April's Guild Meeting

Casting On for Socks!
(DPNs vs. Two Circular Needles)

When it comes to knitting socks, one fundamental decision can mean the difference between an enjoyable project and an extremely frustrating experience--the type of needles you use. The number of approaches for casting on and knitting socks is seemingly endless, but we'll focus on two of the most popular: using a set of double-pointed needles or two circular needles for top-down socks. Learn how to cast-on and join to knit in the round using both needle types. If you've never knit socks before, this is your chance to try both approaches and see which you prefer before you get started. If you're an experienced sock knitter, this is your chance to learn/practice a new approach.

We'll also cover basic sock terminology so you can understand a sock pattern, and other tips for a successful sock knitting experience.

If you are a novice and would like help getting started knitting socks, bring your pattern, yarn, and needles to the meeting, and an experienced sock knitter will help you get your project jump started!

Experienced sock knitters: bring your favorite sock knitting needles and your LEAST favorite sock knitting needles to discuss with the group!

Supplies to bring:

--one set of double-pointed needles (set of four/five needles, any size)

--two circular needles (with 16, 24 or 32-inch cables, if you don't have two circular needles of the same size that's okay--bring needles that are no more than one size different, e.g. a 7 and an 8)

--scrap yarn, any weight (enough to cast on and knit in the round an inch or so)

Skills covered:

--knitting in the round (joining, avoiding twisting your stitches, casting on)

--casting on for top-down socks using double-pointed needles

--casting on for top-down socks using two circular needles

Don't forget, if you won a door prize at the March guild meeting, be sure to bring a door prize this month (remember, it should be only worth $6 or less). And if you haven't already ... it's that time of year ... bring your $15 annual dues!