CUFF ABOVE: 23 Knit Designs

Socks are just about perfect for trying out new stitch patterns or techniques. If you long to knit an Aran sweater but have never worked cables, a pair of socks gives you the chance to practice the technique without a huge investment in time or money. See the Annelise Knee Socks. If your heart is set on knitting a lace shawl, but you aren't so sure about the prospect of working yarn overs, try out an eyelet or lace pattern sock like the lace edged baby socks or lacy leg warmers. Slip stitch patterns offer a great introduction to colour work because you never have to carry around more than one yarn in a round, but colour stranded work aka Fair Isle is not as difficult as you may think. Then there is the joy of wearing your own hand-knitted socks or creating them for loved ones, a very special gift. The Elizabeth Socks are an easy pattern to start with and the inserted heel eliminates the need to work shaping in pattern. Chunkier, fluffier, with cuffs and turn ups and turn downs, most have a good deal of stretch, particularly the lace patterns and smaller socks can be produced by knitting at a tighter gauge. For Christmas there is a Nordic Stocking Sock to hang and a Tree Stocking in red, green and white with snowflake and Christmas tree design at the top and a hanging loop. Super detailed instructions throughout, diagrams and full page colour photos of the 16 finished designs. 96 page very large softback, colour.