Late last evening, I started working on a knitted sock; I’ll post of my beginning socks in a few hours.
Since it’s been almost twenty years since I’ve knitted socks, I decided to pick up where I left off, and so I reached for my DPNs (double pointed needles). I’m thrilled that I’m remembering a lot of the sock knitting basics, and thus far sock knitting with double pointed needles has been a breeze.
During my pre-teen years, when I first started working with DPN’s, it was slightly intimidating. What was extremely helpful was realizing that the extra needles are only stitch markers, and as long as I didn’t knit too loosely; the needles wouldn’t fall off. If you’re new to sock knitting, DPNs, need a refresher course, or are simply curious at one way socks are hand knit, check out the above video.
The socks I’m knitting are featured in the book The Joy of Sox: 30+ must-knit designs. You see the socks on the above cover? Those are the ones I’m knitting.
I just received this book yesterday, and I love it. The photos are amazing, and the patterns are straightforward. There are enough patterns available for even a new knitter to cast on. For the above socks, I’m using worsted weight yarn. Since most animal fibers make me itch, my yarn of choice for these knitted socks is a cotton and polyester blend. I’ll be using white, dusty rose, and perhaps a pale yellow? During cooler months, I like keeping my toes free when I’m around the house, and these socks also work perfectly for some of my exercises I do around the house and at the gym. While showcasing my polished toenails. 😉
Sock knit along
Oh by the way…
I’m participating in a sock knit along. I met the blogger last year on Ravelry, and only recently started chatting with him through his blog posts. What got my attention was a gorgeous cable knit sweater he was wearing in his profile picture. I love knitting cables! A heterosexual man that knits? Yes, he happens to be one of them. More on his sock knit along, when I post my WIP socks — later today.
Ugh. DPNs! Do Not Like! LOL. I have a hard time with those. Either because of my clumsy mechanic hands or because they are just so darn slippery, those needles. I’m glad you don’t have that problem though because I love knitted socks and am looking forward to seeing what you come up with. I kind of gave up on making socks myself, but did get hold of a sock loom so may give that a try sometime. I think that would be easier for me.
teeni recently posted..July News
I seriously thought about a sock loom @teeni, It seems like it’d make the process a bit easier. The most challenging parts for me were the toe and the heel.
I used to have issues with DPNs too, not so much anymore, and for that I’m thrilled!
Aynaria recently posted..Owl’s it going? Owl cables, appliques, and hat; finished object Friday
I’m thinking of learning this way also for socks. I still mess up with the magic loop so I think learning another way will give me options. Can’t wait to see your finished socks.
Nicky recently posted..In the Midnight Hour
Hi @Nicky, Magic Loop seems just as “fiddly” as DPNs, I much prefer DPNs, instead of doing all that things I deem unnecessary, just so I can use circulars. Of course, this is just my opinion. I love knitting with circular needles and use them for everything but socks and cable needles. I use an actual cable needle or a DPN for those.
I’m really not into knitting thing but I’m glad to see this post. Seeing that lovely socks makes me wanna try to do this knitting art. Thanks for sharing that wonderful video.
HI @mira,
You should give it a try if you’re curious, there are a variety of things you can create with knitting or crochet. From simple to complex, I love haute couture, so things I make for myself (crochet, knitting, and sewing) will usually reflect that. 😉
Aynaria recently posted..Updates; Back online, family room renovations, and Knit Picks interchangeable circular needles have arrived
Only use two circulars to knit socks and hats. Arthritis means no dpn. 😎 Have you tried the magic loop? I got a long #2 to try it, but since my 2 circulars work just fine I haven’t tried it. Just curious!
Hello @curls and q, I’ve used magic loop, but not to knit socks (yet). I’ve promised myself that I’ll make socks with them, before I make a decision. I must admit I do adore dpn’s for sock making.
Aynaria recently posted..Owl’s it going? Owl cables, appliques, and hat; finished object Friday