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Some yarns speak for themselves. The Opal Hundertwasser series sings.
Based on the visionary art and environmental activism of Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser (1928–2000), this self-patterning yarn line transforms socks into statements. Bold, bright, and layered with meaning, each colorway is based on one of Hundertwasser’s original paintings or posters—works that champion individuality, sustainability, and the beauty of natural forms.
Now available in the shop in six iconic versions.
Each skein contains 100g (425 meters) of fingering-weight yarn—75% superwash wool, 25% polyamide (nylon)—strong enough for socks, yet soft and vivid enough for shawls, mitts, hats, and other accessories. Machine-washable, made in Germany, and dazzling on the needles.
Austrian artist, architect, and environmental visionary, Friedensreich Hundertwasser believed in beauty, individuality, and living in harmony with nature. Famous for his spirals, bright colors, and rejection of straight lines, his work spanned painting, graphic design, architecture, and activism.
He advocated for rooftop gardens, organic forms, and buildings that breathe — long before “sustainability” was a trend. A lifelong rebel against conformity, he lived what he preached: planting trees, protesting deforestation, and embracing imperfection as a creative force.
To celebrate this arrival, I’m working on an English adaptation of the not so perfect pattern on the reverse side of the label inspired by Sabrina Karlem, who has brilliantly cracked the code.
These socks are knit flat, side-to-side, and seamed at the back, with a toe worked in the round. Although Sabrina found a better toe method. At any rate, it’s a perfect match for yarn that doesn’t want to play by traditional rules.
Sideways Sock Pattern (Coming soon!)
Adapted from the original German label included with Opal sock yarn. Translated by Marni Reecer, M.A.
Sizes: Small (Women’s US 5–7), Medium (Women’s US 7.5–9.5 / Men’s 6–8), Large (Women’s US 10–11.5 / Men’s 9–11)
Cast-On: 120 (130, 140) sts
Toe Pick-Up: 56 (64, 72) sts
Yarn Needed: 1 skein Opal Hundertwasser (100g)
Notable Features:
Gauge: 29 sts x 42 rows = 10 cm x 10 cm in stockinette
These yarns are stunning in scarves, fingerless gloves, and garter stitch shawls. Try holding it double for worsted-weight accessories with extra pizzazz. Or let it stripe and swirl its way through a plain hat, and watch as a masterpiece emerges stitch by stitch.
Click any colorway on the product page to learn more about the artwork that inspired it. Each has its own pop-up gallery and background story, including translated artist commentary, titles, and painting dates.
For a deeper creative dive, check out this video on Hundertwasser’s drawing methods: Watch on YouTube. Perfect for artists, knitters, and anyone curious about line, flow, and unconventional form.
Because he reminds us that art has something to say. Because color is a language. Because the world needs more joy, more beauty, and more makers who care.
And because socks can be revolutionary, too.
Shop the Collection
Explore Opal Hundertwasser Yarn
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