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Folk
Socks: The History & Technique of Hanknitted Footwear
by
Nancy Bush
As
many of you know, we had an inspirational program in October
about Socks! One of the books Candy mentioned was "Folk
Socks" by Nancy Bush. I have a personal affinity for
this author because she taught me how to knit a sock via
this book.
My
first pair of socks should be framed and labeled "How
NOT to knit socks". I had help from someone but neither
the explanation nor the demonstration were really sinking
in - and it didn't help that the knitter was left handed
so things got a bit backwards - for both of us. My first
sock - a very narrow and anemic looking thing was... well...ok.
Maybe. It was meant for my daughter but I seriously wondered
if I knew a six year old it might actually fit. The second
sock somehow looked different....like... the purl side was
facing me but than it would change back to stockinette.
(Time and experience reveal that I HAD knit the sock inside-out!).
I'm
a big believer in reading for pleasure and instruction and
the Knitting Goddess guided me to this book, my first sock
book. Nancy gives a very nice history on socks from various
countries - Great Britain, Norway, Estonia and more. In
chapter 5 she gives thorough and 'almost' idiot-proof instructions
on the construction of a sock. By following her instructions
and clear drawings I made my first pair of serviceable socks.
I was thrilled!
In
chapter 6 she presents the "Classic Sock" with
several variations on Heels and Toes. The reader is given
options and choices that range from the simplest to more
complex construction. I found this chapter so valuable that
I wrote up a "summary" that consists of the basics
and I carry it with me in my tote to have handy if I ever
had a memory lapse. You may want to do the same!
Chapter
7 than presents over a dozen individual sock patterns. Again
they range from simple to complex. She coaxes the reader
into trying the heel and toe variations by dispersing them
throughout the patterns but also assures you that you are
free to use whatever method you are most comfortable with.
How nice. No pressure.
If
you've attempted knitting in the round and have looked enviously
at another member's hand knit socks - you're ready for Nancy
Bush and Folk Socks. It will become a wonderful addition
to your library for both the patterns and as a practical
reference book.
Respectfully
submitted, Robin Connolly-Medici
Buy
this book from Amazon.com
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