8 Reasons to Knit Socks

If you don't already know how to knit, the idea of knitting socks may seem intimidating. However, learning to knit socks is an excellent reason to learn to knit in the first place. If you are already a knitter and you haven't tried knitting socks, what are you waiting for? Knitting socks is not only the current craze, it is downright addictive. Here are eight reasons to knit socks:

1. Yummy Yarns
Sock yarn has gone delicious. Besides all the available fibers, like cashmere, silk, merino wool, alpaca and more, there's a riotous choice of colors. Sock yarn comes in every shade of the rainbow and in patterns that "self-stripe" as you knit. Artisans hand-dye yarns into beautiful combinations. If you don't like the idea of hand washing your knit socks, try Superwash yarn. It is 75% natural fiber and 25% nylon so that it retains the look of wool but can be machine washed and dried. It wears well, too.

2. Economical
No, you won't save money by knitting socks. Beautiful natural fiber yarns are $10 to $20 per skein and you will use one to two skeins per pair of socks. Contrast that with seven to ten skeins or more for a sweater. Knitting socks lets you indulge in fabulous yarns without breaking the bank.

3. Impressive
A lot of knitters don't try knitting socks because it looks complicated. The needles are small and you do have to "turn the heel" at some point. Honestly, knitting socks is not as hard as it looks. Sock construction can be broken down into parts and there are lots of books and on line tutorials that explain it clearly. You'll get the hang of knitting socks after a couple tries and then you can sit back and impress your friends and family.

4. Portable
Socks are the ultimate portable project. One skein of yarn and a sock in progress on the needles will fit in your tote bag, your purse or even your pocket. You can sit or stand and knit a few rows almost anywhere - on the bus, in the car, waiting at the doctor. You can put the knit sock project away as quickly as you got it out and be on your way.

5. Variety
Once you know how to make a basic sock, you'll never have to repeat yourself. Try out any texture or pattern when knitting socks and never knit the same pair twice. The world is so full of sock yarns now that you'll want to try them all. There are lots of methods for knitting socks as well: double pointed needles, circular needles, toe-up, cuff-down, magic loop, two at a time. Knitting socks can challenge you forever.

6. Luxurious Comfort
Hand knit socks are special. They feel wonderful on your feet and you can custom fit them to yourself or anyone else. Real wool socks are toasty warm while cashmere are luxurious. Where else can you get so much pleasure from such a small item as a hand knit sock?

7. You Can't Have Too Many
Hand knit socks are meant to be worn, which means, sooner or later, they'll wear out. And once you and your family are hooked on them, you'll need to make more. The same can't be said for hats or scarves, so knitting socks can be an endless hobby.

8. Great Gift Item
Hand knit socks are a fabulous gift for all the reasons listed above. They are comfy, gorgeous and impressive. The recipient will know that it took you a while to make them and feel very honored that you knit them their very own pair. Naturally they will think of you whenever they wear their hand knit socks.

So grab your needles and cast on a humble sock. The results are anything but humble - Hand Knit Socks are amazing and wonderful.