Issue 22

Containing more than 60 patterns, this book should keep sock knitters busy for a good while to come! It showcases the winning desgins from a contest organised by Knitters Magazine in the US. These range from the classic to the innovative; whether you like lace, colourwork or cables, theres plenty to choose from, while the section of novelty designs features incredible embellishments, shaping and patterning. This book would make a great buy for anyone wanting to explore the endless possibilities and challenges of sock knitting.

Autumn 10

A sock worth $6000! That was the first prize in this competition and the winner also picked up a further $500 for a category prize as well. Modular knitting, Fair Isle, entrelac, cable, lace, mosaic (slip stitch), intarsia, and spot dyeing all feature in this collection of knitted socks. The socks are modelled on real feet and fit was one of the judging criteria. Several of the prizes were sponsored by sock yarn producers so that the majority of the patterns can be worked in any standard 4-ply sock yarn. So far, this is my book of 2010.

Sept 10

Heres a book showcasing more than 50 winning designs from the Knitters Magazine international knitting contest. The collection of innovative, fine socks features patterns from around the world and includes colour work, cables, lace, Latvian braids plus toe-up and top-down designs. Complete with detailed instructions for socks that range from fashionable to traditional, this guide is not only inspirational but also a comprehensive survey of contemporary trends in sock knitting. Extensive charts and diagrams, illustrated explanations and detailed photographs are included.

Elaine Rowley is the editor of XRX Books and the author of Babies & Toddlers: A Knitter’s Dozen, Bags, The Knitter’s Handbook, and Socks Socks Socks. Alexis Xenakis is the publisher of Knitters Magazine and XRX Books. His photography is featured in all of XRX books. They both live in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.