Oct 03 2006
Beginnings: Sharing Your Sock History
Many Socktoberists signed up for this project having never knit socks before. Why not join a group where there are hundreds of crafters who can lend a helping hand? a word of encouragement? or some helpful advice (or tutorial?)
My first handknit socks were far from perfect. They were way too big, as I could not regulate my gauge on the double-pointed-needles, and they took me a long time to complete. I have to admit, I was not feeling the sock love while working through my first sock way back when (summer 2005).
It was not until I finished the second sock and slipped them on my feet did I realize the allure of the handcrafted sock!
With each sock I have made over the last year, I have enjoyed the process more and more. Bonne Marie often talks about "the magic of the heel turn", and you know what? it still gets me every time!
There are new sock crafters and experienced ones gathering in this virtual space to share our love of handcrafted socks (I say handcrafted as we have many sock crocheters in the bunch as well!) I am very excited to see this broad range of crafting, and if one of the sock crocheters out there is willing to share, I would love to learn more about the technique!
Several of the beginners among us have shared their desire to learn more about what sock patterns, needles, hooks, and yarns work well and stand the test of time. There are many experienced sock crafters who have great information to share, and I encourage you to do so!
- When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?
- What was your first pair? How have they "held up" over time?
- What would you have done differently?
- What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
- Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
- Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
- How many pairs have you made?
Feel free to answer one (or all!) of these questions, here in the comment section or on your own site. Feel free to share pictures too! I will do the same in the coming days. The Socktoberfest Flickr group is a great place for the non-bloggers among us to share their work, and to receive feedback. If you do in fact choose to answer these questions on your own site, please leave a comment here to direct others to your page. Plus, click around and meet some new friends! Our group is so large and diverse - Socktoberfest is being celebrated on all of the continents! (okay, not Antartica… still waiting for that one…)
I find it very interesting to learn more about your personal craft history – share your sock making experiences with us all. We can all benefit and learn from each other, beginners and advanced crafters alike.
Kick up your heels for SOCKTOBERFEST 2006!!!
I’m a relatively recent sock addict, but so far all my socks have been plain stockinette or ribbed. I am constantly ogling all the sexy sock patterns, totally and passionately enamored of a few patterns I’ve worshipped longingly from afar for several months. I’ve done a fair bit of lace work in tops but nothing fancy in the sock department yet. So I set my personal Socktoberfest challenge: this month I am planning to make a pair of Pomatomus and a pair of Baudelaire, as well as finishing the mates to all of my sad lonely sock singles.
Uh oh. I am hooked on the toe-up version; either on dpns or magic loop, various provisional cast-on methods, short-rows (preferred) or increased – but I always go for the toe-up approach: I just love the way the toe box looks and feels, I can adjust for fit as I go, and I don’t have to worry about how much yarn I have, I just start at the toe and knit until it’s done (because Koigu is a terrible thing to waste).
Alas, the lovely Pomatomus is knitted top-down. So it looks like I’m going to have to convert this pattern to a toe-up direction. Aaack! I’m pretty confident juggling sweater patterns, but I don’t really think in “sock” yet, so I’m not all that eager to reverse the pattern direction myself. Hmmm… I think I’ll be getting some good old-fashioned advice for this one.
* When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class? Self taught by Socks Soar on Two Circs, the pattern I used, and Google searches
* What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time? My first pair was Anna Bells Elfine Socks with Koigu. They’ve held up wonderfully.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/68667615@N00/105453557/in/set-72157594238482972/
* What would you have done differently? Same brand yarn, but in a semi-solid
* What yarns have you particularly enjoyed? Koigu, Blue Moon Fiber Arts and Interlacements.
* Do you like to crochet your socks? No way or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method? Magic loop. – One or two socks at a time.
* Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?) Flap
* How many pairs have you made? only five.
I can’t even remember when I started knitting socks. I was hit by the sock bug at least 7 or 8 years ago from discussions about sock knitting on the big knit list. I taught myself to knit socks. I bought the Spin Off socks book by Interweave Press and I have never looked back. When I got the Socks Socks Socks book by XrX (the Knitter’s magazine people) I tried knitting the Tiger Eye socks in that book. That was my first experience knitting from the toe up. Because I really don’t like grafting toes (it hurts my hands) I almost exclusively knit socks from the toe up.
Now that I learned how to knit using the magic loop, I don’t even bother with dpns anymore. My increase the sts for my toes and heels. I have never done the short row toe and I will have to give that a try. I have done the short row heel and I don’t like it. I prefer the heel that looks like ribbing because I feel it gives more strength to the heel.
MezzoDiva mentioned the Pomatomus socks. I have done them cuff down. It is the first time I have knit socks cuff down in years. The sock is a fun knit but I definitely would convert it to toe up if I knit the pattern again.
My very favourite toe up pattern is the Basic Toe Up Socks Worksheet from Heartstrings. I have been using it since I discovered toe up socks and it is very well written and explained. Best of all, I can get the ribbed heel that I like. I also love the hints and tips in the Sensational Knitted Socks book by Charlene Schurch. I hope mentioning both those things aren’t a problem.
I am working on my first sock design. I tried one pattern first and I did one sock with it and then decided I wanted to try something else. I still want to finish the second sock so they become a pair. I bought new sock yarn by Online. It’s a self patterning yarn and I want to make that as well before the end of the month. It will be fun to see how much I can accomplish this month.
When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?
November 2004. A lady at the stitch n bitch I go to taught me to knit. I taught myself to use DPNs.
What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time?
Slipper socks I made for my boyfriend from Lion Brand Thick n Quick? I think that’s what it’s called. Super bulky knitted on size 13 DPNs (yeah). They are black and I put white Xs on the feet at his request. They have held up, he is going to wear them for a third winter now.
What would you have done differently?
Nothing really, I like how they turned out!
What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
Lorna’s Laces. Koigu.
Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
I use a 40″ circular. 2 at a time.
Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
Short row all the way.
How many pairs have you made?
Four. Working on 5 and 6.
I’ve answered on my blog:)
* When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?
Christmas 2004. Taught myself (through much trail and error).
* What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time?
I do wear my blue stripey and green lacey ones- whenever my feet are super chilly. They’ve held up fine, although I can’t say I’ve washed them all that much (really, they’re only on my feet for a few hours at a time). The nice thing about hand-knitted wool socks is that they don’t stink. Ever. Really. They just smell like wool.
* What would you have done differently?
Nothing. Any errors I made I fixed. I first learned the Kitchener Stitch when grafting a toe closed. Actually, maybe I would have liked to have started out on something like “comfy house socks” or something on #5 needles. Starting on #2 was kind of tedious, after knitting everything else I made (scarves, hats) on beginner’s #13 needles. You know what I mean? All knitters I know start out with #13 needles and super bulky yarn, because all the stitches are big and easy to see and projects knit up fast. There should be “beginner’s socks”.
* What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
I liked the automatic thick stripes of my blue ones. Knit Picks Gloss has been nice. I haven’t knit with anything too fine yet.
* Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
Used 2 circulars in the beginning but after recently doing two separately on douple-pointed needles, I think I prefer DPN’s. It’s more managable and portable. Easier to do the turning heel and gusset, too.
* Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
Haven’t tried short-row yet but I like the tailored look of the flap.
* How many pairs have you made?
4.5
* 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 my first pair of socks less than a year ago. They were my first REAL knitted item. I learned using Cat Bordhi’s book, “Socks on 2 Circular Needles”.
* What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time?
My first pair of socks was just a 2×2 rib in Regia. It’s been less than a year and they’re not my favorite pair of socks to wear, so they look good as new!
* What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
100% merino wool! YUM! Fleece Artist, Cherry Tree Hill. I also like Lorna’s Laces Shepher Sock and Schaeffer Anne.
* Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
No crochet for my socks! I knit 2 socks at a time on 2 circular needles. So far I’ve only knit top-down socks, but I’m getting the itch to try some toe-up socks.
* Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
Short-row, Baby! With an eye of partridge heel flap.
* How many pairs have you made?
I’m currently working on my eighth pair of socks. I’m a slow knitter, I guess, because it takes me about 3 weeks to knit a pair of socks.
I started knitting socks on a whim about 5 or 6 years ago. The first pair I knit were for my husband in worsted weight wool on dpns. There were holes and ladders and the toes were funky but he wore them until they were threadbare. After that I got hooked on the self striping yarn. It took about 4 or 5 before I made a pair. Those odd socks are still waiting for mates…
I started making socks last year from a freebie pattern that came with some Opal self-patterning fair isle stuff – I was fascinated with the way the yarn produced it’s own pattern, and have since then made about 12 pairs. They were a tad baggy, but they are still here and I still wear them. I have since gone off that kind of yarn, so I wish I had chosen something softer to the touch. I knit my socks by 2 circs if I can – magic loop seems to take longer than using 2 needles, if only because you are relying so heavily on the flexibility of the cable. I do like my bamboo dpns though
I love toe-up knitting too – the best way to use up yarn without running out halfway through the foot! I’m still trying out heels – I’d like to try some of the flap variations from Vintage Sock Knitting, and some new provisional cast ons for toe up. I’m still looking for my favourite yarn, but I love Nature’s Palette, Lorna’s Laces (apart from the pooling) and cashmere sock yarn – nothing like luxury socks to let you splash out on a fancy fibre. That’s the beauty of socks – you have the freedom of yarn selection without the worry of cost, and if things go wrong, you don’t spend too long fixing it. And there really isn’t anything like putting a pair of handmade socks on your feet in the middle of a cold snap. Bliss 
I answered – read http://grannysquarewoman.blogspot.com/2006/10/socktoberfest-knitting-socks.html
Great questions! I posted my answers on my blog. Thanks again for hosting this event. It’s been very inspiring so far.
1. 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 less than a year ago. I taught myself using Cat Bordhi’s Socks Soar on 2 Circular Needles and other various books.
2. What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time?
My first pair was something called Slouch Socks from one of the knitting books that I browse through. They were a simple 2×2 rib. Since I never really liked them, I’ve been pretty hard on them but they have held up very well, surprisingly.
3. What would you have done differently?
Nothing really. I guess I needed to do a simple pair for the first pair.
4. What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
I heart Cherry Tree Hill. I just love the feel of that yarn. I also love any sort of self-patterning and self-stripping yarn.
5. Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
I prefer the 2 circulars. Someday I might try the Magic Loop.
6. Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
Short row all the way!
7. How many pairs have you made?
Umm, do single socks count? If not, I have completed 4 pairs. If they do count, 8 pairs. Someday I will finish all of the orphans but Christmas presents must get finished first!
I knit my first sock over 30 years ago as a a young teen. I had been knitting for a few years but mostly sweaters.I found an old booklet on sock making so I walked over to Woolworths and bought a set of DPN’s (Marcia Lynn, this was the mid/late 70′s) and the only fingering weight they had, hot pink, bright orange and white acrylic (six seperate skeins) I taught myself socknitting and kint 3 pairs of socks for my Mom that she wore til they fell apart, which was like 10 years later
The only thing I would do differenlty is use better (read natural) materials!
My favorite sock yarns are Lorna’s Laces Shepherd Sport, STR lightweight, Trekking, Gems Pearl and Opal, Fleece Artist, Cherry Tree Hill, Koigu, BEARFOOT!! Mountan Colors, Silja, Meillenweit, Claudia’s Handpaint…actually it would be easier to say what I don’t like….and that would only be Wildfoote! That stuff is NASTY!! I’m not as hot on Opal as some, it’s kinda thin and scratchy to me. I’m crazy for the handpaints tho and there’s no such thing as bad pooling
My preferred method is 5 DPNs. second would be magic loop with a 40″ addi….2 circs, feh!
My preferred heel is my own “unvention” the yo short row heel with mini flap and gusset. I use the best of the short row and flap heel to get a deeper, better fit on heel cup (info on my blog sidebar)
Lastly, when I knit socks 30 years ago I only made the 3 I described. Since I came back to knitting after a 15 year hiatus and back to sock knitting with a vengance (just 4 years), I’ve knit about 100 pairs for friends, relatives and charity. I’ve only knit 3 pair for myself!
Thank you so much for hosting this again Lolly!!
I taught myself to knit socks on dpns. I went on vacation to Ft. Myers and forgot a project. I stopped at the LYS and she showed me self-striping yarn. I asked her to gather everything I needed to make the socks. When I got back to my hotel I was surprised to see dpns in the bag. I had never used them before. So, while the guys watched football on TV I proceed to teach myself socks.
That was 37 pairs ago. Some fancy. Some plain. All loved. I still have my first pair. They are in pretty good shape considering how much they’ve been worn.
My favorite yarns? Lorna’s Laces Shepherd Sock for the colors. Fortissimo Colori for durability. Always wool or wool blend — not a big fan of the cotton blends and NEVER acrylic. I bought a whole bunch on sale and then found out I hate working with it.
Finally …I’m a flapper.
You can read my answers here:
I rambled out some answers in my typical windy fashion on my blog – http://floofle.blogspot.com
I made my first knit sock about a year ago with some worsted weight Wool-Ease. I followed Knitty’s Sock 101 tutorial (which is superb!) and got about the same results as Lolly’s first sock. But it was a great start and still very encouraging. I’ve since made 2 other socks from worsted weight Wool-Ease using D-Made, Knitty, and my own patterns. I’m comfortable with dpns and magic loop, though I find that magic looping requires a little more pre-planning and finesse. I love cheap yarn and Knitpicks sock yarn fits the bill. I lean towards a flap heel because I think it looks neater and fits better.
I’ve learned quickly that socks make great gifts! I’m surprised by the response I get from people I’ve knit socks for. My mom raves about how they fit, and they’re great for the knitter since they don’t take forever like a sweater does.
Baudelaire, here I come!! I’ll gauge swatching by the weekend! Can’t wait to see the sock porn.
I’ve answered on my blog.
Hello Lolly,
it’s about socks, so I cannot resist…
You wouldn’t believe it but I only started knitting socks when I was 21. It just seemed such a waste of time before. My Mom taught me, and I still own the first pair I knitted and wouldn’t change a thing about them.
I am a dpn girl through and through, I tried the 2 circs method and don’t like it. Heelwise I am a flapper – the short row heel doesn’t do it for me.
Crochet socks? Puuuleeaaase. No thanks.
I am wildly in love with Mountain Colour Bearfoot and Schaefer Anne, and the latest discovery on my list is “Apple Pie” from Apple Laine. I just wish they would come in solid colours, too.
How many pairs I have made? I don’t know. Lots, and lots and lots.
It’s a lot of fun reading the answers to these questions. I answered them over on my blog and included some pictures. I also took the liberty of adding a few other questions and answers.
http://jeanniefanihi.blogspot.com/2006/10/knitting-socks.html
* When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?
This past weekend! I’m halfway through my first sock (Jaywalker). In the interest of full disclosure, I started a pair of felted sock slippers a few months back as practice (I never finished them though).
* What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time?
I truly hope they hold up over time.
* What would you have done differently?
I haven’t been fixing my little mistakes. Once I’m more comfortable with sock knitting I’ll start fixing every little mess-up.
* What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
Haven’t tried enough to know!
* Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
5 dpn
* Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
Haven’t yet tried the flap but plan to. I think it looks nicer.
* How many pairs have you made?
.25!
Socks, Socks, and More Socks…
I am on a ROLL! I finished the second sock for the Mata Hari’s: Yarn: STR in Lemongrass Pattern: Mata Hari Socks Needles: Size 2 These were so easy to do… but they would have been easier if I did……
* When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class? I am still learning – on my second sock, kind of. I have yet to complete the first sock I knit. Having made it too long, I never finished the toe. But, I loved knitting it, so I started on another, with a yarn I am really excited about, using the Retro Rib pattern from IK W04.
* What would you have done differently? I didn’t knit a guage swatch – I know! So am thinking they might be a bit big. But, I would rather have them big than small – at least they will have room to shrink a bit!
* What yarns have you particularly enjoyed? I am using Spunky Eclectic in a color called “Fireplace” right now. I love the yarn – I am not sure of weight and make – I don’t have the label with me. I have two skeins of it in “Dinosaur” ordered – and am excited to start knitting those socks. My conflict is that I love variagated yarns, but many patterns don’t seem to show up as well in a variagated. I like the retro rib because it has texture that shows through the colors.
* Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method? I like using DPN’s, but haven’t tried other methods, so perhaps I would like them as well.
I want to try knitting from the toe up for my next pair.
I answered on my blog. Hop over to see what my history is. http://knittingalpacas.blogspot.com/2006/10/socktoberfest-question-and-answer.html
Take a look on my blog, if you like!
http://knittingajour.blogspot.com
groeten uit Nederland
Thanks for sharing your first sock story, Lauren! It was fun to read the comments of others too!
Ah, yes. My first pair of socks. Coincidentally, my first sock experience was also my first cable experience. My very first (and very fantastic) secret pal had sent me the pattern & yarn for the Celtic Braid Socks. They were purple, and though they seemed to take forever to make, I loved the experience.
They actually turned out quite nicely. They fit pretty well & I loved them. Notice I speak of them in the past tense? They were 100% wool & my hubby accidentally felted them in the laundry. I still have them, but don’t wear them oftern as they are a bit… small and … thick. BUt I still haul them out for a visit when the winter days get really cold.
I’m happy to say that socks no longer seem to take forever to knit & my skills have increased with every pair. My absolute FAVORITE resource for sock patterns is the book, “Sensational Knitted Socks.” I’m knitting the waterfall rib from that book right now!
oh god, I was looking at my first pair the other day….let’s just say they stay in the drawer : )
I posted my answers on my site: http://www.baublesandpurls.blogspot.com
I’m so happy to be involved in this! It sounds like fun to talk about and knit socks for a whole month! Whoohoo! Especially considering the fact that none of my friends off-line knit. Stinkers.
Please come see the progress of my first sock ever….it’s on my blog.
Thanks! Julie
When did you start making socks?
I started knitting socks almost exactly a year ago, and I taught myself from a simple handout. My first pair was with single precious skein of Cherry Tree Hill merino silk DK, and they took me a whole week, two nights on the first heel alone (I re-knit it manymany times before I got it right.) I wore them once, and then my darling husband did some laundry for me… I actually cried when he shamefacedly exited the laundry room with two very wide, very very short felted socks. (Yes, we have a “knitties only” laundry basket now.)
I knit my socks with a tight fabric, and so far none of them have worn out yet, but then again they’re all under a year old.
What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
Oh, goodness, I love them all! I like Fleece Artist Merino sock yarn, CTH Supersock, Trekking XL, Opal, Blue Moon Sock That Rock is a favorite… I’ve started spinning my own and dying blank sock yarn too!
Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
I’m not a crocheter – I cannot do it (well) to save my life. I am a total dpn user, as I like the old-fashioned feel and the looks you get while knitting in public when people assume you’ve tangled a porcupine in your skein of yarn.
Which kind of heel do you prefer?
I like flap heels the best. I look forward to the precision of the gusset decreasing, and I like the opportunity to create a tiny pattern in the slipped stitches of the heel flap. I have tried short row heels, and though I appreciate their speed, they don’t fit as well, and I can’t make them look neat.
How many pairs have you made?
I’m losing track… I belive I have the 2nd sock of pairs 15 and 16 on the needles right now… (I always have 2 pairs of socks going – one easy, one more difficult.)
Blogged =)
Woo! I posted my questionnaire as well. I love reading everyone’s responses!
http://www.fiberfetishist.com/?p=412
My first sock was a baby sock that I made for a sock class. We used some nubby yarn form TLC. It drove me nutty, but I learned the basics.
My adult first sock was was too long. I didn’t know where to start the toe.
My first successful pair of socks were made with LB Magic Stripes yarn and the pattern was from a 2004 issue of Knit It. I still use that pattern today, and still have those socks.
I haven’t joined in, but I may just give the sock knitting a try and silently follow along with the rest of you.
Thanks for organizing this! I am having a blast. Sock love!
Great questions! I answered on my blog. http://shannanstitches.blogspot.com/2006/10/socktoberfest-questions.html
I’ve just posted mine on my blog. It’s amazing to see the different experiences people have had with socks!
Great idea to get to know each other!
my answers are on my blog!
Great questions! I posted my answers on my blog.
That was fun! You can find my answers on my blog. http://bluelacefiesta.blogspot.com/2006/10/socking-history.html
Great way to kick off Socktoberfest! I’ll be answering on the blog soon.
Hey lolly! I’ve missed about four of your blog posts! yikes! I am going to answer this one on my own blog this week. This is a great way to kick off Socktoberfest!
The craftybastards fest looked like so much fun! I wish we had that sort of thing up here in the Inland NW. sigh.
1. 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 less than a year ago. I taught myself using a book. 2. What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time?
My first pair was worsted weight from website. They were a simple I have really liked them, I wear them with my birkie’s. They have held up so far.
3. What would you have done differently?
Nothing really. I guess I needed to do a simple pair for the first pair.
4. What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
I love any sort of self-patterning and self-stripping yarn. I have some Cherry Hill to make two pair for my daughters for Christmas.
5. Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
I have used DPN’s and I have a pair on two circulars right now for my dh. My secret pal sent me the book on how too for two circulars. I think I prefer DPN’s I can move faster, LOL.
6. Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
Flap so far. I haven’t tried the other one yet.
7. How many pairs have you made?
On my third pair now. And one sock with the UFO second one went off to my assassin in the sock wars, LOL.
i’m so glad i came across socktoberfest!
my answers are at http://www.knitalie.blogspot.com
happy sock knitting everyone!!
ok, definately adding this to my blog.
I posted on my blog about Socktoberfest. Check it out.
http://www.knittinbusy.blogspot.com/
hey!! those socks look awesome!
i miss you! do you think you are going to be able to see the show? that would be awesome!! much love. jami!
I’m knitting my 44th pair right now. All on two circs, toe-up, using Judy Gibson’s generic toe-up pattern as the base, with the square toe cast-on from the socknitters toe-up tutorial (links in my sidebar). My first pair – I was knitting them in bulky yarn (I knew I was going to make mistakes and I wanted to make them quickly and move on) for my then-boyfriend who was 6’5″… the socks ended up fitting me. Whoops!
It’s so fun to look back on our own knitting histories and see how much progress we’ve made. I know that I’ve come a long way since my first socks. The questions are intriguing, I’ll answer them over on the blog later this week.
Fun questions! I love looking back at “history.” I answered over on my blog:
http://www.persistentillusion.com/blogblog/archive/2006/10/03/732/frequently-asked-sock-questions
Answered on my blog, as well as my Socktoberfest goals.
Actually one of my employees leaves tomorrow for Antartica. She is a knitting geologist and will be working on socks down there for the next 6 months or so.
I’ll be posting my answers tomorrow on my blog.
I answered on my blog, too.
http://knitopia.blogspot.com/2006/10/socktoberfest-questions.html
Great questions! I am having fun with Socktoberfest. I answered your questions on my blog.
Posted my answers on my blog. http://aliassak.blogspot.com
I posted my answers here: http://www.catharticink.com/index.php?archive=1159937548
I posted my answers on my new blog! http://catrinr.typepad.com/everyday_life/
I posted my answers on my blog:
Moirae Knitting: http://www.threefates.wordpress.com. I’ve added a few questions.
People might prefer the flickr slideshow to the group – that way you can knit. You can always click on the photo to pause the show and see the comments.
I posted my answers on my blog:
http://joknits.blogspot.com
Hi,
Well, I first made socks over 20 years ago and have been knitting socks ever since. My mother and grandmother taught me how to knit, but I taught myself how to make socks, simply follow the directions in a knitting book.
My first pair was a pair of skiing socks, almost knee high, striped in two tones of blue (no variegated or self striping sock yarns available then). I think I wore them for at least 5 or 6 winters both skiing, in my riding boots, whenever I wanted toasty feet.
The only thing I would have changed is cast on a few more stitches initially and then decrease, since at the beginning, they were rather tight at the top. But over time, that too changed, LOL.
When it comes to sock knitting, I have long used Lang, Regia and Lana Grossa. Now I prefer individually handpainted yarns by various fiber artists, simply for their variety. However, I do go back to Regia or Lang when I need solid color yarn for a specific project ( Like Eunny’s Chuck’s Cable Socks or Bayerische Socks).
I knit on DPN’s, but have recently used two circs for the sock of doom, since I had no DPN’s to match the DK yarn specified. It was ok, but I prefer my DPN’s.
As long as the heel fits well and works nicely with the pattern, I knit both and enjoy both. Mostly for socks of my own design, I knit a short row heel.
How many pairs…. oh… 50, 60 over the years.
By the way,
anyone interested in another “Sock” KAL, I have started one for Chuck’s Cabled Socks.
See me at
http://www.chuckscablesocks.blogspot.com to sign up.
Bettina
First pair of socks made for my Mum for Mother’s Day using Opal self-patterning! loved sock knitting straight away until we got to Kitchener stitch! Very lumpy toes, poor Mum! Second pair saw determination to get it right, same yarn, different colourway. No luck! Third pair used thicker yarn, and had a *cable* – how special!!! For boyfriends mothers 70th. Lovely! worked well. Now in Socktoberfest, I am attempting my first “toe-ups” for one pair (see my blog) and a lace pair knitted from cuff down, so I can compare methods for favoritism. I like 4 dpn’s, toe-up pattern calls for 5, so we shall see…
i blogged my answers. thanks for giving me something to post about
Just finished a pair last night — see blog for sock-knitting history.
I answered this awesome questionnaire on my blog!
http://www.grumperina.com/knitblog/archives/2006/10/sock_history.htm
I answered the questionnaire on my blog…. http://fabricnfiberfanatic.blogspot.com/2006/10/sharing-my-sock-history.html
Hi, I read your post after I did an update, but I think it’s a great way to share. I’ll post my answers a little later today on my blog at http://toeshoespunkrockandpurl. Better run – my teacher’s looking!
I’ll be posting my answers soon. socktober’s a blast.
Fun excercise, and gave me an excuse to pull out all the socks I’ve made for a photo shoot.
http://skhpottery.blogspot.com/
Wow, nice way to review everyone’s sockish histories. Questions have been answered on my blog.
I answered! On my blog! That was fun, and interesting too.
http://sawkmonkey.blogspot.com/
I’ve posted my quiz answers on my blog, come on over!
I posted my answers on my blog as well!
Thanks so much again for doing this! How fun, I’ve been loving reading about other people’s socky adventures. I just finished my very first sock, and am totally psyched to keep at it!! Thanks for the encouragement
(Blushing at the ineptitude.) Just click my name.
Lolly What a great idea. Now I can spend more time reading the answers instead of knitting! I have answered all on my blog. Just click on over.
My answers are at my blog – stop on over to http://www.askatknits.blogspot.com and see. Have a great day everyone!
My answers are on my blog today:
http://auntieannknits.blogspot.com/2006/10/socktoberfest-my-sock-history.html
Thanks for hosting this, Lolly!
I posted the answers on my blog. It was really fun to go back and see what socks I’ve knit. I sort of did a sock knitting inventory on my blog too. And a really good way to figure out what size to make the socks for your friends is this – http://www.thedietdiary.com/knittingfiend/Sock/FeetLength.html. It’s worked for two of the pairs of socks I’ve made in the last year or so.
[...] Anyway, that’s about it, look for 2 more skeins in the shop soon, and a post about my sock history to kick off my Socktoberfest Knitting! [...]
Hey Lolly, I posted my socktober questionaire on my blog this morning…
(http://lanaknits.blogspot.com/2006/10/socktober-fest-2006-cute-kitty.html)
Have a great day!
hi lolly,
this is such a great idea. thanks for stepping up and hosting. how much sock fun are you going to cram into this month? sheesh.
anyway, i answered on my blog here: http://crankygrrrrrl.wordpress.com/2006/10/04/happy-socktober/. have a great socktober!!
I have posted my answers to the questions on my blog. Here http://yearnsforyarn.blogspot.com/2006/10/socktoberfest.html
I’ve answered on my blog! I’m really looking forward to snooping around and checking out everyone’s answers!!!
My blog has my sock history on it. Thanks again for organizing this! It’s been fun reading everyone else’s sock history!
http://www.irishcloverknits.blogspot.com
http://bzzlarabzz.blogspot.com/
I answered the questions on my blog. Fun!
I also answered the questions on my blog. I’m such a newbie!
I have fun answering these questions. The list is on my blog!!!
http://tammysknitting.blogspot.com/
Answered on my blog!
Hi Lolly. You are terrific for organizing and running this. Thank you so much. Knitting is so much more educational, meaningful and fun with events like this one.
Soctoberfest is a great time to consider how and why I make socks. For years I was afraid to try socks. It was something about all those needles, that strange turning, those tiny stitches that stopped me cold. I must have heard of using two circular needles someplace, maybe on the web. So I went into my LYS and asked the owner if she had ever heard of it. It’s the only way to go, she told me, and proceeded to set me up with two size #2 Addi circulars, some Opal yarn, and her own printed instructions. It was clear as mud until she demonstrated how each needle was knitting onto itself. Then something clicked and I have never done socks any other way. That was about two years ago and I have completed about 12 pairs of socks. I have been branching out a little with different stitch patterns but have always used my two circs. I have tried different types of heels and don’t prefer any one. The socks I am knitting now use the eye of partridge style heel and I like the way that looks.
My socks really hold up over time because I never wear them. I am afraid I will get holes or they will wear out. Also, my feet get awfully hot in them. I have a nice collection sitting on top pf a chest in my bedroom that I look at and admire. That really has to stop. I’ve used and enjoyed many yarns. I have to admit I have used all the colors of Lion Brand sock yarn and found them perfectly fine. I have also used Opal, Trekking, Paton’s Kroy and Lorna’s Laces without noticing that much difference except in weight. I am addicted to self-striping and variegated yarn though. I love to see how the colors change.
I have a goal for Soctoberfest, actually two. I would like to try toe-up socks and grafting. For all my socks I have used a three-needle bind off or gathered toe because I am afraid of grafting. After all that work will I drop all the stitches and never pick them up again? But I have a month to try and I will.
Thanks.
Sheri
i have a short (but growing!) history written up on my blog if anyone would like to take a look.
thanks lolly for the idea! i’m at a loss for blog posts recently with all the secret stuff going on. so nice to get a break without a deadline for once!
I wrote my short history on my blog, if you are interested!
I too answered on my blog. If you’ve got some time to kill, come by and tell me what you think.
Good way to get people sharing, Lolly!
[...] Lolly posted a set of questions to mark the early part of Socktoberfest. For lack of any knitting progress that I can show you I bring you my answers… [...]
I posted my answers in today’s post if you are interested.
My answers are posted in my blog also. If you are interested in reading, come on over.
It has been fun reading all the sock knitting experiences! I posted my answers on my blog today.
When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?
I taught myself for the Knitting Olympics from a Lionbrand basic sock pattern.
What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time?
Made the Magic Stripes Lionbrand socks with some Regia yarn I bought in 2004. I have never worn them.
What would you have done differently?
I would have swatched for gauge-the socks ended up huge and slouchy.
What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
I loved working with the Fleece Artist Merino and Artyarns Supermerino.
Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
I’m a 5 DPN gal.
Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
I love toeup short-row socks because I have the hardest time figuring out gussets.
How many pairs have you made?
Including the one’s I’m working on right now about 7 (plus a couple pairs of fuzzyfeet). All except the 1st pair have been done in the last 2 months. I think I’m addicted.
HI EVERYONE! I went ahead and wrote about my 1st pair O socks on my blogs. HAPPY SOCK MAKING!
Great questions, I posted my answers at my blog
http://lostpurl.blogspot.com/
Love all the links you have been putting up
Suzann
[...] A Socktoberfest questionnaire: [...]
Yay, Socktoberfest! I’ve answered these puppies here.
count me in…on the blog — http://www.insubordiknit.com
My answers are at my blog, as well as what I decided to focus on…
http://tapmouseknits2.blogspot.com
Though I’ve been knitting for 40+ years, I only attempted my first sock two years ago. Now I am seriously hooked. I still wear my first pair of Sokotta socks done on dp. The foot is a bit loose. I discovered I like my socks snug and so usually go down one needle size for the foot only. Now I use two circs, usually top down with heel flap. I plan on trying a short row heel for Socktober Fest ’06. Turning the heel is just magical! Kitchener is not so intimidating if you work a “sock chimney” in a contrasting color, but my favorite toe is the round toe.
To all the newbie sock knitters….shawls, sweaters, scarves, booties and hats will come and go, but socks are forever!
Great Questions!! I posted my answers in my blog here.
I love knitting socks! I started a couple of years ago. I learned from a variety of books, plus some help from a number of websites. My first pair (made with Germantown worsted wool obtained on eBay) look a little funny–my gauge tightened up after the gusset on the first one, so it’s a little narrower than the other (I made an effort to relax on the second one). The toes have this funny stovepipe look, and somehow I managed to kitchener in purl on one of them (?). But they are recognizable as socks, and they still make me so happy when I wear them!
Since then, I’ve made 10 pair for myself, 1 pair for the b/f, and who-knows-how-many for CIC. Socks provide such an opportunity to be creative, and you can never have too many! On my blog I have pics of the Halloween socks I designed for myself last year, plus some instructions (not really a pattern, tho’) for anyone who would like to make a pair: http://www.carolslunaticcafe.blogspot.com. Come and visit!
What fun! My answers are on my blog. I’m a new blogger–I hope you’ll go take a look!
My answers are on my blog. I’m pretty new to socks, but it was still fun to look back at how I got started!
Reading all the stories is cutting into my sock knitting time! But they are great so keep posting them everyone. Mine is here:
http://susanknitting.blogspot.com/2006/10/and-socks-continue.html
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 in 2001, after 9-11. Why then? I’m not sure, but I know I was thinking a lot about taking more time to pay attention to the details in life instead of just blazing through. A friend of mine was having a good time knitting socks, and I vaguely remembered that I used to enjoy knitting when I was younger. It was like riding a bicycle to remember how to knit. Socks just seemed like IT to me, because I’ve had this addiction to collecting socks for a long time. Not just any socks, either, they had to be nice, good fabric, not acrylic, not saggy, not itchy. Finding the perfect socks has always been difficult, so why not learn how to make my own? They could be whatever colors I wanted, whatever patterns I liked. I quickly became addicted. Seriously addicted. Now I knit other things too, but mostly socks.
What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time?
What would you have done differently?
My first pair was made out of wool that felted when I washed them, so now they’re super small slipper-like socks. Yes, they’ve held up well, but I can’t really wear them except as slippers. I learned that when wool says “hand wash,” it usually means it. They were really fun and rewarding to make, though, so I don’t know if I would have done anything differently.
What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
I really had a soft spot for Opal for the first few years of knitting socks, but lately I’ve been more obsessed with hand dyed yarns, either randomly dyed or self striping. I’m in love with Socks that Rock, Vesper, Knitterly Things. I love poking around and have many from small business yarn creators on my wish list. Right now it’s not getting much better than Vesper sock yarn though. YUM.
Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
Just 5 DPNs for me and I’m set. That other stuff is too fancy for me.
Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
Flap, but only because it’s what I know right now.
How many pairs have you made?
25? I’m not sure. At least 25. Yeah. Something like that.
Mine are here. I’ve been having a great time reading everyone else’s answers, too. This is so much fun!
As a long time knitter who only recently conquered socks I am now totally addicted to making socks! Read about my “sock knitting journey” on my blog.
Thanks for Socktoberfest! I’ve answered your your questions on my blog. I didn’t realize how many pairs of socks I’ve made since I started knitting them!
These are great! I love reading about all the shared experiences. I took a crack at the questions myself and posted my first Socktoberfest FO on my blog:
http://stitchwitch.wordpress.com
I’m a little late to the party, but I answered on my blog, here.
I’ve really enjoyed reading so many people’s histories!
When did you start making socks? What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time?
I started about ten years ago…self taught. I knit my first pair in a hospital waiting room, during a very lengthy surgery my husband was having. It was toe-up, following Wendy’s Generic Toe Up sock pattern and I was so thrilled that it was going well that I forgot to STOP increasing at the toe and ended up with mushroom shaped socks – LOL! It was some Regia self-striping yarn, and they held up well but (also because of my excitement and eagerness to finish) I didn’t make the foot long enough and they never really fit well. So that answers what I would have done differently
What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
Like millions of others around the sock world, I love STR yarn (my daughter got me hooked) I only recently tried Opal and like that, too. A few years ago I bought some Froehlick Wolle Special Blauband and do you know, I think that is highly undervalued sock yarn! Sock and wears like iron. Lots of friends who do amazing hand painted yarns. AND I spin my own, from my own sheeps wool…that is my favorite!
Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
Don’t like crochet. Recently learned the Magic Loop method and it has its place in my life, but bamboo DPN’s are still by far my favorite.
Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
Depends on what I am planning to use the sock for. I like the fit of short row, but in my boot socks, I like the flap.
How many pairs have you made?
Long ago lost count, but I can tell you there are three pairs on the needles right now, and I finished two other pairs over the weekend
More about my sock knitting and spinning can be seen at my blog: http://serenity-farms.blogspot.com
Great questions! My answers are at http://mayoiknits.blogspot.com.
I answered the questions on my blog…
I’m finally getting around to posting. No blog of my own, but will try to check in here as much as possible. I will be knitting my first pair of socks…notice the “will be” I have my yarn, cast on twice, and ripped out when I realized it was too tight. This time I will cast on in size 4 for size 1 needles and see if that will work. …I don’t see any special cast-on instructions in the myriad of patterns I’ve checked. Have been using the twisted german cast-on, is there a better one to try? I’m trying to make the bayerische sock from eunny knits blog. Wish me luck! Terrie
Okay. I just answered these on my blog:
http://www.pappergank.com/blacksheep/2006/10/05/socktoberfest/
I finally answered on my blog, too!
http://trickswithsticks.typepad.com/tricks_with_sticks/
I got back into knitting earlier this year after many years’ break. At about the same time my mother complained that she could no longer get interesting socks to fit her increasingly large feet, so I thought I’d try socks and if I enjoyed it I’d knit her some.
My first pair were Jaywalkers (talk about jumping in at the deep end!) on a set of four needles, not the five recommended, which meant that I was forever shuggling stitches from one needle to another to allow for the increases and decreases in the pattern (you have to have been there, really!). Despite this I enjoyed the experience.
In March I knitted a more ordinary pair from the Opal free pattern for my mother and sent them to her. She went into rhapsodies and requested a “drawerful”. I decided this must be ten pairs and am just completing the tenth pair now (suffering a little from twentieth sock syndrome ;^>. They are all different, some with variegated yarns (Opal mostly), some hand-dyed, some plain yarn and fancy stitch. I didn’t take photos because as soon as a pair was finished I just posted them straight to my delighted mother.
As this sockathon comes to a close I thought I’d join Soctoberfest to celebrate. I’ve decided to knit socks for almost everyone else for Christmas, too …
Hi Everyone! I have been knitting socks for about 10 years. I taught myself as I have done with all things in knitting. My favorite sock book is Folk Socks by Nancy Bush. That is what I used to learn and I still refer to her excellent recipe for making a sock. Her other designs are always favorites as well. I learned with good ol’ cuff down socks with a heel flap and round heel. I can knit then without thinking, without a pattern, without worry-I just pick up the yarn, get a feel for the gauge and cast on. I also like DPN’s though I’ve become proficient in all the other methods so I can teach them. It is wonderful that there are so many option and I encourage all knitters to try all the methods. One will click for you. I have made two socks on two circs at the same time, and that was satisfying, but arduous. I actually prefer just the simple pleasure of a familiar cuff-down. That said, I have extensively explored the toe-up methods and have become familiar enough with that architecture that I am starting to like it equally as well as cuff-down. I have used the short-row toe and heel but really enjoyed the Widdershins pattern in the latest Knitty. http://www.knitty.com It is a toe up sock that uses a reverse flap-style heel. It fits really well. So, check out my blog at http://www.knittinginspiration.blogspot.com to see how many of my orphaned socks I can get mated by the end of the month!
I’ve answered on my blog. Fun questions! Enjoyed the trip down memory lane…
When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?
My grandmother tought me to knit when I was about 6 or 7. I guess I was about 10 when I tried to knit my first pair of socks. It was a disaster, full of holes *ha, ha*
What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time?
My very first pair did not held up at all… But the first pair I knitted after I understood how to knit socks did last for a while.
What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
I love both Regia and Opal yarns. In Norway we also have “Raggegarn”, it’s not so much fun knitting from….
Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
I haven’t tried crochet socks yet. It was one of my goals in Summer of Socks but I didn’t get to that. But I’m definitely going to try it! I knit all my socks on dpns. The latest I tried was to knit toe up socks. I’ll try that again soon!
Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
I’m easy to please… I do what’s said in the pattern *he, he*
How many pairs have you made?
Many, many!!! So far this year I’ve knitted 23 pairs. At the moment I’ve got two pairs on my needles and I’m going to knit “a few” pairs for Christmas presents.
Hooray! Blog fodder!
Ahh, I have something to post about now! I will be answering on my blog soon!
Thanks!!
I posted the answers on my blog.
I’m awfully late to this party, but wanted to let you know I answered the questions here.
What a great idea to have themed weeks
I posted the answers to the questions on my blog as well.
I posted it on my blog – so Here’s my answers!
This is going to be fun
I have posted my answers on my blog.
Here are my answers at my blog. Please come take a look!
http://yeahiknit.blogspot.com/2006/10/socktoberfest-my-sock-history.html
I posted my answers on my blog as well.
answers on the blog
I’m going to give the full sock saga on my blog, but I think the most important thing is that, just a year ago, I was afraid to knit socks. Now I am addicted! Mama’s, don’t let your girls grow up to be sock knitta’s…
I’ve got a full response posted on my (very new) blog, along with a picture of my very awful first sock. This sock was so bad that I didn’t knit socks again for a very long time. However, then I saw a really great pattern and tried again a couple of months ago. These socks came out great as have every pair I’ve knit since. If I can keep going after the first (very bad) sock that I knit and make good ones next anyone can.
I posted my responses on my blog:
http://theravelledsleave.blogspot.com/2006/10/socktoberfest-2006.html
Loved the questions. I posted answers on my blog.
Here’s mine!
I’ve posted answers plus finished a pair of socks!
I posted my responses on my blog…
http://librarian-in-training.blogspot.com
Hi everyone! I posted my answers on my blog. Can’t wait to cruise through everyone else’s responses and see what you’re up to!
I just finally got around to posting my answers for this
I wanted to say thanks for sponsoring Socktoberfest again this year – it’s inspired me to finish all my ‘second socks’ to the ones I’ve knit!
What fun! Everyone’s answers are great.
I’ve posted my answers to my blog.
This is so much fun! I’ve also posted my answers to my blog.
Finally posted my answers! I was surprised I’d knit 17 pairs! Its the first time I’ve totalled them up.
I’m a sock newbie.
I’ve posted my answers on my blog too.
Thanks so much for hosting Socktoberfest! I’m having so much fun reading everyone’s comments, histories, etc. I have posted my history answers on my blog, http://knottykittyknits.blogspot.com. I am new to sock-knitting, so my history doesn’t go back too far! LOL! I’m also new to blogging, so please leave a comment and say hello if you stop by!
Yay, I’ve just started my first pair and I’m so excited I could spit.
Answers are on my blog
I just answered on my blog. Happy Socktoberfest, everyone! Thanks to Lolly for putting this together!
Another sock knitter newbie here! Check out my answers on my new blog!
I answered on my blog http://www.whatsthatgonnabe.blogspot.com
Thanks to a blog vote, I guess I’ll be knitting this month to make the mates to the nine (!) single socks I currently have.
Yes, I have a problem.
Just completed and posted on my blog. Thanks for organizing this!
I started knitting socks earlier this year. I used to knit a lot about ten years ago, but had given up the hobby. Then my friend Bridget took up knitting, and every time I saw her she was knitting socks, and I thought what the hell, I’ll give ‘em a whirl. And now I love to knit socks, toe-up on two Addi circs, natch. I’ve knit a couple of lacy socks; latest pair OTN are “plain vanilla” because the wool is too pretty to mess with. The first pair I knit (Falling Leaves in Koigu) were just a tad too big for me, so it was only fitting (ha!) that I should give them to Bridget, since it’s her fault I knit them in the first place.
I love Monarch Super Sock and Koigu PPPM. I have some Cherry Tree Hill and Lorna’s Laces on stand-by.
I finally had a chance to answer your questions – they’re on my blog
)
Thanks for all the great sock stories — Here’s mine.
[...] I posed some sock knitting history questions to you this week, and I finally got around to answering them for myself! Thank you for posting your answers here and on your various blogs – I have really enjoyed reading the answers and learning more about you, your knitting style, and your techniques. It is quite fascinating! [...]
There sure are tons of people signed up for Socktoberfest! At the local yarn shop, they call me the “sock lady”. Happy to hear that there are so many people knitting socks!
Fun to read what has been posted. I’ve posted answers on my blog. .
I finally posted my answers to my blog. I have enjoyed reading others’ sock histories.
i’ve answered on my blog as well…and enjoyed myself (but w/o sock knitting) at the world beer fest in durham nc yesterday!
My answers are in my blog. You’re welcome to stop by
http://nogenlunde.squarespace.com/journal/2006/10/8/socktoberfest.html
I will get my answers posted to my blog tonight. However, any ideas about the best heel for someone with a very wide heel at the base and a VERY NARROW heel at the top. Heel flaps are always gaping at the top of my heel and snug at the base. Short row heels seem very low, but at least never gape at the top.
I’ve also answered on my blog.
Back to my sweet socks.
Thanks for hosting this great KAL.
* When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?
Taught myself
* What was your first pair?
Knitting Pure and Simple worsted weight sock.
How have they “held up” over time?
Great
* What would you have done differently?
These were too bulky so I joined Jeanne Townsends’s sock group at yahoo groups and knit up a pair of her Maple leaf socks with Mountian Color’s Barefoot sock yarn. ‘
* What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
Lorna’s Laces Shepard Sport or Worsted is fantastic
* Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
DPN
* Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
Hummmm… Short row
* How many pairs have you made?
so far — 4 pairs
I’m having fun reading everybody’s sock histories! I finally got mine posted if you’d like to come by my blog.
Posted my rather short history on my blog, look forward to meeting some more sock knitters and getting some tips from some more experienced hands!
Hi everybody! I am in the process of answering the questions while I work (not having internet at home makes blogging life complicated). You will be able to check soon in http://bagfullofyarn.blogspot.com
Also, I have a question although it’s not week 1 anymore: does anyone know the sizes or has a pattern for baby socks, from 0 to 12 months? Thanks a lot!
I’m a little behind, but I’m answering on my blog today. (Right after I finish reading everyone else’s!
)
Started to answer the sock questions, but it took me a week to actually finish the post! Thanks for all the inspiration!
i’m going to post my answers soon it’s the 9th of oct so tonight!!! thanks for all the fun!
i just started my first socks a week ago, so i think i am not really qualified to answer all these questions yet–ask me next october… i HAVE already bought more sock yarn, however–that has to count for something!
A few days late, but I’ve finally gotten around to participating – the answers are at my blog — with pictures!
[...] And here are my answers to the sock history questions: [...]
Hey, better late than never, right? I love reading people’s answers to these questions. Mine will be up on http://www.knitsix.blogspot.com by the end of the day…I’ve also posted photos of my recent socks
Happy Knitting,
Hannah Six
I answered on my blog, at tribe.net. Unfortunately, no pix yet!
I posted my answers here: http://www.skumring.dk/index.php?id=47
Good questions
I’m excited about Socktoberfest! Apfelbier (Virgen) und Socken! My answers to The Questions are at http://chaosvortex.blogspot.com/2006/10/spinning-such.html
Fun!
http://fpea.blogspot.com/2006/10/tuesday-sock-o-rama-sock-history-and.html
When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?
I taught myself using the book Sensation Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch, and I didn’t find it too difficult to follow.
What was your first pair?
My first pair was this Koigu pair.
How have they “held up” over time?
Well, since I live in NC, I have only been able to wear them once. So far so good.
What would you have done differently?
I can’t say that I would have done anything differently.
What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
So far, I have used Koigu, Sweet Georgia Yarn, and Vesper. I would have to say that the Sweet Georgia yarn is my favorite so far. The Koigu is growing on me a bit.
Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
I started off with 5 DPN’s, and I like them. I may try 2 circulars or the Magic Loop for the heck of it, but I think I am happy with the DPNs.
Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
So far I have only made heels with flaps. Might have to try the short-row heel.
How many pairs have you made?
I have made one pair, and I have two that are currently missing mates. I plan on finishing these pairs in honor of Soctoberfest.
I was anxiously waiting for Socktoberfest to begin, yet I am ever so late with this post!!
Answers to the sock survey along with pics of my latest sock FO can be found on my blog:
http://k2blogs.blogspot.com/
More sock goodness to come!!
Thanks Lolly for this great venue!!!!!!!!!
You can find my answers on my blog. http://puikoissa.vuodatus.net/blog/271695
When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?
I just started two days ago. I have help from a book I received, called Knit Socks! by Betsy Lee McCarthy. Websites and online tutorials helped me keep my sanity.
What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time?
Well I’m knitting a starter stockinette pair and I hope it holds up over time.
What would you have done differently?
Oh yes, smarty pants me, decided to use some excess cheap acrylic I have to start off with (so that I don’t ruin the one beautiful colorway that I have. And sock yarn is NOT available in Malaysia :’( so I have to use with care and neither do I have a credit card to order online :’( oh sigh, this is depressing) and well since the yarn is thicker than sock yarn, I casted on and knit away happily with dpns flying all OVER the place to realise its too big (the acrylic is way thicker than the sock yarn but duh, y’all would know that) for my calf. Next time, I’m going to first buy tons of sock yarn (from?) and then try it all out properly.
What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
Uh…no idea just yet.
Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
I’m using DPNs
Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
I think I’m doing the flap one now…I think
How many pairs have you made?
Barely one sock, 65% of one sock actually. But I’m enjoying every minute of it!
Hi Lolly
Finally got around to answering your questions!
My answers are here: http://ozknitter.blogspot.com/
Thanks for hosting Socktoberfest!
[...] A Socktoberfest questionnaire: [...]
[...] I will have lots of vacation news (Maddie called it “suncation”) in my next post or two, but for today I am going the simple route and entertaining you with Lolly’s Socktoberfest questions: [...]
Responses are on my blog
- Ariannah of http://ec.lecti.ca
[...] So, to start my Socktoberfest posts here is a short questionnaire posted by Lolly – [...]
[...] The sock questions has been rumbling around in my head since Lolly of Socktoberfest asked them on her blog [...]
When did you start making socks?
In 1995; they were disastrous. I was sock-free until the urge hit me again this fall.
Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?
Though my older sister was an amazing knitter, she was not a patient teacher, so I learned from a class at a local yarn store and via books, TV shows and the internet.
What was your first pair? How have they “held up” over time?
I was given some hideous brownish-grey handspun wool left over from someone else’s project (hey, it was free), so I made a pair of boot socks. Though they fit wonderfully, they were such a disaster in every other way (color, rough, itchy) that I promptly decided sock knitting is not for me. Eleven years went by without so much as a thought to cast on to DPNs. The socks are in perfect condition, having spent the last decade hidden deep within my sock drawer.
What would you have done differently?
Chosen a softer yarn! LOL! And a more appealing color.
What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
Patons SWS (Soy Wool Stripes). It’s very cozy, comes in the most beautiful stripe blends, and one skein makes a cuffed average-size sock. Also, I’m loving the new Cascade Di.Ve Autunno (merino wool). It’s luscious and the colorways are gorgeous. Technically, it’s not sock yarn, but I love it.
Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
Five DPNs. I’m a traditionalist. It suits me and I don’t feel like I’m wrestling a tarantula or being a puppeteer. I do crochet also, and might try that method one day. I am unfamiliar with the Magic Loop.
Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
Heel flap? I think?
How many pairs have you made?
Three pair finished. One on the needles. About 15 in the wings.
[...] Well, tough luck! You’re getting it anyway! Here’s the Socktoberfest questionaire: [...]
[...] so I’m a little late. But Lolly was interested in our sock knitting history for Socktoberfest, and I thought I’d put up my answers. I don’t have much of a sock [...]
[...] This is in response to LollyGirl’s Socktoberfest quiz: [...]