#6 Tiny Chex

 This is my first time to try colorwork, in the round no less.  Squeeeee, I am so excited. I got up early Sunday morning (before church) and knit two toes, just to see how the yarn would look. Then decided to begin trying colorwork. I used red variegated Koigu and my own hand speckle-dyed merino/nylon sock yarn from Wool2dye4.com. Simple pattern of two by two, by three rounds. 

The needles were a major investment. I was advised by the Sock Guru-ess Summer Lee that colorwork is best done with Chiao Goo Twist Short needles.

Two sets were included, so it sorta hurt less to spend $32 for this teeny packet.  The needles are different lengths to make it easier to hold when doing socks. So they say. I was all thumbs at first having to hold and knit two yarns in both Continental and then English style. But I knew this was the challenge and I was determined to get the technique. FYI I am an inveterate Continental knitter, but now I feel like English is a good thing to have in my repertoire.

 Inside the sock, where all the floates are visible. One must not knit too tight, and one must use a larger size needle than for a single color sock, as the floats diminish the stretch of the knitting. 

  And here they are finished.  Afterthought heel again which worked perfectly and with this pattern I was easily able to site the heel exactly for both socks. 

 

Not terrible, no puckering and it feels cozy on the foot, but it was not too smart to use two hand dyed yarns as the pattern is not as crisp...O well. It's a learning pair.

 The fit is just right and I am so relieved. 

I noticed an abundance of red socks from my output. That will change as I have a desire for sweet pastels and Fair Isle patterning in bright colors. So inspired. 

Well, it's the last day of June and I have finished six pairs (not counting the four that were started ages ago and got finished before the Sock Project got rolling). 

I've learned toe up construction, magic loop and English knitting, different heels, lace, stripes, cables, and colorwork, and that is the tip of the sock iceberg.

I bought and assembled this bookcase (Walmart) for all my sock yarn, and put it on bed risers so I could easily access the colors I want to use without having to kneel down. My little chair and lamp fill the corner and it sits across from me as I knit. So lovely. 

I've spent a goodly amount on new yarn, but it was all on sale and that's my justification. Also I am using my tax refund, which has yet to come in the mail, but never mind.