Let’s talk about socks, baby! They’re SCARY, right?!
Ok, I’m being dramatic as per us. In retrospect, I shouldn’t have been scared to knit socks, but based on what others said about sock knitting, I was shaking (sockless) in my boots! I hesitated to take up sock knitting for years! Then last summer (2020) I began my very first pair of socks! Out the gate, it was smooth sailing! I decided that my preferred method of sock knitting was “two at a time, toe up.” Then, I realized I had made a mistake. These socks were going to be way too big… too timid to frog, I put the project on timeout and went on to other things.
Then in December of 2020 Elisabeth of @desamourdesigns was hosting her annual BIPOCMAL (Black, Indigenous, People of Color Make-a-Long) so I decided to join. I started my #SocksForHermitsAndHomebodies designed by Dawn Henderson of @knit.yarn.stuff using yarn dyed by Nina of @brujerialana in the Flicker colorway. Although this sock pattern wasn’t knit from the toe up, I decided to go ‘head and follow the pattern (but still do two at a time). Being that the yarn I was using was DK (Double Knitting) weight, the socks were a breeze! Knitting those DK socks built up my confidence and I felt ready to revisit my other sock project.
I’ve since finished that first pair of socks, a pair for my mom’s 60th birthday, and I’ve casted on two more pairs of socks recently! It’s safe to say I LOVE knitting socks! If you’re on the fence about sock knitting, or terrified of the process, I’m here to tell you, JUST KNIT THE SOCKS!!
Pictured from left to right, #socksforhermitsandhomebodies pattern by Dawn Henderson, vanilla socks in Brujeria Lana's Candy Rain colorway, vanilla socks for my mom's 60th birthday gift.
Ten Reasons I Love to Knit Socks!
- Socks are small and easy to transport, so you can knit anywhere!
- They work up relatively quickly! (great palate cleanser between big projects)
- You can easily practice new/challenging techniques and stitches.
- Socks make an awesome and very personal gift.
- I live in a warmer climate, so knitting tons of sweaters and beanies isn’t very practical. Socks allow me to always have something useful to work on.
- Knit socks are extremely cozy & comfortable.
- Wool socks are great all year long, they keep your feet dry in the warmer months, and warm in the colder months.
- Knit socks use very little yarn, inexpensive and great for stash busting.
- You get to brag that you’re “A Sock Knitter,” which is pretty bad ass!
- THEY’RE FREAKIN CUTE, OK?
I think I covered everything here. Have I convinced you yet?! Sock knitters, if you have any more reasons to add, comment below!
-Whit
