Knit Socks - Betsy Lee Mccarthy [1]
Since the first book came out, I've listened to sock knitters, and in response, I added new material to answer a question frequently asked by knitters who learned to knit socks on circular needles: “How can I knit socks on one or two circular needles if the pattern is written for double points?” The simple answer is that you can knit any sock pattern on any type of needle, and this edition explains how to do that. (See pages 19–22.) Most of the patterns here are written for beginning and ending on the right-hand side of the sock as worn. Needles 1 and 2 (with a few exceptions that are spelled out) hold the instep stitches, and Needles 3 and 4 hold the heel/sole stitches. A few patterns start and end in the middle of the heel/sole to hide color changes.
Additionally, three new patterns, each with several interchangeable stitch patterns that turn those three patterns into eight, are included in this expanded edition. I hope they will provide hours of knitting pleasure and encouragement to knitters who want to create their own patterns once they see how one basic pattern can be developed into others. I also provide information on the expanding sock yarn fiber options, as well as new sock knitting tips and suggestions for taking your sock knitting to a new level.
More experienced knitters, be assured that this book isn't just for beginners. If you're already a sock knitter, you'll find 17 sock patterns, with size and yarn-weight options, plus tips and techniques for increasing the beauty, durability, and fit of your handmade socks. Most are easy to learn, making them perfect candidates for hours of relaxing, meditative, or social knitting.
Yes, it's an exciting time in the sock knitting universe. While almost nothing seems impossible, I encourage future sock knitters to learn by knitting one sock at a time or to knit a pair simultaneously on separate needles/needle sets (see Tea for Two, page 12). This book is for sock knitters — past, present, and potential. May our spirits be uplifted as we bring joy to ourselves and others by knitting socks together!
What You'll Need for the Journey
All you really must have to knit socks is some pleasing yarn, appropriately sized needles, a pattern, basic knitting skills, and a commitment to the project. That being said, a well-equipped knitting bag will enhance your knitting pleasure and increase the likelihood of your success. While you can always discover more gizmos, the few basic items recommended are highly portable, simple, and fairly inexpensive:
• Needles in size required for your project (double point, or one or two circulars)
• Adequate yarn for the project (Each pattern gives the required amount.)
• A working copy of the pattern (Photocopies allow you to make notes on your pattern without marring your book; make photocopies only from your own book, for your own use.)
• Needle and stitch gauge with a built-in ruler and holes for measuring needle size
• Retractable measuring tape showing inches and centimeters
• Tapestry needle (blunt) and a large-eyed sharp needle
• Plastic stitch markers or coilless safety pins
• Small sewing scissors or a yarn snipper
• Crochet hooks in several sizes (Look for a hook slightly smaller than the project needles, so you won't stretch the stitches when you use it; hook sizes B, D, and F cover the patterns here.)
• Pencil and small eraser
• Self-sticking notepads
• Knitting bag that functions well — and makes you smile!
In addition to these essentials, you may also find the following useful:
• Knitting needle point protectors or double-point needle holders (these keep stitches from slipping off the needle when it's not being used)
• Small hand calculator (if you're likely to modify pattern sizes)
• Sock heel and toe