October 04, 2006

To start Socktoberfest...

A meme!

When did you start making socks?
It was about a year after I started to knit, so mid 2005. I taught myself to knit and to make socks. I don’t remember exactly what pattern I followed but it must have been Wendy’s, because it was a kind of recipe pattern.

What was your first pair? How have they held up over time?
It was a Toe-up sock with pink heels and toes and purple body. It was done with DB Baby Cashmerino on Susan Bates US3 DPN. I’m pretty sure I used different cast-ons on each sock and one is larger than the other. BC is not a yarn for endurance but they held up all right, then again I just wear them with very big shoes on the winter.

What would you have done differently?
Make notes. Write down how many stitches I cast on, how many increases I made, how many short rows I used on the heel, etc. That way I may have socks that look and feel the same.

What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
My favorite sock yarn is Blue Moon Fibers Socks That Rock, but I’m also in love with Koigu and Cherry Tree Hill. I have some Sundara and Lorna’s Laces yarn stashed that I’m dying to try.

Do you like to crochet your socks? Or knit them on dpns, 2 circulars, or magic loop?
I don’t know how to crochet (the frog was pure luck) and I don’t think I would like crocheted socks anyway because the fabric is less stretchy. I tried the Magic Loop method but I hate it with the fire of a thousand suns, so I don’t think I would like the 2 circulars either. I love knitting in DPN, 4 is ok, 5 I perfect. I like them to be metal too so my choice is Susan Bates Aluminum DPN. I own Crystal Palace Bamboo DPN but I don’t like the grip they have on the small stitches.

Which kind of heel do you prefer?
I love making heel flaps. I have been on the search for the perfect heel trying different heels form Sensei Nancy Bush and so far I love best the Slipped Stitch Heel. I don’t like short rows much, but I use it when making toe ups.

How many pairs have you made?
Very few, 5 pairs and 2 on the needles. It would be good to finish them before socktober fest ends.