Crochet Sock Construction Methods

Hello! I've been thinking about how my choice of construction method plays a vital role in creating crochet socks that are both comfortable and fit well. This blog post will initially focus on the two principal methods for crocheting socks, toe-up and top-down, and subsequently look at other construction techniques.

Toe-Up Crochet Sock Construction:

• Easy Fitting: The toe-up method allows for frequent fitting, ensuring a perfect fit throughout the sock making process.

• Gradual Shaping: Shaping the foot is more gradual, potentially resulting in a more comfortable fit.

• Early Enjoyment: You can share photos of yourself on social media wearing the toe portion, providing a sense of accomplishment.

Top-Down Crochet Sock Construction:

• Bulkier Toe: Because you’re starting at the leg, you may have too much fabric around the foot, creating more bulk at the toe.

• Difficult Fitting: Fitting the foot can be more challenging towards the end.

• Less Control Over Fit: Less opportunity for adjustments during the process.

Sideways Crochet Sock Construction:

• Unique Approach: This sock is worked in rows back and forth to create a fabric tube. This method allows for interesting stitch patterns and colourwork possibilities, as the design will flow horizontally along the sock. 

• Short Rows: The heel is often created using short rows or a similar technique to shape the curve. Finally, the toe is closed, and any necessary seams are joined.

• Snug Fit: While it might seem unconventional at first, crocheting socks sideways can be a fun and rewarding way to create a really good fitting sock.

After-thought Heel:

• Popular Technique: Used in both top-down and toe-up socks; a gap is left where the heel will go and on completion of the sock, stitches are picked up to crochet the heel. 

• Fun Designs: This kind of heel can be worked in rows or in the round. I’ve seen some fun examples of a spiral heel too!

Choosing the Right Crochet Sock Construction Method For You:

All these sock construction methods have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the best method is the one you enjoy working with most and to figure this out, you’ll need to try a few different construction methods. Over time, you will be able to choose the method that best suits your needs, adapt the pattern where necessary and you’ll be able to create a pair of comfortable and stylish socks.

Ready to level up your crochet sock game? Grab my comprehensive PDF sock guide today and discover even more secrets to creating perfectly fitting and beautifully crocheted socks!

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

Spring Shortie Socks for Pattern of the Month in April

Hello! I don't know about you, but I'm so happy we're finally into April! I'm on the east coast of Scotland and the weather has really warmed up, the clocks have changed to BST (signifiying lighter evenings) and it's my birthday month, yay!

To celebrate the arrival of Spring, I've chosen my Lazy Days Shortie Socks for my 10% off April promotion. Get ready to kick back and relax in style with these playful and practical socks. Designed for ultimate comfort, they're perfect for lounging around the house or adding a touch of whimsy to your everyday outfits. Say goodbye to cold toes and hello to happy feet!

These socks crochet up quickly with DK weight yarn and feature a classic heel turn, making them a satisfying project for intermediate crocheters.

Here’s what you’ll love about the Lazy Days Shortie Socks pattern:

Toe-up design with traditional heel flap & gusset: For a perfect fit and classic sock construction.

Easy-to-follow pattern: With detailed instructions and helpful video tutorials to guide you every step of the way.

Multiple sizes available: Adult Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large, ensuring a perfect fit for everyone.

Crocheted with DK weight yarn: For those who read my last blog post and thought "Meh! 4ply yarn takes a-g-e-s to work up", you'll love this as a quick project!
Written in UK terminology.

Dual terms: Digital version written in both UK & US terminology. Printed version is in UK terms only.

NEW!:

There is now a printed version of the pattern available! It's folded A4 size and has been professionally printed on quality paper. UK delivery only for this item (sorry, international shipping is a pain at the moment). It will be posted in a sturdy envelope.

To crochet your own pair of shortie socks, you'll need:

• 100g skein of superwash DK (75% superwash merino/ 25% nylon, 225m/ 100g), I used yarn from The Wool Shed.

• 4.5mm crochet hook

• Needle for sewing in ends

• 3 (cute) stitch markers

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to add a touch of handmade warmth to your wardrobe! Your special 10% discount is only available for the month of April and is valid on digital copies and printed copies. Use the code APR24 on my website and on Ravelry.

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

Solid colours, variegated yarn or self striping yarn for socks … help!

Hello! In today's blog post I'm going to help you navigate the exciting world of colour choices for crocheting socks. I’ll go through various sock yarn options, from simple solids to more interesting self-striping yarns and teach you how to manipulate colour to create stunning and unique sock designs. 

1. Solid Colours: A Timeless Classic

• Simplicity: Solid colours offer a clean look

• Versatility: Easy to match with any outfit.

• Highlighting Texture: Allows the stitch definition to shine.

My Lyre Socks and Synthesiser Socks (pictured above) will both work best in a solid colour. This is because they have a textured pattern and if you introduce a mix of colours to the sock the texture will be lost. Solid colours are also best for more open or lacy designs, such as my Off-the-Beat Socks.

2. Subtle Variations: Variegated Yarns

• Speckles: Adds visual appeal and personality. A little colour introduces a playful touch to socks!

• Motivation: It keeps things interesting as you crochet; it’s fun to watch the tiny splashes of colour become incorporated in your sock.

One thing I like about crocheting socks is that a 100g skein of indie dyed yarn will give you 1 pair of socks, they’re a brilliant way to try out differnt yarns. My Lazy Days Socks and Fiddle Socks were both designed specifically for variegated yarn.

Click here for your copy

3. Contrast Details: A Pop of Colour

• Add Interest: Introduce contrasting colours for the toes, heels, and cuffs.

• Customisation: Mix and match colours to create unique combinations.

If you want to input colour in a sock pattern one of the easiest ways to do so is to use contrasting colours for the different parts. Even if the pattern you’re following doesn’t specify the use of contrast colours, this is very simple to do and will really change the look of your sock. It’s a brilliant way to stash bust too!

4. Self-Striping Magic

• Effortless Colour Changes: Enjoy the magic of self-striping yarns without the hassle of constant colour changes and ends to weave.

• Endless Possibilities: Explore the vast array of colour combinations out there with self-striping sock yarns. If you’re not confident in choosing colours, this takes the guesswork away for you.

The first sock pattern I ever wrote was for self striping yarn; my Fabulous Socks! This pattern continues to be my best seller, I’m sure it’s down to the striking simplicity of the stripes.

5. Advanced Techniques: Colour Manipulation

• Colour Pooling: Explore the fascinating rabbit hole of colour pooling, where colours in a colour changing yarn line up to create unique patterns.

• Strategic Colour Placement: Carefully plan the placement of colours for intentional effect.  I sometimes start sock 1 from the inside of a self-striping ball and sock 2 from the outside of the ball, creating a pair of socks that are sisters, but not twins.

My Fabulous Socks! (pictured below) are an example of working from both ends of a ball of wool. If you look carefully at the socks you can see the colour order is flipped.

Conclusion

Choosing colours for crocheting socks is a journey of creativity and self-expression. The only way to find out which types of yarn you like is to start crocheting socks, experiment with different techniques, embrace unexpected results and don't forget to have fun in the process! 

Your next steps

If you found this post useful you'll be pleased to know that I'm working behind the scenes putting together the Ultimate Guide to Crocheting Socks PDF with everything you need to know plus all my top tips for success! Subscribe to my mailing list to be first to know of the release and receive my biggest discount code.

Also, if you're interested in trying out any of my sock patterns, they're available from my website and Ravelry, go take a look!

Until next time,

Happy crocheting,

Marta xx

Choosing Yarn For Crocheting Socks

Hello! As you know, this week I released a new crochet sock pattern, Dunkeld Slipper Socks and I received a sweet review from Rosemary, who bought my pattern. She said
 
"Thanks for the lovely pattern. I will do a search here for similar yarn. They look so nice for the winter."
 
Now, Rosemary lives in South Africa and for her winter will be on it's way in a few months, so this got me thinking about the advice I would give anyone who was choosing yarn for crocheting (or knitting!) socks.
 
Crocheting socks requires yarn that can withstand the rigours of daily wear while providing exceptional warmth and comfort. The key to sock yarn durability, regardless of the fibre content, lies in the twist; a high twist creates a tightly wound yarn that resists stretching and pilling. This is crucial for socks because they endure constant friction and wear. In appearance, high-twist yarns tend to be smoother, less fuzzy, and have a more compact appearance because the tightly twisted strands lie closer together. I'm going to delve into the characteristics of various yarn types, including pure wools, blends and vegan fibres.

 
Merino
Merino wool is a popular choice for sock yarn, but it typically requires the addition of nylon to increase its durability. This is why you'll typically find sock yarns with a 75/25 Merino/ nylon blend. Merino wool by itself is quite strong, but the addition of the nylon significantly increases its durability, with the nylon providing extra strength and elasticity, helping the yarn resist stretching and pilling. Merino wool often undergoes a superwash treatment to make the yarn machine washable too. 

Blue Faced Leicester 
Blue Faced Leicester (BFL) is renowned for its exceptional warmth. This wool creates such a cosy, insulating layer around your feet and it’s also beautifully soft. While it might not have the legendary strength of Merino, BFL is still a strong fibre, especially when spun with a high twist.

Alpaca 
Alpaca is an excellent choice for those with wool allergies. Coming from alapacas rather than sheep, its structure lacks the lanolin that can cause allergic reactions in some people. Alpaca yarn is also incredibly strong and resilient, making it highly durable for everyday wear and it’s obviously luxurious and soft to wear on your feet. The current pair of socks on my knitting needles are Pierre Socks by Stephen West and I'm using Alpaca SOXX from Lang, it's gorgeous!

Shetland Wool 
Shetland wool is a more unusual choice for crocheting socks, yet its unique properties make it ideal for cold weather wear. The wool is sourced from the Shetland sheep breed, known for its dense, soft, and incredibly warm fleece. Its fine texture creates a beautifully dense and super warm fabric that provides possibly the best insulation of all the wool types. Over the cold spell we had a start of the year, I wore Shetland wool socks and my feet were super toasty! 

Vegan fibres
If you’re looking for something vegan friendly, in line with your own values or the recipient of your socks, there are vegan fibres out there which offer a cruelty-free alternative to wool. Your 3 main choices are cotton, bamboo, and acrylic. Cotton is naturally breathable and soft, but is certainly not as warm as wool. The stitches created in crochet (this doesn’t apply so much to knitting) on the sole of the foot can bunch up with wear and washing, creating a more pronounced, bumpy fabric which may become uncomfortable. Bamboo is known for its softness and moisture-wicking properties, making it a good choice for summer socks especially. Acrylic is a synthetic fibre that is affordable and comes in a wide variety of colours, but it can feel less soft and doesn’t have the breathability of cotton or bamboo. In my opinion, acrylic is best avoided for socks.

Click here to receive your copy!

Blended fibres 
Sock wool is usually a blend of some of the fibres mentioned above, rather than one single fibre type. This enables a yarn to be created with the best possible properties for wear. Here are some of the many firbres introduced to sock yarn:

• Nylon provides incredible durability and helps the socks retain their shape. 

• Cashmere offers luxurious indulgence and warmth. Blends with cashmere feel beautiful to work with and to wear.

• Alpaca​(mentioned above in more detail) is often blended with other wool because it adds a unique softness and warmth. 

• Bamboo provides moisture-wicking properties, keeping feet dry and comfortable. 

• Corriedale brings a soft, springy quality and at the same time enhances the durability of the finished socks.

• Linen is an ideal blend for summer socks because this fibre provides much needed coolness and breathability. Linen enhances air circulation within the fabric, helping to keep feet cool and dry

• Yak adds incredible warmth and a unique, slightly hairy texture, creating luxurious and exceptionally cosy socks. It’s also really lovely to work with!

• Zwartbles​ introduces a toothy look, a bit of bounce and a touch of rustic charm to the finished socks. 

Conclusion
Sock yarn can be a blend of one or more of these options with fibres chosen for their specific properties, such as warmth, durability, softness, stitch definition and moisture-wicking, to create the perfect yarn for comfortable and long-lasting socks. My advice to you is to experiment, try different blends and find out which ones you like to work with and which ones produce the best socks. 
 
I'm in the process of curating all my crochet sock advice together into a pdf guide for you - this information on choosing yarn will be one of the many sections in the pdf. Sign up to my mailing list for more info from me on this new pdf guide in the next few weeks! 

So, what type of yarn would I recommend for my Dunkeld Slipper Socks? Firstly, if you have some in stash or can get hold of some, I would advise that you choose the same yarn yarn which I designed the socks in - New Lanark Spinning Co, Aran weight (10ply), 100% pure new wool.

 
However, there are all sorts of reasons for not using this yarn (location, price, wanting a vegan fibre, allergies), therfore I have a few options for you here.
 
Yarnsub.com is an amazing website where you can search for any yarn and it will come up with the closest matches for you. I'd thorouhly recommend starting there and seeing what pops up.

I designed the socks in pure wool, choosing a pure wool of similar meterage would be another safe choice. Wool blended with Corriedale, Zwartbles or alpaca would all work very well too because they would enhance the texture of the socks and add to the warmth.

If you're looking for a vegan option, cotton or bamboo would both be good choices. Acrylic would also be suitable because this is a house sock rather than a sock to be worn inside shoes, therefore breathability isn't such a big issue.
 
I hope all this yarn info has been helpful for you - if you have any questions, leave me a comment or email me - martamitchelldesigns@gmail.com - and I'll do my very best to help. 

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

PS. If you'd like to find out more about choosing coloured yarn for crocheting socks you need to check out this blog post of mine.

 

 

Crochet Pattern Release with Early Bird Offer!

Are you ready for a new crochet pattern release from me? I hope so, it's been a while!

Inspired by the beauty of nature, my Dunkeld Slipper sock pattern is designed to be crocheted in pure wool for a truly luxurious and tactile experience. Read on for your early bird discount code!

Never crocheted socks before? Don't worry! I've included 6 easy-to-follow video tutorials to guide you every step of the way even if you're a complete beginner at socks.
 
Fun fact: this pattern was first published in The Journal of Scottish Yarns, issue 2 - Autumn/ Winter 2022. 

Here's what you can expect from this crochet pattern:
 

• 4 Sizes: Available in a range of sizes to fit most feet, with easy customization options for the perfect fit.

• Yarn: 10ply/Aran weight, Pure New Wool (approx 160m/100g). I used New Lanark Spinning Co. for my samples.

• Hook: 6mm crochet hook, or required hook to achieve tension.

• Traditional Techniques: A classic heel turn and a folded-down cuff for a snug & comfortable fit.

• Perfect for Cosy Days: These socks are ideal for relaxing after a crisp winter walk or simply enjoying a cosy evening at home.

• Intermediate Level: Suitable for crocheters with some experience.

• Ravelry Support: After purchase, you'll receive a link to easily add the pattern to your Ravelry library.

 
Special Launch Offer:
Enjoy 10% off the pattern price until 23:59 Sunday, January 18th with the code DUNKELD10

You can purchase your copy of my Dunkeld Slipper Socks pattern on my website or via my Ravelry store.

Until next time, I hope you enjoy crocheting these,

Marta xx

Round Up of Socktober Challenges

Socktober is finally here! The month where sock knitters and sock crocheters come together and share their love for sock-making! One of the main goals of Socktober is to encourage people to knit or crochet at least one pair of socks during the month. Another popular tradition is to donate handmade socks to charities or those in need.

If you're looking to add something extra to your crocheting or knitting routine, consider joining one of the many sock challenges that have popped up on Instagram and Facebook. These challenges often have unique themes or requirements, such as knitting a pair of socks in a specific yarn, technique or time frame. Some challenges might focus on charity knitting, where you'll donate your handmade socks to those in need. Others might be more personal, encouraging you to create a pair of socks for a loved one or to try a new skill.

 

Participating in a sock challenge can be a great way to meet new people, share your progress, and stay motivated throughout the month. The yarn community is a welcoming community; by joining online groups & forums you're connecting with fellow creatives and you'll have a sense of belonging and connection. Sharing your work, exchanging tips, and learning from others creates a mutually supportive network which can combat feelings of isolation & loneliness. So, whether you're a seasoned sock maker or just starting out, be sure to check out some of the exciting challenges happening this Socktober ...

 

DB Socktober 2024 Sock A Long: My online friend Mariette in South Africa is hosting this sock challenge on Instagram and YouTube for the 3rd year! She has released a new knitting pattern to coincide with Socktober, but you don't have to use this pattern - knitting and crochet are both welcome! #dbsocktober2024

Fall Into Socks KAL 2024: This challenge runs until the 15th November, giving you a little more time! There are prizes too (I've donated a crochet sock pattern into the mix!). Any socks, any pattern, any yarn weight. Hosted on Instagram by Jennifer @ellyndria.knits with a Discord channel for an extra chance to make new friends! #FallIntoSocksKAL2024

 

Socktober With The Scottish Yarn Festival: A group for sock loving people, all coming together to knit and crochet socks during the month of October. This is a public group on Facebook.

 

EarthtonesGirl 7th Annual Falling Leaves Sock KAL: Denise started this one back in mid September and it runs on Instagram until November 15th with the goal of creating one pair of socks (or more) a month using autumn colour or themed yarn. Any pattern, knit and crochet both welcome, WiPs encouraged #fallingleavessockkal2024

 

Organised October: Whilst not strictly a sock challenge, it could be! This annual event is run by Laura on Instagram. Participants are encouraged to finish WiPs and achieve other creative goals throughout October. There is an Instagram chat group which is already buzzing with encouragement! #organisedoctober24

 

Have you seen a challenge you fancy joining? Most of the hosts are happy for you (indeed encourage you) to double, triple dip etc into multiple challenges, so feel free to add all the appropriate hashtags!

To encourage you to take part, I'm offering 15% off all sock patterns on my website and in my Ravelry Store throughout October! Simply use the code SOCKTOBER at the checkout for the discount to be applied!

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

PS. If you're hosting or participating in a challenge which I haven't mentioned, please let me know and I'll edit it into the post!

Your Ultimate Guide To Crocheting Socks

Hello! Over the last few weeks, with my Lazy Days Shortie Sock CAL on the horizon, I've received quite a few questions from subscribers and followers about crocheting socks. So, with this in mind I've created a round up blog post: a resource you can use if you need any information about crocheting socks. It pulls all my years of knowledge & experience, all my techniques & skills together in one place for you. 

Sock it to Me: Measuring Feet for the Perfect Fit: Let's start at the beginning with how to properly measure feet for socks. I pulled my dad in to help with the video to accompany this blog post! This step is super important to get right if you want to create a sock that fits well and feels comfortable all day long. Read post here.

Demystifying Sock Crochet Terms: No More Head-Scratching!: You have your pattern, but help! What on earth do all these terms mean? Don't worry, this blog post demistifies them all for you, no more struggling to decipher abbreviations or confusing techniques. Read post here.

My Pro Crochet Sock Tips: Here's a blog post with my top 5 tips for crocheting socks, a good one to refer to for some sound advice. These tips will help you avoid common mistakes and make the sock crocheting process a smoother and more enjoyable one. Read post here.

Designing Crochet Socks that Fit: A Resource for Designers: If you are a crochet designer, or a budding crochet designer, I have a blog post dedicated to designing crochet socks that FIT. It has some useful pointers for crocheters too about achieving the fit you want. Read post here.

Choosing Colours and Yarn for Perfect Crochet Socks: My oldest crochet sock blog post is from a blog hop back in 2018 (yes, I've been blogging a LONG time!). The topic is choosing colours for socks and has lots of useful tips in it. Read post here.

5 Must-Try Crochet Sock Patterns: Looking for more crochet sock patterns to try? I have a round up blog post with 5 of the best, all tried and tested by me! My top 5 feature a variety of sock styles and difficulty levels, so there's something for everyone. Read post here.

I really hope this round up is useful for you! If you'd like to receive my weekly wisdom on all things crochet, consider subscribing to my mailing list here.

Until next time, happy crocheting,

Marta xx

Lazy Days CAL Kit Launch!

Hello! I'm so, so pleased with how this year's Lazy Days CAL kits have come together! It has been a real pleasure to collaborate with Sophie at The Wool Shed to bring you a fresh new yarn for 2024. Also, you asked and I listened - this year it's an 8ply/ DK weight yarn instead of 4ply/ fingering weight.

The colourway is called Lazy Days, it's a 75% superwash merino/ 25% nylon base, 225m per 100g and it's exclusive to my kits. 

I reached out to Rachel at Sew Ray Me and I'm delighted to bring you a selection of her cute notions tins in the kits for the first time! I'm sure you're going to love these for popping stitch markers and other wee treasures in.

My lovely Instagram friend Ruth at Labours of Love Crochet is supplying me with summer themed stitch markers - lobster clasp ones - perfect for crochet.

This year I'm bringing you another of my favourite crochet hooks; the Clover Soft Touch. I love the feel of these hooks, particularly in the summer when my hands can be a bit hot and sticky! It's a 4.5mm hook, the recommended size for the pattern.

There will also be a postcard included, designed by Katie at Katie Birdie. It was Katie who drew the beautiful illustration for me which sparked this CAL back in 2021, you can read that story on my blog here.

Another change for 2024 is that I've had the pattern professionally printed as an A4 folded leaflet (these are so much better than me churning out slightly blurry copies on my printer as in previous years!!)

All of these things will come in a drawstring kit bag made from organic, Fairtrade cotton which is printed in the UK with the lovely foxglove & bee illustration by Katie.

 

My CAL kicks off in 2 weeks time, Friday 5th July, with pre-orders opening for kits today! Kits are £50 each but I'm offering you a discount code - 10% off - which makes them just £45.00!

 

The kit includes:

• 100g of exclusive colourway: ' Lazy Days', DK weight yarn (75% superwash merino/ 25% nylon)
• 4.5mm Clover Soft Touch Hook
• stitch markers from Labours of Love Crochet
• notions tin from Sew Ray Me
• postcard from Katie Birdie
• printed A4 pattern leaflet
• pdf of the pattern with video tutorial links
• organic, Fairtrade cotton drawstring bag with the illustration from Katie Birdie on the front, perfect to keep everything in!

 

This year I'm introducing a budget friendly option too: pattern & project bag combo for £9, but with your 10% discount code, that's just £8.10!

Combo includes:

• printed A4 pattern leaflet
• pdf of the pattern
• organic, Fairtrade cotton drawstring bag with the illustration from Katie Birdie on the front

Both kits and combos will be posted at the end of next week.

 

The code for all offers is LAZYDAYS

I've listed the pattern on Ravelry and on my website and of course you can join the CAL using any DK weight yarn - although I'd recommend a superwash merino with nylon for best results. The links below take you to the pattern and the LAZYDAYS code will give you 10% off on both sites.

For my 2024 Lazy Days CAL there will be an Instagram chat group where we can discuss all things sock related, ask questions, share progress photos, cheer each other on; there will be a an opening Zoom meet up (new for this year!), with a prize draw for everyone attending; and there will be various prizes for taking part.

 

Sound good? Join my CAL today for a summer of crochet community fun!

Happy crocheting,

Marta xx