Introduction

Knitting socks on circular needles is both an enjoyable and practical technique for creating your own custom footwear. In this tutorial, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to help you learn how to knit socks using this method. Let’s get started!

Materials You’ll Need:

1. Circular needles (preferably 23 – 40 centimeters)

2. Yarn – sock weight or fingering weight

3. Stitch markers

4. Scissors

5. Tapestry needle

Step 1: Choose Your Needle Size and Yarn Weight

When selecting the right set of circular needles and yarn, consider the size of the sock you want to make and the thickness of the yarn. Using a thicker yarn will result in a larger, warmer sock, whereas thinner yarn will create a lightweight sock.

Step 2: Cast On your Stitches

Begin by casting on the same amount of stitches that suits your desired sock size (refer to a pattern or sizing guide). To ensure even tension throughout the project, divide these stitches evenly between your two circular needles.

Step 3: Join in the Round

Ensure there are no twisted stitches on your needles before you join in the round. Place a stitch marker at the beginning of your first needle to track rounds easily.

Step 4: Begin Cuff Ribbing

Start by knitting ribbing for the cuff of your sock. The most common ribbing patterns are:

– K2 (knit two), P2 (purl two) – Creates a 2×2 ribbing.

– K1 (knit one), P1 (purl one) – Creates a 1×1 ribbing.

Choose the one you prefer and continue knitting in this pattern for as many rounds as desired.

Step 5: Knit the Leg

Once your cuff is complete, you can start knitting the leg of your sock. Continue knitting in stockinette stitch (knitting all stitches) for the leg’s desired length. Note that if you want a patterned sock, follow the pattern as written.

Step 6: Create the Heel Flap

Using half the stitches on one needle, work back and forth in rows to form a heel flap. Many patterns include either stockinette or a textured slip-stitch pattern for added durability.

Step 7: Turn the Heel

Turning the heel involves short rows which create a curved shape at the bottom of the heel flap. Follow your pattern or instructions for short row shaping to accomplish this step.

Step 8: Pick Up Stitches for Gusset

With your other circular needle, pick up stitches along each side of the heel flap to form a gusset. This process ensures there are no gaps between the heel and instep stitches.

Step 9: Decrease for Gusset

Follow your pattern or decrease two stitches every other round on both sides of the gusset until you reach your original stitch count.

Step 10: Knit the Foot

Continue knitting in stockinette stitch for the desired foot length minus the toe. If you want to add any patterns or designs, follow them as instructed.

Step 11: Shape and Close the Toe

Use your preferred method of shaping and closing your sock’s toe – like short rows, decreases, or Kitchener stitch – to finish knitting.

Step 12: Weave in Ends

Using a tapestry needle, weave in any remaining yarn ends neatly into your finished sock.

Congratulations! You have now successfully knit socks using circular needles! Enjoy wearing your new handcrafted socks or share them with loved ones as thoughtful handmade gifts.