The Sock Project: Colorful, Cool Socks to Knit and Show Off

by Summer Lee

Oklahoma native and proud member of the Muscogee-Creek Nation, Summer Lee shares her knitting secrets for creating all shapes and sizes of socks with dots, zigzags, stripes, and a near-neon palette of happy colors.
 
Sock projects are universally loved by knitters, but popular knitting creator Summer Lee has turned this favorite pastime topsy turvy with designs that feature the most electric colors and wow-patterns ever dreamt up. The Sock Project is a book for every beginners who want to learn, knitters who want to improve their sock skills, and anyone who wants to fill their knitting needles—and sock drawers—with jazzy colors and new designs.
 
Build your skills month-by-month with 12 levels of sock knitting. First, start with the humble-but-mighty Basic Sock, then try more complicated patterns for lace socks, cabled socks, socks with Estonian Inlay, and socks done in stranded knitting. You’ll be able to sample 18 fresh and zippy patterns, plus new variations on favorite designs! The Sock Project is a joyful Starburst-color explosion for adventurous knitters everywhere.
 
Includes Color Photographs

Genres: Knitting, Nonfiction, Crafts

192 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 13, 2024

Reviews

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guys this book was perfect. If you’re in to knitting or even considering knitting this is for you. Summer gives just the perfect pairing of narrative patterns and confidence mixed with wit and humor. There are step by step instructions if you’re a beginner and enough diversity of ideas for those who’ve been knitting socks for a while.

My sock knitting TBK (to be knit) has grown and I couldn’t be happier

[Alicia Pare' · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful, informative, and funny what more can we ask for

This is such a beautifully well done book. The color combos and the photography just sucked me in and I stayed for the witty writing and truly inspiring patterns.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

summer lee is my favorite sock pattern designer (nerdy, i know) so i had to get her book. it would be a fantastic gift for any knitter, whether or not they knit socks (lots of people are afraid of knitting socks but this book really breaks it down into steps and makes it so easy!!) i had to wait for the second printing bc the preorder oversold and it was definitely worth buying - i very rarely buy books but this has so many patterns, many of which i’d love to knit, and i think i will use it as a resource for years. i’m giving it 4 stars because i wish the cable patterns were charted instead of just written out, and i wish there were more specific instructions about how to sub in/out different types of heels in different types of patterns - but once a knitter is familiar with different options they can typically figure this out on their own.

i also found 3 or 4 typos (mistakes on page numbers or stitch counts) while reading through - nothing that wouldn’t be obvious to the reader but kind of a bummer. and a few formatting things - my brain got tricked a few times because the photo instructions are read first down the page, and then across to the next column, but from all my graphic novels i am used to reading across a row of panels and then down - i got used to it though! another thing is that the small text/captions to photos are sometimes PART of the instructions, and not included in the main text. ie you have to go to the picture and read them before returning to the big text - again, my brain adjusted but it was confusing at first. overall though a fantastic resource with fun stitch patterns and general tips and tricks, that i will be returning to for many future socks!

[Melody Schwarting · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is THE sock book. Best one I've seen by far! I can get choosy about sock patterns because, let's admit it, some designs look weird stretched out on feet. These (for the most part) do not, and I look forward to attempting some. Charts are provided for most colorwork/lace patterns but I wish every one of those patterns was charted. Lots of different heel techniques, tips for tension, and (!!!) patterns for different yarn weights. I rarely add knitting books to my library but this one is calling out to me.

[Caroline Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been using Summer Lee’s sock patterns throughout my entire sock knitting journey beginning with her Basic Sock pattern. Her patterns are well written and easy to understand and learn even if you’ve never knit a sock and her example knits are always beautiful and inspiring so I was very excited to get my hands on this book and it did not disappoint! Even though I already own several of her patterns i still found a wealth of information and patterns that will be very useful to me. Cleverly referred to as “recipes,” the layout of the book acknowledges that there are lots of different ways of putting together a sock and encourages you to find the style that fits you best as a knitter. My favorite part is that there are five (five!) basic sock “recipes” with different types of heels and cuffs, including toe-up, which the author confesses to not loving herself. She also encourages you to knit lots of basic socks to begin with to get a feel for the structure and colors you like, which was welcome advice for someone who is sometimes guilty of biting off more than they can chew and stranding too many projects in WIP land. The book also contains some very neat textured designs, color work designs and fades as well as designs for mohair and DK yarn. I’m most excited to work the classic DK socks and the surf wax socks, the latter of which has a very cool chevron purl bump pattern, and of course lots of basic socks like the author suggests. Ten out of ten. If you ever thought of knitting socks or if you already knit socks I can’t recommend this book enough.

[Shelley Dunville · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loooove Summer’s sock patterns, so I already knew I’d love the patterns in the book. I was surprised about all the other information included! She talks in-depth about different heel construction techniques, construction adaptation for the best fit, needles to use, and provides great information on advancing past basic socks. I’m excited to start on one of the patterns later today!

[Mrs Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautiful patterns, too many mistakes. The errata is yet to be published by the publisher.

Errata is being updated in a Ravelry discussion group that’s community driven.

Mistakes I have encountered so far:

Basic DK Socks: The stated stitches to pick up for the Gusset is completely off. Example: For size L (56 sts), instructions state to pick up 8 sts on each side for a total of 60 sts on the needle. This means I would only work the gusset decrease for 2 rounds. When I observed Summer’s sample, it shows that she picked up every stitch along the heel flap. She copied and pasted these instructions on the Cozy Cabled Socks as well.

Cozy Cabled Socks: She fails to mention how the even rows are worked differently than the odd rows. In the even rows, the slipped stitches must be knit to match the sample shown.

Honeycomb and Moss Socks: The ‘Pattern Set-Up’ section is off by a whole size. Example: For size M, instructions state to work the Pattern Motif of a size L instead.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Queen of Socks

After several failed attempts to knit a wearable sock, I found Summer Lee’s Basic B sock pattern and a few of her tutorials. That did the trick! I have made several pairs of socks using her easy patterns. I was super excited when she was selected as a KnitStar a few seasons ago. I was so thrilled about her book. I am going to cast on a sock now!! So many great ideas! Way to go Summer! Hopefully, I will run into her sometime in Tulsa, my hometown too. Love the OK antidotes!

[Ligaya · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author's voice is encouraging and sometimes hilarious. The socks are fun and varied, all based on five basic sock styles that the author details right at the beginning of the book. There are lots of photos of the 25 various designs (seems like there's more—there are 190 pages here!) and the directions are clear. This would be great for the newbie sock knitter but it might also talk me back into trying socks, again... I appreciate that there is a shout-out to Kate Atherley's Custom Socks: Knit to Fit Your Feet.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect book for sock knitters and wanna be sock knitters. This is so full of useful information told in Summer’s inimitable way the at times I wanted to take notes but then to also laugh out loud. I started a pair of socks right away from one the many patterns here (yes, I’m starting with the first basic sock pattern as recommended even though I’ve knit a few pairs of socks already). Buy this book to have on your reference shelf and start knitting!!

[Lora]

This book is exactly what I need - a funny, thorough instruction of everything needed to take a novice sock knitter into a seasoned sock aficionado. I really needed someone to hold my hand, give me patterns for every type of vanilla sock, tips for every typical problem, and beautiful images for inspiration. And then once my confidence is built and I’m up and running, so many choices of where I can go next! I can’t wait to start!

[Marta Pabon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sock It To Me

Wow this book is just glorious. I am overwhelmed and excited by the beautiful sock patterns included within. The beginning of the book gives you great cuff and heel options that are complimented by the pictorial step-by-step instructions. You can easily apply either to any sock pattern. The pictures of the 25 socks that follow are a sirens call to my fingers, begging that they pick up those #1s and get moving.

[Jackie Wilson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointed

I was so excited to get this book. It didn’t take long for the author to reveal that she doesn’t like toe-up socks. And she doesn’t like German short rows either. And it shows.
She made one half hearted attempt to include a toe-up sock with a Fleegle heel in the basic sock section. Everything else in the book is cuff down flap
& gusset.
My preferred sock method is toe up. This book is a real letdown for me.

[Teri B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved going through the chapters of The Sock Project and discover yet another sock that I'd love to have in my collection. They're all beautifully designed and put into the picture with a lot of attention to detail and a vast knowledge of all things socks.

The one thing I miss with some of the designs are the charts, as I am more of a chart knitter than a written instruction knitter. Apart from that, this is plain sailing into a colourful & happy sock heaven.

[Janet K · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a new sock knitter, this book is everything I hoped it would be and then more! It is so beautiful and filled with colorful socks, but also so clearly helpful to me as a newer sock knitter. Summer Lee does a fantastic job explaining anything I would want to know clearly and also with humor. This book would be great for any sock knitter ( or sock lover).

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nothing really earth shattering - good basic instructions with amusing & conversational text and delightful color choices. Lots of good tips to make life easy.

Glad my library had it available to borrow as an ebook so I could decide about purchasing or requesting as a gift - it's now on my wish list. Still knitting vanilla socks to refine fit but several of these patterns interest me.

[Beth Kakuma-Depew · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has been knitting socks for decades, most of this book is too basic for me. But I WISH I had read this when I was starting! The authors suggested method for adding in new colors when knitting stripes is one haven't seen before, page 70 -71. I'm gonna try it. And The Scrimshaw pattern might just be next in my queue.

[Carly · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m sure this is a lovely book for anyone who is intermediate, however if the author wanted someone who is beginner or advanced beginner to be capable of using the books as well it would really help if she would provide a chart that explains the acronyms. Sadly this put the most simple pattern in the book out of my reach. I guess I will look for another book.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful and fun

Great book filled with step-by-step instructions for many types of socks. Conquer your sock fears! Whether you’re a newbie or seasoned sock knitter, there’s a pattern in this book for you. Brand new? Build confidence by knitting a toddler sock!

[Catherine Summers · Rating 5 out of 5]

a very clear understanding of how to make all socks no matter what heel, cuff, lace technique,color work or toe, it’s in the book!

I’m so glad I purchased this book! The colors and pictures are bright and happy feeling. I can’t make up my mind which one to do first!

[Laura Stiller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. Full of Summer’s delightful humor, all kinds of great sock recipes to get you started, and valuable tips and tricks. It’s nice having all of her tips in one place rather than scattered across the internet.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirational for sock making

I have been knitting for years and I often find knitting socks a chore. The main problem is that there are two of them to make and I lose my MOJO half way through. The design ideas im this book and tricks totally helped with that

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is really useful - I’m a decent knitter and can follow patterns but I really wanted to learn more about sock construction. This book has it all and I have already adjusted my sock making technique to incorporate some things I learned in this book. Highly recommend.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The library wants its book back, so I just leafed through it. Lots of charming patterns and good advice. Summer Lee is a lot of fun to read - very witty. I can picture trying some of these sock patterns when I can borrow the book again.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good basic sock book and it had exactly what I wanted - a pattern for a good basic sock in worsted weight yarn. It forced me to kitchener (sock knitters will know what I mean...) but Summer walked me through it just fine,

[Cori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read this book 3 times in the past week. I’ve started and unraveled and restarted a basic sock 4 times. Here’s hoping.

The instructions are clear and straightforward and build in difficulty project by project. Fun happy bright colors and samples are used throughout to inspire you to knit.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the idea of knitting my own socks (though I can’t, pragmatically, see myself actually doing it at this time in my life). This book is beautiful - easy to read patterns, practical tips, and a progression through difficulty that makes sense.
Summer Lee is easy to connect with as an author.

[Kay H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I get all of my knitting books from the library. I got this one from the library and then immediately went and bought a copy. Summer Lee's style is exactly what I love about socks, and I have watched every one of her youtube videos. Highly recommend!

[Peggy Stirling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful photos, patterns and knitting tips

[Jane Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a gorgeous book... Makes me want to knit all the socks in it