Hi, I used to knit a lot until 17 years ago when I had my first son. Used to knit lots of aran and fairisle and then when I was pregnant lots of baby clothes.

Since he was born I've found hadn't had time to knit. Recently started knitting a Patons Whisper scarf and found it very relaxing so want to start another project once the scarf is done.

Hubby fancies some hand knitted socks and wondered if anyone can recommend a sock pattern for someone who has a) never knitted a sock b) not used circular knitting needles for 17 years or more.

Look forward to your replies

Hello Pednbrose. Welcome to the knitting group :) .

I would suggest that for your first pair of socks you use a pattern which is just a simple stocking stitch. The one I used was the free sock pattern you get when you buy Regia sock wool (http://www.mcadirect.com/shop/index.php/cPath/21_53?osCsid=8be93ffe4215ed0ba98c5a8f647496d7). I used the 6 ply self-striping sock wool for my first pair, because as it's a little thicker than the standard 4ply sockwool, I found it easier to handle.

Could I also suggest that you have a look at my beginner's guide to knitting on DPNs here (http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=99738)? I've tried to put together a step by step guide to knitting socks on DPNs, incorporating all the little tips I picked up while I was learning to use them. I've yet to post the rest of the installments, but you might find it useful :) .

I noticed you siad that you've knit fairisle before. I've never attempted it; the carrying over of the different yarn colours at the back of the work looks so complicated. I'd love to have a go though, just to see if I've got the dexterity.

Thanks Hecate, just read your DPN's thread and going to print it off to read it in detail. Will let you know how I get on. Sounds like a big challenge after my 40 stitches on 4mm needles and just knitting 3 balls of wool.

I used to love knitting fairisle, but its complicated, you can't just knit and watch TV at the same time as I do with this scarf. And you have to watch the tension as you can distort it if you pull the yarn over too tightly.

Thanks for your welcome the Knitting Group and your prompt reply.

Hi, Pednbrose,
I'm relatively new to knitting and this forum but my first pair of socks were(was) a Regia pattern. They turned out ok, but having made them decided to have another go with Opal wool. I found this pattern a bit easier because you use markers to let you know when to decrease for the gusset shaping. It really would be a case of taste and try. Good luck with the socks but be warned they are addictive!!:D

Hi
I bought a kit containing self patterning wool (Socka in my case) the dpns, a tapestry needle, a pattern and stitch markers from Web of Wool (although there are plenty of other places that do sock starter kits). I found it relatively easy to follow the WOW pattern. I think most of the sock yarns come with a free pattern if you get the yarn from the right seller (see some of the links in the helpful link section for some sellers):D Most of the free patterns seem quite simple - I think - says she who has only made one pair:suspect:

Anyway sock making seems very addictive - Ive got the yarn for my second pair al ready to go:D Never thought I would want to make socks when they are so cheap to buy, but the challenge was brilliant:D

Good luck
LisaH xxx

Thanks, I will let you all know how I get on. Got to finish my scarf first. Will starting hunting for the kit. :thumbsup:

xx

Thanks, I will let you all know how I get on. Got to finish my scarf first. Will starting hunting for the kit. :thumbsup:

xx
I look forward to seeing your updates. We expect photos too, you know... :D .

Just read your thread on how to post photos. Will give it a go when I get started on the socks. Just wish I spent less time off the forum then I could be knitting!!