You may remember a few months ago I tried my hand at devising a sock pattern; the prototype was pictured here and the beginnings of 'the real thing' in this post. At last it's done, so here is the Willow Pattern Sock (click for details, which I hope are clear).
I shall try to get some better pictures later - the light is no good today to show the colours accurately, but these manage to give the general idea.
The cuff is slightly deeper than in the original, and the willow leaf pattern recurs three times in the round, being repeated eight times down the front of the sock and four times at the sides.
I made the heel (Dutch or Horseshoe) and toe (Pointed) with reference to Nancy Bush's Knitting Vintage Socks, 
I am truly in awe of someone who can create something as delightful as this (and useful, and warm!) from yarn! I'm merely a wordsmith. That's but nothing compared with someone who can use knitting needles so expertly! Well done!
Posted by: Margaret Powling | 25 March 2008 at 05:40 PM
These are absolutely beautiful! I've tried my hand at knitting socks and actually completed one pair, but they aren't anything as nice as these. You have inspired me to try another pair!
Posted by: Lisa | 25 March 2008 at 05:52 PM
Perfect for spring, just as the willows begin to change color and spring to life!
Posted by: Avice | 25 March 2008 at 07:14 PM
They are lovely. The yarn is lovely, too, and the color variation does not obscure the pattern, like variegated yarns sometimes do.
Posted by: Francesca | 25 March 2008 at 08:20 PM
Perfect - I was just starting to look for a new sock pattern, so now I shall try yours. Thank you!
Posted by: ros | 25 March 2008 at 08:29 PM
They are really beautiful socks, well done!
My daughter (11) asked me yesterday to make her a pair, I have only made plain ones before so I may give these a go as the pattern doesn't look too difficult.
Posted by: carole | 25 March 2008 at 09:14 PM
Beautiful - really gorgeous! Thanks so much - can't wait to try them!
Posted by: Jeanne | 26 March 2008 at 12:35 AM
A new sock pattern!!! :-) I'll be printing this one out for sure, thanks for sharing.
Your socks turned out wonderful!
Funny how a change of yarn color can make a pattern look different. The light green originals looked a bit more delicate. The addition of a couple more rows in the cuff balances out the overall look.
I appreciate your cuff note, that's the type of thing I forget. The way you designate WLP rows is great; clear without cluttering up lots of space.
Overall, the pattern writing looks like a smashing success. (Mind you I haven't gone over it with proofreader's eyes.)
Posted by: Fiberjoy | 26 March 2008 at 04:50 AM
Well done - they are lovely. I am beyond impressed at someone who can devise their own pattern. They will be my project for next winter.
Posted by: Claire | 26 March 2008 at 08:46 AM