Having Trouble Knitting Socks? Try These Knitting Instructions and Tips
Knitting instructions and tips to help you learn the art of sock knitting
When you first begin knitting socks, a little help can go a long way. That's where these knitting instructions and tips come in. Use these tips to help you get off to a good start. Before you know it, you'll be a sock-knitting expert.
Pick your favorite method
There are different methods to knitting the perfect sock. Use double-pointed needles, or one or two circular needles. If you are just learning how to knit socks, I recommend you try a pattern using each of these different techniques. This way, you know what you get the best results with and what type of patterns you like to use.
Start simple
A good pattern to start your sock knitting career with is a basic stockinette stitch pattern. If you knit in the round and use the stockinette stitch, you can concentrate on how to knit instead of figuring out a complicated pattern.
There are many sock knitting instructions and patterns out there, but keep it simple at first. You can dive into all the interesting and pretty patterns later when you get the hang of knitting socks.
Add some spice
To give your socks a little extra oomph, try knitting the toe and heel in contrasting colors. You'll never have boring socks.
Sock construction
Start from the toe, work your way up, and make both socks at the same time to make sure you don't run out of yarn.
Follow the pattern
Patterns for knitting socks can sound kind of crazy, especially if you've never knitted socks before. While you knit, you're bound to think the pattern can't possibly be right. But...it is. Have faith and follow the pattern and your socks will turn out just fine.
Getting your socks to fit
The fit of your socks is determined by the number of stitches you use at the toe of the sock. If your sock is too loose, you need to use fewer number of stitches. If it's too tight, use less.
Your sock pattern will tell you how many stitches to use. Begin with this number. When your sock is to the point where you can try it on, see how it fits. If you sock is a really bad fit, you may need to start over, but don't worry. Socks aren't that time consuming.
So, the good news is it won't take you long to knit your sock again. Just make the adjustments in the number of stitches and you'll end up with a sock that fits great.
Knitting stretchy socks
If you like a sock that has more stretch to it, try knitting a sock pattern that uses cables and ribs. You'll have a sock that is less stretchy if you knit a slipstitch, mosaic, or Fair-Isle pattern.
Prevent ladders
Ladders occur when you have a difference in tension when you switch needles. This shows up as a small gap giving the look of ladders. Most of the time, the ladders disappear after you wash the socks the first time. But if you want to avoid them altogether, remember to keep an even tension or start the new needle in front of the old needle.
Knitting socks is a skill. Some knitters love it -- some hate it, but you have to try it yourself before you can decide. Use a basic stockinette sock pattern; follow these knitting instructions and tips to try your hand at this fun craft. You might just find a new love!
