Sock Knitting Master Class: Knit Along with Ann Budd

Asymmetrical Cables by Cookie A
My gauge swatch

From Ann Budd:

As I worked on Sock Knitting Master Class, I found that I wanted to knit every pair of socks.

Not only are they all good designs, but each one has at least one lesson in technique or design application. I am certain that anyone who knits all of the socks in the book will end up a veritable master (hence, the words "Master Class" in the title). And who better to give it a go than myself?

So, I've decided that I will work my way through the book, knitting each pair of socks (well, maybe with a few exceptions or modifications to suit myself) and hopefully using up some of my stash yarn in the process.

I'll write posts about my experiences as I go so you'll get even more insights into these fabulous designs.

First off is Cookie A's Asymmetrical Cables (page 48), which are shown in Pagewood Farm St Elias (80% Bluefaced Leicester, 20% nylon) knitted at a gauge of 8 stitches/inch in stockinette, worked in rounds.

In her note on yarns (page 53), Clara Parkes says these socks are best knitted with "a yarn that has three or more plies to render the raised cable pattern." She also suggests keeping to a "solid or flickering semi-solid that won't distract from the flow of the cables."

The yarn in my stash that best fits these criteria is Spirit Trails Frija (80% superwash merino, 10% cashmere, 10% nylon; 377 yd/4 oz) in a beautiful combination of blues and teals. I'm certain that I'll appreciate that 10% of cashmere! To begin, as I always begin, I knitted a gauge swatch (above left).

Grab your copy of Sock Knitting Master Class and join me, and let's get knitting!

—Ann

 

Wow!  This sounds like what I've been looking for.  Now to get the book and join in.  Thanks, Ann!  Great idea.

Linda Newcomb in Bay City, MI

I love knitting socks. I'm off to look for the book and then plan to join in. Great idea Ann. TFS! Annette

This is one I can get behind. I have a huge stash of stock yarn..now I just need the book. I will be checking this one on a regular basis.

Thanks

I just received my copy yesterday (as well as a copy for a friend).  I'm newly inspired and look forward to knitting along.

Cyndi

I already have the book. My LYS put one on hold for me as soon as it came it. I knew I'd want if from the preview pictures. Great book.

This a fantastic idea.  I love socks and feel very privileged to sit in on this.  Thanx.

     What a great idea!  Thank you for starting this.  I'm off to get the book and get started. 

          Monica

This totally sounds fun.  I'm getting a book now and will join in.

Just bought the book! Will knit along with you!

This is a perfect way to get further into sock knitting. Just ordered the book and can't wait to start!

Love this, can't wait to get the book and get started!

My Postman has it in his truck!  This is exciting, a KAL with Ann Budd, it just doesn't get any better than that!  :-)

I pre-ordered this book a while back and am just waiting for it to arrive. I love to knit socks, am knitting a pair right now for my sister for Christmas, and I have a huge storage container full of sock yarn crying out to be knitted. There are a number of folks on my gift list who will be receiving socks for their holiday gifts this year. Just learned how to knit two socks at once on one circular needle - love it!

If you already have the book how do you do the KAL?

 

Janet