Basics for Blokes - Branding and Sock Design

Ah what an exciting delivery in my mailbox today! I designed these socks (and posters) for Basics for Blokes, an amazing Perth based initiative that aims to get essentials to people in need on Perth’s streets this winter. It’s the “brother” project to “Essentials for Women”. The money raised from the sale of these socks goes towards the purchase of basic necessities such as shampoo, deodorant, underwear and (more rugged) socks that should hopefully give some small comforts to those that are doing it tough on Perth’s streets. You can also donate direct, or donate products themselves into various drop off bins located all over Perth. Head over to the Basics for Blokes page and website to find out how.
The sock design process in itself was a steep learning curve. I hadn’t done anything woven since the 2008 Hopman Cup ties!! I wanted a design that started conversation, and a socks covered in men seemed like a great starting point. My first design started with 30 different men on it which gave the manufacturer a heart attack. Each color change as you move around the sock results in a loose thread on the inside, and the background colour gives the sock it’s stretch, so we revised down, and revised down, until the manufacturer sighed with relief and here we are! The foot has been kept design free at the board’s request so it’s more comfortable.
Made in Australia.