Knitting Socks
It can be a bit scary to think about knitting socks when you’ve never done it. Where does one even start? Is there a special yarn that’s used for knitting socks? How much do I need? What needles am I supposed to use? How big am I supposed to make them? Will they fit? There are so many patterns and they look complicated...
We’re gonna talk about everything you need to know about knitting socks. PLUS! We’ve found free sock patterns for all levels of knitters.
Basic Socks
The I’m So Basic Socks by Summer Lee is a perfect place to start for experienced knitters and beginners. It is a top-down sock pattern with no complicated cast-ons, comes with clear demonstrations on how to find out your size, picture knitting instructions, and a detailed walk-through of the whole process.
Most sock yarns have some nylon in the fibre to add durability. However, this KiwiYarn-A 4ply High Twist Merino is 100% merino, but just as suitable for socks due to its construction. If you don’t like any synthetic fibres, this yarn is a perfect choice for you.
No Frills Toe Up Socks
Compared to the top-down method, I personally prefer the toe-up method when it comes to knitting socks.
Anthena Liu designed this No Frills Toe Up Socks pattern, and though it looks complicated, it really isn’t. Give it a go! It looks like this pattern would be complicated with all the colour striping but there’s actually no effort required! You can too trick people into thinking you’ve done difficult colour-work socks by using Opal’s Self Patterning Sock Yarn!
Magic Stripe Socks
If you would like to try creating the stripe effect yourself, try this Magic Zauberball Stripe Socks pattern by Tofutrulla. This pattern was designed to be used with the Zauberball Crazy yarn, but you can totally use it with any variegated or plain yarn.
One ball of the Zauberball Crazy 4ply should be more than enough to make a pair of socks for most people. So how do you make striped socks with just one ball? Stripe it with itself! Either wind the one ball into two smaller balls or (if you’re lazy like me), simply get the second strand of yarn by using the other end of the ball of yarn.
Magic Loop/ Two at a Time
Most sock patterns you see will ask you to use the magic loop method.What is that you ask? Have a read of La Mercerie’s blog post Two at a Time Socks to see how you can use the magic loop method to knit both socks simultaneously!
Sock Needles
Well some people simply aren’t a fan of the magic loop method and like to work with double-pointed needles.You may have seen people with five double-pointed needles sticking out of their tiny sock and wondered how they’re managing to control them all!
These Addi CraSyTrip Sock Needles are a modern solution that allows you to knit as you would with double-pointed needles, but much easier to use!
Tiny needles for tiny projects. If you don’t like the magic loop method AND don’t want to work with double-pointed needles, try Addi Sock Wonder Needles. They are essentially tiny circular needles that allow you to knit in the round.
Sock Tools
You probably wouldn’t want to keep trying your socks in progress on your feet to find out when to start the heel turn, especially if you’re knitting in public. That’s why we made these Wooden Socks Rulers for you to measure your feet against! Once you’ve found out the length at which you’re supposed to start the heel turn, just put your socks on the socks ruler to see where you’re up to 🙂
Once your socks are done, soak them in lukewarm water with a wool wash for 15-20 minutes, squeeze out excess water and hang them up to dry on these Wooden Sock Blockers. These come in three different sizes, and you can even use them to show off your hand-knitted socks.
Hope you’re now a little more confident about knitting socks!
Feel free to swing by the store and ask if you need any further help 🙂
Feel free to swing by the store and ask if you need any further help 🙂
Alex & the Loopine Team
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