The pattern used in these sock tutorials is the 'Let the Yarn Shine' socks.
Let the Yarn Shine is a basic adult sock pattern, ideal for the beginner sock knitter. Working with double pointed needles and starting at the cuff this pattern will guide you through each stage of sock knitting step-by-step with photo tutorials. The pattern has 3 sizes, although these are easily customisable and details are given on how to adjust for a perfect fitting sock.As the pattern name suggests - these socks are ideal for showcasing a colourful skein of fingering weight / 4 ply yarn!
For step-by-step tutorials on how to knit a pair of socks from start to finish, you can find a free sock knitting course for beginners for the 'Let the Yarn Shine' Socks. The course guides you through each stage of sock knitting from casting on to casting off.
Dividing Stitches over 3 Double Pointed Needles
This video is a tutorial on how to divide stitches over 3 double pointed needles, ready to start knitting in the round.
1. Cast on the required amount of stitches onto 1 double pointed needle (dpn)
2. Using a 2nd dpn, transfer a 3rd of these stitches onto the new needle purlwise
3. Take another dpn and transfer another 3rd of the stitches purlwise
You now have 3 dpn's with the stitches divided as equally as possible, ready to start knitting in the round
How to work a Slip Stitch Sock Heel
This tutorial shows how to work a slip stitch heel when knitting a sock on double pointed needles.
For the slip stitch heel flap you will not be working in the round, but back and forth with the stitches you have just separated onto 1 needle. This section is worked in a slip stitch pattern which strengthens the fabric of the heel section.
wyib = with yarn in back / wyif = with yarn in front
Begin with the right side (RS) facing:
Row 1 (RS): [Sl1 wyib, k1] repeat to the end of the row.
Row 2 (WS): [Sl1 wyif, p1] repeat to the end of the row.
Repeat these 2 rows to the number specified in the pattern. You will end up with a run of slipped stitches down each side of the heel flap.
Picking Up Heel Gusset Stitches
After turning the sock heel you will need to pick up and knit the heel flap stitches in order to return to knitting in the round for the foot of the sock.
You will begin by picking up the slipped stitches that run along the heel flap (a tutorial for how to work the slip stitch heel is available below
1. Using the same needle that holds the heel flap stitches, insert this under the 2 strands of the 1st slipped stitch. Wrap the yarn around the needle and pull a knit stitch though.
2. Repeat this step for each of the slipped stitches running along the edge of the heel flap.
3. After picking up and knitting the last slip stitch, pick up and knit 1 more stitch at the end. This will avoid a hole being left at the base of the gusset.
4. Take a 2nd needle and pulling the yarn tight to avoid any gaps, knit all of the previously held stitches onto 1 needle.
5.Take a 3rd needle and pick up and knit 1 stitch before the row of slipped stitches start, pulling the yarn tight between the needles to avoid any holes.
6. Insert the needle under the 2 strands of the 1st slipped stitch. Wrap the yarn around the needle and pull a knit stitch though.
7. Repeat this step for each of the slipped stitches running along the edge of the heel flap.3. Using the same needle, knit the required number of stitches as specified in your pattern from needle 1 onto needle 3
8.You will now have your stitches divided over 3 needles ready to start knitting in the round again.
Kitchener Stitch
The kitchener stitch is a sewn bind off used to graft the 2 sets of live stitches of the toes together.
To work this bind off you will need to have an equal number of stitches on 2 needles. Before you begin, cut the yarn and thread it through a tapestry needle, leaving a long enough tail to complete the bind off.
Hold both needles together and ensure that the working yarn is on the back needle.
Set Up
Insert the tapestry needle through the first stitch on the front needle, as if to purl and pull the yarn through. Do not drop the stitch from the needle.
Next, insert the tapestry needle through the first stitch on the back needle as if to knit and pull the yarn through. Do not drop the stitch from the needle.
Step 1: Front Needle - KNIT the first stitch and drop off the needle. PURL the next stitch but do not drop.
Step 2: Back Needle - PURL the first stitch and drop off the needle. KNIT the next stitch but do not drop.
Repeat these 2 steps until you have 1 stitch left on each needle.
Front needle: KNIT and drop, PURL and leave
Back needle: PURL and drop, KNIT and leave
When you get to the last stitch on each needle:
Front needle: KNIT and drop
Back Needle: PURL and drop
With one hand in the sock, poke the needle through the top of the sock and draw the yarn through ready for weaving in.
Need a handy way to remember the Kitchener Stitch?
This practical tool is a must for any sock knitter. Never forget how to work Kitchener Stitch again!
Made from sturdy plywood this kitchener stitch reminder is a really handy tool to have in your project bag, you can clip it to the zip or just keep it handy in your notions pouch.