knitting socks

That's right, my dear readers, I am knitting socks. I know I said I never would, but never is a really long time.

Those of you who know me, know I have completed one complete pair. The first sock was knit in the traditional way, from the cuff down. I did NOT use double pointed needles. (hereafter referred to as "The Devil's Toothpicks") Why would I? I know how to Magic Loop! It was knit with the traditional heel flap and gusset, and the toe meticulously kitchenered. The second sock was knit in the same fashion, with the exception of the heel. I decided to try a garter stitch - short row heel. This left large gaping holes, and about halfway to the toe I crammed the whole mess in a bag and buried it deep beneath my stash and UFOs.

After about a year and a half, I dug it out, ripped back the heel, re knit the damned thing, kitchenered it, and I was done. I used Brown Sheep Superwash Worsted. Did I mention I don't like knitting with really tiny needles? I have big hands, and big feet, and I like to use the bigger needles. Anyway, the yarn has no nylon in it, and I've been told that the heels will wear out more quickly. There really is no chance of that ever happening, as the stuff is so itchy, I can't stand to wear them for more than a few minutes. At this point, I was done with socks.

Over the past year or so, I see everyone knitting socks! Dyeing their own sock yarn. Designing their own patterns! We're extremely lucky to have one of the most incredible yarn dyers right here in Atlanta, and she sells her yarn at Knitch. Her sock yarn is to dye for! (tee hee) She even named one of her colorways after me. I'm sure you all remember Famous Chocolate Fondue. Then Knitch gets Blue Moon Fibers Socks That Rock! (medium and heavy weight) Have you seen this stuff?! BEAUTIFUL! I wanted it ALL, but restrained myself, and bought only two skeins.

I knew I wanted my next pair to be knit from the toe up. My first pair, I barely had enough yarn to kitchener the toe, and really don't want to run out when I've almost finished. Haley showed me two different toe-up cast ons, which I promptly forgot as soon as I got home. (Hey Haley, I'm old, gimme a break!) I decided to check out You Tube, and discovered Cat Bordhi demonstrating Judy Becker's Magic Cast-on. This is a most miraculous thing. How someone comes up with something like this, I'll never know. So now I'm knitting socks, and loving it! (photos to follow) I haven't gotten to the heel yet. Does anyone know if Judy has a Magic Short-row Heel?