Okay, not reaaaally, no socks actually knit themselves (well maybe Mrs Weasley knows how, but I don't). The point is that this newest pattern release; Bander Ridge is a very specific kind of sock pattern, one of my favorite kinds.
I've come to realize that there are two kinds of sock knitting experiences that I personally enjoy. One is the Totally Committed; fancy patterning, all kinds of cables and lace and nupps and beads, and maybe even a fancy technique or two. Keeps the knitter totally mind-rapt and focused because each row is a little adventure through the woods and you really really don't want to lose the path...and end up on some sharp rocks somewhere. I do enjoy this kind of knit, about once a year and am more than happy to spend all my available brain power to create a masterpiece for my feet.
But these socks. Are not. That kind.
Bander Ridge are the other kind of sock knit that I enjoy, Socks that Knit Themselves; the simple, straightforward, brain neutral "bang out a pair of socks this week" kind of pattern. They are worked with an afterthought heel so you don't even need to stop and think about short rows, or heel turns or decreases or anything. Just work away on a simple combo of twisted ribbing, purl ridges, eyelets and stockinette, each pattern element is simple in the extreme but it's the sum of the parts that really matters in this sock pattern.
And then there is the color, that COLOR! Worked in a Perspectives Pack from Mountain Colors yarn, the color name of this set is called Paradise and I couldn't agree more. I am (and always will be) a warm color person, give me salmons and corals everyday of the week, if it dips into orange... even better. The deep purple and magenta in the set contrast the lighter mustard and peaches beautifully and the pattern is written so you can work either a fraternal pair or identical pair without extra yardage. Because really don't we all love the option to make a little change?
If you are a blue color person, or earthtones, or neutrals don't let the sample turn you off. You can always go stash diving and create your own unique pair, many of the sample knitters just used what they had available in the stash. Each little section of color is only 20 grams (90 yards) so this makes for a perfect stashbuster and the color combos that were created are truly beautiful!
check out gifcunninghams Purple to Peach
and luanneknits' Beautiful Blues
Two of the test knitters used mini skein gradient kits from other dyers, the socks turned out just as fabulous!
Take a look at daritrouts Brown, pink and cream, makes me think of neopolitan ice cream!
And haashausknits Pastel Speckles
The pattern is written for 6.5 (7.5 and 8.5)" finished circumference, no charts at all since the patterning elements are so simple. The heel and toe are both worked with spiral decreases for a 'star' toe, and the heel uses an afterthought method so you will pick out waste yarn and work the heel last.
I would love to see your version of this pattern! Make sure to tag me on Instagram with @meghanjoneslnmp or share photos on my Facebook page here
