I have never knitted a pair of socks, but they seem like a popular project. However, I was just wondering about the whole “sock yarn” thing. Does it have to be a specific type of yarn, or could you use any type of yarn?
Most sock yarn is superwash wool, so it can be washed by machine. Some brands also contain some nylon or other synthetic for durability. Sock yarn is also usually lightweight - about a fingering weight, but no higher than sportweight.
I made myself a pair of socks to sleep in/wear around the house using a wool/acrylic blend. They are somewhat on the thick side because I just wanted to keep my feet nice and toasty in the winter. I use Sockotta yarn for socks I wear with shoes. It is lightweight, and as mentioned above it is made from superwash wool, with cotton and nylon also.
Hi there! There are patterns for socks in almost every weight of yarn. I’ve knit with chunky yarn, and the socks are terrific for in my boots. Worsted weight is also a bit heavy, but not bad in my clogs. I like dk weight socks for winter here in Canada, but sock yarn is lighter and makes terrific socks. I would suggest using dk for a first pair maybe, or worsted, because they go a bit faster and you can learn the ropes on them. My brother likes big fat socks to wear in his boots at the farm. If you go to knittingpatterncentral, there are tons of sock patterns, some simple and some complicated. Good luck! Socks are not difficult, and are lots of fun, specially when they’re finished! samm
[color=indigo]Here is a list of patterns by yarn weight.
http://www.socknitters.com/sockpatterns/weight.htm
I’d personally suggest Joan’s Socks as a good starter. It’s done with two strands of ww and makes a wonderful pair of house socks.[/color]
