“I find people interesting. People trying hard are interesting. People with a passion are interesting – whether it’s old cars or taxidermy or knitting.” — Clare Balding. (I agree with you Clare)
I did it. I made my own socks. I’ve held off making socks because I’ve been intimidated by the many knitters who grumble about doing short rows (for the non-knitters out there, that’s basically how you shape the toes/heels). I buried those intimidations and dipped my toe into sock making. This was a project filled with firsts for me: First pair of socks; first pair made toe-up; first pair socks made two-at-a-time (although I’ve made mittens two-at-a-time); first short rows; first eye-of-the-partridge heel; first time using the seamless Judy’s magic cast on.
I think they turned out not half bad and there are no mistakes — at least none that I’m aware of! I’ll admit they are a tad loose but I’ll use a smaller needle next time and that will make a difference. Since I strongly dislike using double pointed needles, I much prefer using the magic loop method (two needles; one long cord). And a note about the colour: You’ll see each photo of my socks is either black and white or a varied tone of black and white. That’s because I didn’t care for the colour of the yarn and I really, really did not like it as I was knitting and especially once it was complete. I dislike the colour so much I plan on dying the socks. That will be another first for me.
Besides learning some new techniques, I’ve also learned that I really do not care much for variegated yarns, at least the ones with high contrast. Yet, I do enjoy the self-striping yarns. I’m full of conundrums it seems.
For knitters out there, here are the stats:
Yarn: Yarn Indulgences BFL Sock in colourway, Water and Sprouts
Pattern: Basic Toe-up Socks with a Heel Flap by Liat Gat
I’m quite excited to actually begin another pair. I’m also seriously thinking socks would make a great gift item so there are more socks in my future for sure.
“Knitting is clothing made in spare moments, or round the fire, whenever women gathered together… It’s something to celebrate–clothes made in love and service, something women have always done.” — Anne Bartlett
Do you enjoy a challenge? Does a challenge motivate you or intimidate you?
Thamks for sharing. I’m a novice knitter and I find socks intimidating. You’ve inspired me to give it a try. ?
Your socks are wonderful! Congratulations! I always say that knitting socks makes me feel like a “real knitter”. 🙂 Silly I know!
Well they came out beautifully, Diane! And while you may not like the variegated yarn in color, I think it looks gorgeous in the photos..especially in sepia.
As far as challenges go, I have at times been motivated and intrigued and other times scared and intimidated. But it feels so good when there is success! 🙂
Diane, they are just wonderful!!
You are truly such an inspiration.
Fantastic!!! Those socks are beautiful.
You are rather amazing. You tried so many different techniques for your first socks.
They look so soft. Congrats on a new skill.
Boy, I’m so impressed. I watched my daughter knit socks and appreciate the time and patience. My socks are off to you. Whoops, I think the saying is my hat is off to you.
you certainly don’t do things half-way….two at a time, first time sock knitter?!? You go girl!!! They turned out great. I’m sure you know…..socks are addictive, so hopefully, you’ve cleaned out a drawer; you’ll be filling it up soon!
Nice work on your first socks! I love that first quote, its so true. People with a passion about something can make anything interesting!