be sure to read the pages BEFORE the patterns start, they will help you understand how the patterns work, and guide you to making stunning statements for your stems.
Here’s what you’ll find:
- Destination themed patterns: 20 unique sock designs inspired by cities and landscapes, like “Shanghai” with gold dragon motifs, “Hanami” with cherry blossom lace, and “Madagascar” full of tropical color.
- Eye-catching photography: Each design is paired with photos that match the location, helping you get a feel for the theme.
- Clear step-by-step instructions: The patterns walk you through setup, stitch guides, and tips, with plenty of friendly explanations for both basic and trickier techniques.
- Detailed charts: Each sock includes a chart for the stitch patterns, making following along way easier, even when things get a bit intricate.
- Size options and modification advice: Some socks come in more than one size, and others have tips on adapting sizing for the perfect fit for your chosen recipient.
I found the presentation warm and beginner-friendly. There’s enough technical detail to keep advanced knitters happy, and the patterns and charts are so clear and easy to follow that newbie sock knitters will be able to follow along as well. If stories and atmosphere draw you in, this book delivers. Each project feels like a little trip away from everyday life.
Skill Level: How Accessible Are These Sock Patterns?
This book falls somewhere between “confident beginner” and “experienced knitter.” You don’t need years of sock experience, but a basic comfort with reading charts, working in the round, and a few classic skills (like turning a heel or simple lace stitches) will help a lot.
- Basic sock construction: Most patterns use double pointed needles and follow the familiar cuff down setup. If you’re already used to knitting in the round, you’re good to go. I tend to prefer the magic loop, which puts all the stitches on one set of circular needles. If you wish to use this method, you may want to use stitch markers to mark where the pattern says to change to the next double point needle.
- Cable and lace techniques: A few socks use small cables, lace stitches, or some colorwork. There’s guidance for these, and pattern notes to help you troubleshoot as you knit. Again, be sure to read the pages at the start of the book before the patterns.
- Charts and written instructions: Each stitch pattern includes a chart. If charts are new to you, Niina’s tips help smooth the way. There are written directions for all the patterns, though you will need to use the charts as well, as most of the patterns do not have row-by-row written directions.
- Adapting fit: I noticed most patterns kick off with advice about picking a size, adjusting gauge or length, or swapping yarns. This is super useful for those who want to personalize socks or use stash yarn.
Design Inspiration: Where Each Pattern Comes From
I really enjoyed how every pattern connects to what inspired it. Niina doesn’t just grab random motifs. She takes pieces from her real travels, things like city skylines, ancient tiles, plants, or folklore, and turns them into stitch patterns, colors, and the mood of each pattern.
- The “Shanghai” socks include a gold, lacy motif that suggests dragon scales and silk embroidery.
- The soft pinks in “Hanami” hint at cherry blossoms with delicate leaf lace and little bobbles.
- “Madagascar” pairs bold color blocks with leafy cables and an animal print feel.
- Socks inspired by European destinations like Paris, Tallinn, or Lapland mix up lacy bits, geometric colorwork, and playful details that echo seasons and traditions.
- “Fairy-Tale Castle” and “The Little Mermaid” are story-book illustrations you wear.
Having patterns that connect to real locations makes the projects feel more special, and gives you fun stories to tell when people ask about your socks. Niina writes a little intro for each pattern so you get a sense of place before you even grab your needles.
Practical Tips: Getting the Most Out of the Patterns
- Check your gauge: Sock fit relies on gauge, yarn qualities, and your own knitting style. Niina’s sizing tips help, and I second her advice of taking the time to swatch in the round. You don’t want to take all that time and yarn, only to end up with socks that don’t fit right!
- Use stitch markers for chart repeats: With lace or cable sections, markers at each repeat make it easy to track where you are so you don’t have to rip back. Stitch markers that are visually different from each other can be a big help. One set may mark where the repeats for the stitch pattern start, while another marks where increases or decreases go.
- Cable needles vs normal needles: Some people like working cables without a separate needle for speed. Most, if not all, of the cable patterns in this book work either way, so do what makes you happy.
- Have fun with color: Don’t hesitate to use stash yarn colors that remind you of your travels or dream vacation spots. The patterns are just as nice with a personal twist. Just be sure you are using the same type of yarn for the full pattern, and if you are not you will want to be sure you get the same gauge with each type.
- Read the pattern before you start: The patterns lead you step by step, but checking out the notes at the top (like fit or finishing tips) may save time in the end. I have been burned one too many times by thinking I know what I’m doing only to find a note later that proves me wrong.
Materials and Yarn: What You’ll Need
Yarn selection for socks can seem overwhelming, but this book keeps things clear. Most patterns ask for standard fingering weight sock yarn (easy to track down in stores or online). The yardage needed is listed for each one, and there’s advice for both solid and variegated yarn options.
- About 400–450 meters of fingering weight yarn per pair
- Needles: Usually 2.25–2.5 mm double pointed needles, but magic loop is also welcome
- Stitch markers and a tapestry needle for finishing
- Some socks may benefit from a cable needle for certain stitches
- Care: Superwash wool is great for easy wear and washing – Niina mentions her yarn picks at the start of the book, along with some yarn sub ideas
Who Will Love This Book?
“Knitted Socks” is a great match for these groups:
- Knitters seeking variety: The mix of stitches, textures, colors, and themes keeps things fresh.
- Travel fans: If you enjoy telling stories with your crafts or want wearable souvenirs, here’s your chance.
- Intermediate makers: If you’ve knitted socks before, you’ll love the details, charts, and creative push.
- Gift givers: There are plenty of styles, from cozy neutrals to colorful eye-catching socks, with something for anyone on your list.
Beginners familiar with knitting in the round can grow their skills, especially with all the charts and supportive directions. Advanced knitters will appreciate the design variety and attention to detail.
Things Worth Knowing Before You Buy
Here are a few things I figured out that are helpful for buyers:
- The book is printed on sturdy, matte paper. You can mark it up, and pencil erases better than pen if you want to take notes.
- Patterns use UK/EU needle sizes with millimeter measurements first, and inches in parenthesis after.
- Most charts use universal symbols, though a couple might need an extra glance for newcomers. There’s a handy chart key included with each chart.
- Patterns are written for double pointed needles, but magic loop works fine too if that’s your preference.
- The photo styling sets a beautiful mood, but sometimes the colors might look a bit different in person compared to the book photos. As always, the only way to know for certain what a color looks like is to have the yarn in your hand. Be sure to buy enough so that you don’t have to buy more and risk getting a different dye lot.
There isn’t anything so tough it would slow down a determined beginner. The book encourages trying new ideas and celebrates even the quirky socks that don’t quite match the sample.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
“Knitted Socks: 20 Gorgeous Patterns Inspired by Places Around the World” by Niina Laitinen merges beautiful sock designs, travel inspiration, and skill-building tips into a must-have book. The approachable writing, eye-catching design details, and tips for tweaking patterns to match your yarn or foot shape make this a fantastic pick for anyone hoping to take their sock knitting up a notch.
The book brings together comfort and a touch of adventure, letting you create socks that are both wearable and beautiful. If you love socks, travel, or storytelling through craft, you need this book. Whether you’re after the classic basics, pretty lacework, or bold, colorful socks, you’ll find something here to inspire you – and maybe it will prompt you to pick up your needles and explore the world one pair at a time.
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