Masnytsia Socks

This first pattern of the Luddite Yarn Sock Club 2021 celebrates the spring equinox with short cuffs, eyelets, and delicate details that hint at the approach of warmer weather. Knit from the top down with heel flap and gusset construction, and a modified round toe, this is a simple pattern well suited to beginner sock knitters.

Named for Masnytsia, the Ukrainian version of a Slavic spring festival that was celebrated at the equinox in pre-Christian times. Traditionally in Ukraine, Masnytsia was a time to celebrate the return of the sun. Nowadays, Masnytsia is celebrated the week before Great Lent (40 days before Orthodox Easter) by eating lots of perogies and pancakes.