Blocking knitted socks: before and after
Flavour of the month is knitted socks. They are NOWHERE near as terrifying as we’re led to believe, promise.
I’ve had my nose firmly planted in sock knitting books and patterns, along with watching (too) many tutorials. I’ve also tested a few sock yarns, needles and notions (I love this word, almost as much as ‘haberdashery’), and think I’ve found what works best for me.
Once I’ve culled and corraled my notes into a tight list, I’ll share them with you.
For now, I wanted to record two pairs of pom pom socklets I recently finished. They were quick to make, despite the teeny needles, and super fun.
What really took me by surprise was the difference blocking made to the finished socks.
Other than two additional rows to both the cuff and leg, these two pairs of socks are identical.
Visually, the stitches look smoother and more even, and the socks themselves are flat and geometrical.
The drape is something else. The blocked pair feel silken, not just to the hand, but once they’re on the foot. They are simply more luxurious.
Is it worth the additional time and effort to block a pair of socks, if you can’t even see them once you’re wearing them with shoes?
I think it is. The actual time is minimal: it’s the waiting around for the socks to dry that takes a day or two.
And truthfully, I take pleasure in just looking at them.
Amanda
Materials:
Pattern | Purl Soho’s Pom Pom Socklets as the basic structure, modified to magic loop method; own mods to cuff, picking up stitches method, toe
Yarn | Nundle 4-ply sock yarn in Oatmeal and Fern, Stroll 4-ply sock yarn in Wonderland Heather and Buoy
Needles | Lykke Driftwood 80cm 32″ fixed circular knitting needles, size 2.25mm
Notions | Clover Pom-Pom Maker (extra small), stitch markers, snips, yarn sewing needle
