Love this book. I was in my first year of sock knitting (wow, two pairs already) when I received it as a Xmas present. Knitted three pair from this book in the next three months. Patterns were easy to follow and I have a few more planned. Bearing in mind that I live in Australia where it's freaking hot most of the year, this is indeed something special.

Sometimes I just sit reading it for a while because it's so charming. ( )

Excellent knitting for socks. Love it. ( )

Socks have long been a popular item for knitters to make. Portable and requiring relatively small amounts of yarn, they can be as complicated or as simple as a knitter desires. For many knitters, they are the perfect way to try out a new technique while make something inherently useful, and ensure that loved ones’ feet are kept warm.

From the second issue of Interweave Knits, sock patterns have been an integral part of the popular magazine. Ann Budd and Anne Merrow have combed the archives and selected seventeen of their favourite designs for inclusion in Favorite Socks: 25 Timeless Designs from Interweave. From Meida’s Socks, Estonian-inspired lace socks by Nancy Bush (1997), to the Waving Lace Socks, a popular design by Evelyn A. Clark featured on the book’s cover (2004), there is sure to be an old favourite for everyone.

Patterns have also been pulled from sister publications PieceWork and Spin•Off, presenting knitters with patterns they may never have seen before. To round out the collection, six new patterns have been included, designed by Ann Budd.

Many of the original issues of Interweave Knits have gone out of print and Favorite Socks ensures these patterns are accessible for a new generation of knitters. Besides providing many classic patterns, this collection also includes a helpful tutorial on knitting socks on two circular needles, instructions for making resoleable socks and both toe-up and top-down instructions.

Published with a hardcover and a spiral binding so the book opens flat, Favorite Socks is sure to win pride-of-place in many knitters’ libraries. Patterns range from the basic Retro Rib Socks suitable for beginning knitters (Winter 2004 issue) to the elegant Anniversary Socks in a cashmere/silk blend (PieceWork, Sept/Oct 2003) or the Eesti Trail Hiking Socks in colourwork (Winter 1997) for knitters who seek more of a challenge.

A Knitalong (KAL) has already popped up for Favorite Socks and is open to anyone who wishes to join. As the organizers state: “This is the place to share your photos, suggestions for yarn substitutions or variations, or any other creative ideas related to the patterns from the book.” ( )

Well it is Interweave so you know it is going to be good. The variety of patterns is nice, not the same old thing. I have knitted some of the patterns and they are easy to follow and to adapt. For example, a five needle to a four needle. And I love my regular heel and usually incorporate that. If you want to try it, get it from the library but I bet you end up buying it. I really like the spiral bound format too. ( )

I haven't tried knitting any of the patterns yet but just looking at the photos and peeking at the instructions is an inspiration.