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Handcrafted socks are some of the most comforting and beautiful items that a person can be gifted. They can be designed to uniquely fit a certain style, personality, or usage. Socks are a simple mosaic of how life can be lived in snug lightheartedness.
If you’re ready to offer a comforting blend of exhilaration and relaxation to your loved ones and even to yourself, get your yarn art supplies ready. We are going to walk through all the details of sock yarn. In this article, we will lay out what features constitute the best yarn for making socks and provide some product and pattern recommendations.
When you have finished perusing this best sock yarn guide, you will be informed and prepared to pick up your knitting needles or crochet hooks for a wondrous time of crafting with yarn.
Features to Favor
The first step in finding the best yarn for crafting socks is to learn what features make for great sock yarn. When you begin searching for yarn to use in your sock crafting projects, keep the following features in mind:
Color
This is actually an important feature to keep in mind when selecting yarn for socks. Different colors and shades of colors will show the texture and the patterns of the socks better than other colors.
If you want to show off your knitting or crocheting skills, you need to select a light and nonvariegated color to do so. If you showing off your skills is unimportant, then you can select any color that you feel will suit the project.
Durability & Usage
It is important to use yarn that is durable and can hold up to a lot of wear and tear. Remember, socks are going to be worn on a person’s feet and will endure a lot of rubbing and pressure because of this. Because of how socks are used and worn, they will require regular cleaning, so the yarn you use should be something that is easy to clean as well as durable.
Fiber
This is a reference to what the yarn is made from. Some yarn fibers are not suitable to use in crafting yarns because they do not have the right texture, level of durability, or tension that a sock yarn should have. When selecting yarn for your sock project, look for the following fibers:
Cotton/Nylon Blend
While this is not the ultimate yarn fiber blend, this is a good alternative to use if the recipient of the socks is allergic to wool or if the socks are intended to be worn in warm weather.
Pros:
- Good for sensitive skin
- Breathable
- Easy to wash
Cons:
- Absorbs moisture
- Retains odors
- It does not have good tension
Bamboo/Cotton/Nylon Blend
This is another excellent choice for warm weather and hypoallergenic socks.
Pros:
- Good for sensitive skin
- Breathable
- Easy to wash
Cons:
- Absorbs moisture
- Retains odors
- It does not have good tension
Wool
This is the type of yarn that will create soft and warm socks.
Pros:
- It is warm
- It is soft
Cons:
- Does not have good tension or fiber memory
- It can be itchy
- It is not easy to wash unless it is a superwash wool yarn
Wool/Nylon Blend
This may be the ultimate yarn blend for crafting socks.
Pros:
- It is warm
- It is soft
- It has great elasticity
- It is more durable than 100% wool yarn
Cons:
- It can be itchy
- It is not easy to wash unless it is a superwash wool yarn
Gauge
This refers to how thick the yarn fibers are. Socks can be crafted from a wide variety of gauges, depending on what they will be used for. While there are yarns specifically designed for and called sock yarn gauge, crafters are free to choose any thickness they prefer. For example, if the socks you are making are intended to keep someone’s feet warm in boots, you should probably select a thick gauge while keeping in mind the space available in the boots.
Here is a chart for a quick reference on the different gauges available:
| Yarn Weight/Gauge Terms
Worldwide |
Crochet Hook Size | Knitting Needle Size |
| 2 Ply
Lace 0/Lace Weight Cobweb; Thread |
B-1; 6-8;
2.25mm |
US 000 to 1;
1.5 – 2.25mm |
| 2 Ply
O/Lace Weight |
B-1; 6-8;
2.25mm |
US 000 to 1;
1.5 – 2.25mm |
| 3 Ply
1/Super Fine Baby; Light Fingering; Sock |
B-1 to E-4;
2.25 – 3.5mm |
US 1 to 3;
2.25 – 3.25mm |
| 4 Ply
1/Super Fine Baby; Fingering; Sock; Sport |
E-4 to 7;
3.5 – 5.0mm |
US 3 to 5;
3.25 – 3.75mm |
| 8 Ply
DK (Double Knit) 3/Light Light Worsted |
7 to I-9;
5.0 – 6.0mm |
US 5 to 7;
3.75 – 4.5mm |
| 10/12 Ply
Aran 4/Medium Worsted |
I-9 to K10.5;
5.5 – 6.5mm |
US 7 to 9;
4.5 – 5.5mm |
| 12/16 Ply
Chunky 5/Super Bulky |
K-10.5 to M-13;
6.5 – 9.0mm |
US 9 to 11;
5.5 – 8.0mm |
| 16 Ply +
Super Chunky 6/Super Bulky Roving |
M-13 to Q;
9.0 – 16mm |
US 11 to 17;
8.0 – 12.0mm |
Recipient
Thinking of who the recipient of the socks will be is definitely the first feature to consider. Once you know who you are making the socks for, you will probably be able to determine all the other features very quickly and easily.
Tension
Sock yarn should have good tension as it is being worked into a sock. You are looking for yarn that will have a tiny amount of elasticity but will still hold its shape after being slightly stretched- nothing very tight and nothing very loose.
Texture
Keep in mind that socks are going to rub against the skin. If you don’t like the feel of the yarn fiber, then select something different. There is no reason to cause discomfort on someone’s feet and ankles just because the yarn is inexpensive or cute. Remember, woolen yarn is very scratchy, and many people are highly sensitive to woolen products, so be sure the sock recipients are going to be comforted, not irritated by their gift.
Another factor to consider when it comes to texture is that soft textured yarn will not hold up very long or very well against the significant wear and tear that is typical with socks. This requires that you consider texture and usage alongside one another.
Recommended Products & Patterns
Now that we have discovered what features constitute a great skein of sock yarn, we can begin searching for products that fit those definitions. We can also look for some sock patterns that will look amazing in the recommended yarn. Let’s begin.
The Best Bamboo/Cotton/Nylon Blend Sock Yarn – Bamboo Pop Sock
If you need a yarn that has a little elasticity and is hypoallergenic, this is going to be a great choice. Customers are raving about how this yarn feels and works into a project.
- Yarn Weight (Gauge): 3 Ply; 1/Super; Fine Baby; Light Fingering; Sock
- Contents: 37% cotton, 55% bamboo, 8% BPT
- Skein Yardage: 492 yards
- Care: Machine wash in warm water; Lay flat to dry; No iron or bleach
- Recommended Knitting Needles: US 1 to 3; 2.25 – 3.25mm
- Recommended Crochet Hook: B-1 to E-4; 2.25 – 3.5mm
Pros:
- Great reviews and ratings from customers
- Available in multiple colors
Cons:
- A pricey option
Recommended Patterns:
The Best Cotton/Nylon Blend Sock Yarn- Regia Sock Yarn
This is another excellent choice for use in socks that will be worn in warm weather or by someone who is sensitive to wool.
- Yarn Weight (Gauge): 3 Ply; 1/Super; Fine Baby; Light Fingering; Sock
- Contents: 72% cotton, 18 % nylon and 10% polyester
- Skein Yardage: 459 yards
- Recommended Knitting Needles: US 1 to 3; 2.25 – 3.25mm
- Recommended Crochet Hook: B-1 to E-4; 2.25 – 3.5mm
Pros:
- Great reviews and ratings from customers
Cons:
- Color selection is limited to basic neutrals
- A pricey option
Recommended Patterns:
The Best Lace Weight Sock Yarn – Lace Weight Superwash Merino by Pajas Plancas Colorway
This is a great yarn for projects that are all about the little details.
- Yarn Weight (Gauge): 2 Ply; 0/Lace Weight; Cobweb; Thread
- Contents: 100% Fine Merino Wool
- Skein Yardage: 650 yards
- Care: Machine wash in warm water; Lay flat to dry; No iron or bleach
- Recommended Knitting Needles: US 000 to 1; 1.5 – 2.25mm
- Recommended Crochet Hook: B-1; 6-8; 2.25mm
Pros:
- Great reviews and ratings from customers
- Dyed in small batches to keep colors consistent
Cons:
- No refunds or returns
Recommended Patterns:
- Baby Socks/Slippers (Crochet)
- Rye Light Snuggly Simple Socks (Knit)
The Best Light Worsted Sock Yarn – Scheepjes Merino Soft
Use this yarn when you need something that is a little thicker and more durable.
- Yarn Weight (Gauge): 8 Ply; DK Weight; 3/Light; Light Worsted
- Contents: 50% Superwash Merino Wool; 25% Microfiber; 25% Acrylic
- Skein Yardage: 115 yards
- Care: Hand wash
- Recommended Knitting Needles: US 5 to 7; 3.75 – 4.5mm
- Recommended Crochet Hook: 7 to I-9; 5.0 – 6.0mm
Pros:
- Offered in several different colors
- Yarn fibers are thick, soft, and durable
Cons:
- An expensive yarn
- Hand wash only
Recommended Patterns:
- Round and Round Toe-Up Socks (Crochet)
- Vanilla Latte Socks (Knit)
The Best Nylon/Wool Blend Sock Yarn – John Arbon Exmoor Sock Yarn
If you want the most luxurious sock yarn available, shop at the Woolly Thistle. This particular yarn is absolutely stunning in color and texture. You will certainly add this to your wish list this Christmas.
- Yarn Weight (Gauge): 4 Ply; 1/Super Fine; Baby; Fingering; Sock; Sport
- Contents: 60% Exmoor Blueface Sheep Wool / 20% Corriedale Wool / 10% Zwartbles Wool/ 10% nylon
- Skein Yardage: 218 yards
- Care: Machine wash on gentle or wool cycle with mild detergent
- Recommended Knitting Needles: US 3 to 5; 3.25 – 3.75mm
- Recommended Crochet Hook: E-4 to 7; 3.5 – 5.0mm
Pros:
- Stunning color selection
- Wool from highly admired sheep breeds
Cons:
- An expensive yarn
Recommended Patterns:
- Twist and Shout Socks (Crochet)
- My Favorite Vanilla Socks (Knit)
The Best Sock Yarn for Color Selection – West Yorkshire Spinners Florist Collection
Socks should be bright and colorful, and to meet this need, you need this yarn.
- Yarn Weight (Gauge): 4 Ply; 1/Super Fine; Baby; Fingering; Sock; Sport
- Contents: 75% Wool and 25% Nylon
- Skein Yardage: 437 yards
- Care: Machine wash with cold water
- Recommended Knitting Needles: US 3 to 5; 3.25 – 3.75mm
- Recommended Crochet Hook: E-4 to 7; 3.5 – 5.0mm
Pros:
- Stunning color selection
- Wool from highly admired sheep breeds
Cons:
- An expensive yarn
Recommended Patterns:
The Best Super Bulky Sock Yarn – Wool of the Andes Bulky
This yarn offers excellent texture and color in the same skein. If you want warmth and thickness without skimping on color options, this is the yarn to use.
- Yarn Weight (Gauge): 12/16 Ply; Chunky; 5/Super Bulky
- Contents: 100% Peruvian Highland Wool
- Skein Yardage: 137 yards
- Care: Hand wash; lay flat to dry
- Recommended Knitting Needles: US 9 to 11; 5.5 – 8.0mm
- Recommended Crochet Hook: K-10.5 to M-13; 6.5 – 9.0mm
Pros:
- Wide variety of color options
- Great customer reviews
Cons:
- Hand wash only
- Cost per yardage is expensive
Recommended Patterns:
- Crocheted Socks
- Bulky Sleep Socks (Knit)
The Best Super Fine Sock Yarn – Garthenor Snowdonia Sock Yarn
If ever there was a skein of yarn that will make a yarn artist cry from mere happiness, this is it. Take a look because it is gorgeous.
- Yarn Weight (Gauge): 4 Ply; 1/Super Fine; Baby; Fingering; Sock; Sport
- Contents: 100% wool
- Skein Yardage: 219 yards
- Care: Machine wash with cold water
- Recommended Knitting Needles: US 3 to 5; 3.25 – 3.75mm
- Recommended Crochet Hook: E-4 to 7; 3.5 – 5.0mm
Pros:
- Lovely and classic looking yarn colors
- Wool from highly admired sheep breeds
- Designed to be durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- An expensive yarn
Recommended Patterns:
- Armadillo Socks (Crochet)
- Laurel Nupps and Mock Cable Socks (Knit)
The Best Wool Sock Yarn – Blacker Blue-Faced Leicester Lace Yarn
For elegant and delicate sock projects, choose this yarn.
- Yarn Weight (Gauge): 2 Ply; 0/Lace Weight
- Contents: 100% Pure New Wool
- Skein Yardage: 380 yards
- Care: Hand wash
- Recommended Knitting Needles: US 000 to 1; 1.5 – 2.25mm
- Recommended Crochet Hook: B-1; 6-8; 2.25mm
Pros:
- Great variety of colors
- Wool from popular British bred sheep
- Holds its block
- Durable
Cons:
- An expensive yarn
Recommended Patterns:
The Best Worsted Sock Yarn – Rauma Vams PT3
For a pair of perfectly colored and textured socks, you cannot beat this yarn.
- Yarn Weight (Gauge): 10/12 Ply; Aran; 4/Medium; Worsted
- Contents: 100% Norwegian sheep wool
- Skein Yardage: 90 yards
- Care: Hand wash; lay flat to dry
- Recommended Knitting Needles: US 7 to 9; 4.5 – 5.5mm
- Recommended Crochet Hook: I-9 to K10.5; 5.5 – 6.5mm
Pros:
- Great color selection
- Norwegian made
Cons:
- An expensive yarn
Recommended Patterns:
Segue Socks (Crochet)
Two at Once, Toe Up, Magic Loop Socks (Knit)
FAQs
Question: What is Pure New Wool?
Answer: This refers to wool that has been shorn of a living sheep and has not been processed or blended with any other fibers. This is distinct from Lambswool, which refers to wool that has been shorn from a lamb aged between 6 and 12 months.
Question: What is Yarn Blooming?
Answer: This refers to how yarn gets puffy after it has been wash and dried. Blooming is typical of woolen yarns which is why it is always a good idea to wash the yarn before using it in a project and block yarn after crafting a project.
Question: What is Yarn Blocking?
Answer: This refers to the process of stretching, setting, and shaping a project after it has been washed. It is a simple process that takes eight steps to complete. These steps are:
- Fill a container with lukewarm water and gentle soap.
- Soak the yarn art project in the water.
- Remove the yarn art from the water and gently squeeze out excess water without twisting the project.
- Put the yarn art on a clean and dry towel.
- Roll the towel like a sushi roll so that it encloses the yarn art and squeezes more water from it.
- Unroll the towel.
- Put the yarn art on a blocking board and pin its edges so that it is shaped appropriately.
- Allow the yarn art to completely dry before removing it from the blocking board.
Craft Your Socks Off
Now you know how to find the best sock yarn, plus a few extra tips for sock care. With all this fabulous yarn just a few clicks away, there’s no reason not to plan for a festivity of sock-making proportions this fall and winter. Personally, I am eager to get dozens of skeins of Garthenor Snowdonia Sock Yarn to craft socks for everyone I know.