"Knitted Socks" by Niina Laitinen

Join popular knitwear designer Niina Laitinen on a journey around the world through 20 exquisite new patterns based on her own travels.

From the moors of Scotland to the bright lights of Shanghai… from the wilds of Madagascar to the majestic architecture of Milan, embark on an unforgettable trip around the world – in beautiful, cozy woollen footwear.

The 'Shanghai' socks are inspired by the gold dragon scales and flowing lace of China; delicate pale-pink cherry blossom motifs bedeck the 'Hanami' (flower viewing) socks that bring to mind springtime in Japan; while the flowing leaves of the tropical rainforests and the exotic creatures prescribe the vivid colorways of the 'Madagascar'-inspired pair.

• The sock patterns range from comfortably easy to more challenging.
• The instructions are clear,
• there are extensive charts, often including individual ones for each foot, included for each pattern, and the photos are wonderfully evocative.
• Some instructions are written for more than one size, and others can be adapted using the instructions.
• Niina also provides detailed information on exactly how much yarn she used for each pattern, which helps readers looking to make yarn substitutions.