Not everyone can own furry pets, whether because of allergies or an overzealous landlord with a no-pets policy. But goldfish are the perfect solution to this problem and the easiest fish to look after!

These socks are knit from the top down with a ribbed cuff, a little contrast colored edging and a contrast color short row heel. On the leg, there is a fun and easy goldfish colorwork motif with optional duplicate-stitched eyes. A small decorative detail matching the border of the fish is knit just before the contrast color toe.

Sizing
1 (2, 3)
To fit (foot circumference): 8 (9, 10) inches / 19–21 (21.5–23.5, 24–26) cm
Finished circumference: 7 (8, 9) inches / 17.5 (20, 22.5) cm

Yarn
MC: Fingering weight, Madelinetosh Twist Light (75% superwash merino wool, 25% nylon), 420 yds (384 m) per 115-g skein
CC1: Fingering weight, TréLiz Ares (85% superwash merino wool, 15% nylon), 437 yds (400 m) per 100-g skein

Shown in
MC: Button Jar Blue (1 skein) 70g
CC1: Manawee (1 skein) 30g
Optional: Black scrap yarn for duplicate stitch eyes
Any fingering-weight sock yarn can be used for this sock pattern as long as you can obtain the same gauge.

Needles
For ribbing and stockinette: US 1 (2.25 mm), 32-inch (80-cm) circular for magic loop, or DPNs, or two circulars or a 9-inch
(23-cm) circular needle (as preferred).

For colorwork: US 1.5 (2.5 mm), 32-inch (80-cm) circular for magic loop, or DPNs, or two circulars or a 9-inch (23-cm) circular needle as preferred.

Gauge
32 sts x 44 rnds = 4 inches (10 cm) for ribbing and stockinette.
34 sts x 38 rnds = 4 inches (10 cm) for colorwork.

This pattern is included in Joyful Colorwork Socks: 25 New Knitting Patterns for Fun & Whimsical Footwear Featuring Pets, Games, Food, Hobbies & More which was published in November 2024. Available as a book and ebook.