I'm joining in Ginny's Yarn Along this week.
So far, the socks that I've been knitting have been very basic, made-up in my head and transferred to my needles. After all, what does a sock consist of besides a toe, a foot/sole, a heel, and a leg?
During Snow Storm Nemo over the weekend, I wanted a pair of thick slipper socks. As any able knitter would do, I picked up my US6 DPNs, dove for some worsted weight yarn, and casted on. Toe-up is definitely my favorite technique as once the toe is increased and done, I don't have to think about running out of yarn or seaming.
But I also want to expand my sock knitting skills and that's where the heel can teach me a thing or two. I've heard so much about Cat Bordhi's sweet tomato heel that I just had to try it, and oh boy, am I glad I did. I love when knitting feels like magic ... which, for me, is most of the time.
I finished both socks in time to wear them while being snowed in. I'm telling you, one of the beauties of knitting is you can actually want (or even need) something and with a bit of effort, make it yourself! So, what am I reading? I've mentioned before that I'm not a writer but I've always been fascinated by how an artist goes about her craft. I'm reading Object Lessons: The Paris Review which is a collection of short stories previously published in the PR and introduced by other writers describing the art behind the writing. Like knitting, I'm as interested in the process as much as the product.
And now I'm happy to announce the winner of last week's Winning Wednesday giveaway:
Congratulations Ivy (aka pumpkin)!
I'm sad to say that I've been having a little difficulty with my local post offices (don't get me started), so need a little time to think about how else I can sponsor giveaways. I'll be coming up with a new strategy by next Winning Wednesday, I'm sure!
Don't even get me started about the post office. I almost always use the postal machine in the lobby and avoid the rude workers behind the counter. Even going so far as to use Fed Ex 95% of the time (but only because I get a discount).
ReplyDeleteI'm interested to hear about post office difficulties at your end. In NZ, our postal delivery is about to be cut down to only a few times a week (and they'll probably add insult to injury by raising postal charges as well). I wonder if the internet really is such a good thing - it doesn't seem to have generated enough (eg internet shopping) to compensate for the lack of day-to-day postal items and is now strangling our ability to actually get anything physically from a - b. Maybe you have better choices? Our postal service is a monopoly!!
ReplyDeleteOh, I think I now have to knit socks with this heel... It seems like there is no place to make a hole in those! How wonderful! Thanks! :)
ReplyDeleteLove your socks, nice colors and fun stripes! ♥
I just watched that heel video and it seems brilliant. If I ever ;) make socks I will keep this method in mind. I love everything about your cozy snow storm socks! That is so sad about your postal difficulties--my husband is a mailman (a good one!) and these stories always make him cringe. I have to say, I am over the moon thrilled with 5 day delivery--for the first time in 23 years I will have my husband home every Saturday, not just once every 6 weeks-especially as we move into empty nesting soon and wanting to do things on those weekends. The best part is that the important mail, packages, will still be delivered on Saturdays! I had heard that New Zealand is moving to something like 3 day delivery! Now THAT is shocking. I am pretty sure the US is the only country in the world that has 6 day delivery-we are spoiled for sure.
ReplyDeleteHave a great Wednesday--
*smiles*
I have been hearing about this sweet tomato heel, thanks for the link on you tube. That was some storm Nemo, my daughter was caught in it in Boston and New York! We are use to really big spring snow storms here on the front range but holy smokes you guys have been pounded all year long...
ReplyDeleteYour socks look gorgeous! I prefer cuff down socks purely so I can turn the heel, I LOVE turning the heel, its my favourite part. lol
ReplyDeleteI have been hearing lots about this heel too but I haven't tried it yet.
ReplyDeleteThat Paris Review Book sounds awesome. I could stand to learn much about writing. I'll see if I can find it at my local library!!! Also, those socks are just delicious and I think I have just the yarn to make a pair of my own!
ReplyDeleteI've never heard of this heel before, so I'm off to check it out. That's one of the really fun things about the yarn along for a beginner like me: I learn so much! Those look super-cozy -- perfect for keeping tootsies snug during a storm.
ReplyDeleteI'd never seen that heel turn before (I think I'm really out of the loop with all the new-fangled sock recipes!) - that's really neat!
ReplyDeleteYou are sure getting all the rough weather of our states this year, aren't you !!! But those socks, I think you have done well making a productive and cozy situation from your climate hardship. THey say 'when life gives you lemons, make lemonade' .. and that is just what you have been doing. :)
ReplyDeleteThe socks look so warm and cozy. Perfect for being snowed in.
ReplyDeleteI think I'm going to have to try toe-up socks. I've been doing the basic versions and I think I like the sound of this better!
ReplyDeletelove those socks and I've made 2 pair, but never toe up and I don't love my heels. This might just be the ticket
ReplyDeleteGorgeous colours, Louise has gifted me a Ravelry sock pattern, using this technique. I'll be giving it a go, but may ask you for pointers, if I get stuck,lol. X
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