Knitting School: Free Instructions for Knitting Socks
Hand-knitted socks are a popular classic and an ideal project for learning new knitting techniques. In our Prym knitting school, we show you step by step how to knit socks using double-pointed needles – from the first stitches to the cuff, heel, and foot, all the way to the toe.
How do I knit socks?
Step 1: Knitting the sock cast-on
Before you can begin knitting socks, every beginner faces the question: Which knitting needles should I use for knitting socks? Alongside the popular circular knitting needle, there are double-pointed needles, which consist of five needles with a point at both ends. For knitting socks, you distribute the stitches evenly across 4 of the needles. There is a round change between the last and the first needle, which means this is where you start knitting a new round each time. This point also marks the center back and is indicated by the starting thread.
Step 2: Knit the sock leg
Every normal sock has a leg which is worked in rounds. At the beginning of the sock is the cuff, which usually consists of a rib pattern and then transitions into a sock pattern. The height of the cuff can vary depending on the pattern and is created by alternating stitches, 1 knit stitch, then 1 purl stitch. This alternation gives the cuff the necessary elasticity and a non-slip fit.
There are different sock patterns; for socks with cable patterns or other patterns, it may be necessary to increase or decrease stitches on the leg.
Step 3: Knitting the sock heel
The trickiest part of a sock is the heel. There are a number of different techniques for knitting a sock heel. One option is the so-called boomerang heel and another is called the heel flap and gusset.
What is the difference between a boomerang heel and a peasant heel?
For decades, sock knitters have been asking themselves: What is the perfect heel? The answer is not so easy to give, because every sock heel has its pros and cons and is a matter of personal preference.
What is a heel flap?
The heel flap ensures that you have a nice rounded heel and only requires simple knit and purl stitches. This means you do not need to use any special techniques, such as wrap and turn, and it doesn't matter whether you knit loosely or tightly, the stitch pattern turns out relatively even. However, the heel flap is somewhat more complex to knit and requires three different steps. Furthermore, depending on the width of the foot or the sock model, it can look a bit awkward and tends to stand out, for example, on hand-knitted over-the-knee socks.
How is a boomerang heel knitted?
For the boomerang heel, you only need one step, which is divided into two sections. Since the sock transitions very harmoniously from the foot into the sock shaft, it fits very nicely on the foot. However, it is not knitted just with knit and purl stitches, but also with wrap and turn stitches. Wrap and turn stitches are more of an advanced technique, as you can easily create holes with them or they are difficult to unravel because the stitches are so tight.
In addition, you have to concentrate very hard when knitting a boomerang heel, as it is worked in two sections and several rounds are worked across all needles. The heel is worked on needles 1 and 4, and the regular sock pattern is worked on needles 2 and 3. This is not a problem for stockinette stitch socks, but it becomes more problematic with cable patterns.
Which heel is the easiest to knit? In our view, the heel flap is easier for beginners to knit, although with enough concentration, it is also possible for a beginner to knit a boomerang heel.
Step 4: Knit the foot of the sock
Following the sock heel, the foot is knitted; you can determine the length of the foot from a sock sizing chart or from your knitting instructions. For patterned socks, the pattern is usually knitted on needles 2 and 3, while 1 and 4 are used for the underside of the sock.
Step 5: Knit the toe
In the final step, the toe of the sock is knitted; to do this, follow your sock pattern to knit the stitches together and then decrease them.
What is the best sock yarn?
Now that you could theoretically knit your first pair of socks, the question of the best sock yarn is legitimate, though here, too, it comes down to your personal preference. Ideally, socks should caress your feet in a cuddly-soft way, and scratchy socks made of 100% virgin wool are quite a rarity these days.
Fine quality merino wool generally does not itch and becomes more durable through the addition of synthetic fibers, e.g., Meilenweit 100, Meilenweit 100 Woolycell Duo, Cosy Socks Multi Stripes.
Those with wool allergies should opt for yarns containing cotton, alpaca, or silk to avoid a reaction.
Discover our free knitting patterns for socks
Glitter socks made from Lana Grossa Cosy Socks & Brillino
Knit cozy glitter socks using Lana Grossa Cosy Socks and Brillino. The free pattern for sizes 36/37 to 42/43 combines soft merino wool with sparkling accents for a special look.
Socks with sequins in Lana Grossa Cosy Socks & Glamour
Knit cozy socks with sparkling sequin effects using Lana Grossa Cosy Socks and Glamour. The free pattern covers sizes 36/37 to 42/43 and combines a classic ribbed pattern with a comfortable yo-yo heel.
Knitting women's socks
In this guide, you will learn how to knit elegant women's socks in a jacquard pattern. The step-by-step instructions are for advanced knitters and cover all essential techniques, from the cast-on and cuff to the rounded toe.