The Sock Knitting Bible

Synopsis

The ultimate guide to every aspect of sock knitting for knitters of all abilities. Whether you've never picked up a double pointed needle in your life or you've already started your sock knitting journey, this book will help you on your way. 

The Sock Knitting Bible will break down all the different techniques and show wannabe sock knitters that there is nothing to be scared of. Covering everything from casting on to colourwork and everything in between, knitters won't find a better reference book for all their sock knitting needs. Whether you want to knit toe up, cuff down or even two at a time socks, we've got it covered. Sock knitting is the perfect portable project too - once you know the basics you can dip in and out until they are flying off your needles!

There are a lot of sock pattern books out there but this is more than a pattern book - it covers all the different techniques and methods for sock knitting! There are step-by-step instructions for all the various sock knitting techniques so that instead of sounding like a foreign language making socks becomes your second language. There are also step-by-steps instructions for three basic socks so that you can follow them even if you are an absolute beginner and then start to choose your preferred method for sock making.

Author Lynne Rowe explains what kind of yarns are best suited to different styles of sock and shares her techniques for how to get the best finish. We also look at the different kinds of tools available for making socks so you can experiment with double pointed needles, the magic loop method and small circular needles as well as innovative new products such as flexible dpns until you find your own favourite method.

With this book you can put that beautiful skein of hand dyed yarn you couldn't resist to good use by making the perfect pair of socks because in addition to the extensive techniques there are also 10 projects by some of the most exciting and talented sock designers, illustrating a number of the different knitting methods and styles. Here you will find stripes, fair isle, cables, lacy, sparkly and snuggly socks: a pattern for all your needs. It won't be long before you are delighting your friends and family with your new found skills - just be sure to make yourself a pair too!

But be warned: sock knitting is addictive!

Summary

Chapter 1: What You Need to Know

* Materials: Yarn, needles, and socks are the basic materials you need.
* Yarn Weight and Needle Size: Choosing the right yarn and needle size is crucial for creating socks that fit well.
* Gauge: Measuring gauge helps you determine if your knitting is the correct size.
* Example: A sock made with a yarn weight of worsted weight and a needle size of US 7 should have a gauge of 20 stitches and 30 rows per 4 inches.

Chapter 2: Learning the Basics

* Casting On: There are various methods for casting on, such as the long-tail cast-on.
* Plain Knitting and Purling: These are the two fundamental stitches in sock knitting.
* Increasing: Increasing stitches creates additional stitches, typically at the toe or heel.
* Decreasing: Decreasing stitches reduces the number of stitches, often used to shape the heel or toe.
* Example: A sock may start with 60 stitches cast on, then increase to 72 stitches for the toe, and decrease back to 60 stitches for the heel.

Chapter 3: Toe-Up Socks

* Starting the Toe: Begin by knitting a small square or triangle for the toe.
* Increasing for the Instep: Gradually increase stitches as you move up the foot.
* Working the Leg: Knit in the round until the desired leg length is reached.
* Heel Flap and Gusset: Create a heel flap by knitting back and forth, then form gussets to shape the heel.
* Example: A toe-up sock starts with 20 stitches at the toe and ends with 60 stitches at the leg.

Chapter 4: Top-Down Socks

* Starting with the Cuff: Knit a rib pattern for the cuff, which stretches for a secure fit.
* Decreasing for the Leg: Gradually decrease stitches as you move down the leg.
* Working the Heel: Create a short-row heel to shape the back of the sock.
* Increasing for the Instep: Increase stitches to return to the original stitch count.
* Knitting the Toe: Complete the sock by knitting the toe in a square or triangular shape.
* Example: A top-down sock starts with 60 stitches at the cuff and ends with 60 stitches at the toe.

Chapter 5: Variations

* Afterthought Heels: Attach heels after completing the rest of the sock.
* Mitered Heels: Create diagonal lines shaping the heel.
* Fish Lips Kiss Heel: A unique heel construction that produces decorative toes.
* Lace Socks: Add lace patterns for intricate and delicate designs.
* Example: A pair of lace socks with a fish lips kiss heel and an afterthought heel.