sock history

When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?

I started making socks about four years ago. I made one sock using a customized pattern that I found online somewhere. The sock didn't really fit and the second sock languished on the needles for years until I decided that I needed them for something else and ripped them out of the project. The half-knit ribbing then dangled around the ball of yarn for years.


What was your first pair? How have they "held up" over time?

Since that pair never really reached completion, I guess my second sock project was really my first pair. I don't know how they've held up or if the recipient actually wears them.


What would you have done differently?

I think I liked the way those came out, but since I haven't been around to see them age, there could have been a glaring error or finishing issue that I don't know about.

What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?

It's only been those two sock projects for me, so I've only used Sisu sock yarn in pumpkin tweed and Patons Kroy. I don't think either one was spectacular, so maybe I would have chosen to use nicer yarn! The Sisu yarn is actually three threads held together, making for a pretty splitty knitting experience. Up next after the tiny pair I'm making out of those is some Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock. Anticipation is high.


Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?

I've only used dpns so far. When I had been reading about socks online, the Magic Loop method had this aura of mystery, but when I found out that it was really just making a loop out of the extra cable from the circular needle, I felt let down. I had been doing something similar to finish hats when I didn't have the corresponding pair of double pointed needles, and found that experience to be far from magical. I could be prompted to use circular needles to make two socks at once, but circular needles don't grow on trees or in community garden plots!


Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)

I don't really have a preference at this point. Maybe I will have one once I make a pair of socks for myself that fits. Then I will also join the Handknit Socks + Shoes = Happiness Forever flickr pool.


How many pairs have you made?

1 pair and two half pairs.