ADVENTURES OF A SENIOR WHO KNITS!: An Interview Part 2. Donna Socks It to Us With Her Sock Expierience..

As mention in An Interview Part 1 my BKF's Kate and Donna shared their experiences knitting socks. I asked the following questions and Donna shared her experience.

Was this your first time making socks?
I just completed my second pair of socks.

What pattern and yarn did you choose?
I made my first pair using the Yankee Knitter Classic Socks Pattern and Berroco Vintage Worsted
Weight Yarn. (Pink)
I made my second pair of socks using The Churchmouse Basic Socks pattern. This time I used
Schoppel-Wolle Ambiente Sport Weight Yarn. (Multi)

What method did you use?
I used the Magic Loop method for both socks. I took a class to learn how to use the Magic Loop and
I purchased a booklet on the Magic Loop so that I would have something to refer back to.

Was it difficult getting started? If so why?
I wouldn’t say that it was difficult but it was challenging. I was learning a new method, the Magic Loop,as well as learning the anatomy of a sock at the same time. I had no idea that socks could be made toe up or top down, that there are multiple toe styles and heel/gusset styles and that there are endless patterns for the leg of the sock. I also had to learn the Kitchener Stitch for a seamless toe.

Did you encounter any other difficulties as you continued to knit?
In a word - GUSSETS! I think the most challenging part of knitting socks. Most sock patterns that I
have come across are written for DPNs. Since I don't like DPNs and want to use the Magic Loop for my socks, I am going to have to learn how to "convert" patterns to the Magic Loop method. I have been told that this is not difficult and that it will become easier the more that I do it.

What tips, advise, etc would you give people knitting socks for the first time?
I was advised to start by using heavier weight yarn for my first pair of socks. This allows you to see the different sections of the sock more easily and it makes the stitches easier to pick up. It also helps when learning the Kitchener Stitch. Everything is easier to see in bigger/heavier yarn. Using a lighter
colored yarn is also helpful. The heavier weight yarn also allows you to complete the sock much
faster and move on to the second sock without developing "second sock syndrome" (which means
never completing the second sock!). My second pair of socks was in sport weight so I will be ready for fingering next! I already have the yarn - Schachenmayr Regia

What is your next project?
I am going back to the Campside Shawl that I started before I started making socks. Then it will be
the Bianca Wrap (poncho) from Blue sky Alpaca.

Donna thank you so much for sharing your experience knitting socks and I look forward to interviewing you again. If any readers have questions/comments for Donna or want to share your experience's please do so in the comment section.