I prefer non-superwash SOCK yarn so contacted Patons this past December regarding Kroy Socks. Customer Service responded that it is "washable wool" but not superwash wool. I know that many treat it as superwash but thought this interesting information.
These thorough evaluations are much appreciated for the budget-conscious knitters. Your presentations are clear, full of pertinent facts, and fun! Thank you.
Hi! Nice review, I've used all of these Yarns and I agree with everything you said about them positive and negatives were spot on and I will probably continue to use them in future projects. I've knit socks and hats with them. Thanks for sharing! Happy Knitting!
Reviews are very user friendly. I like that this session is on the less expensive products. I am on fixed income and many bloggers use many recommend more expensive independent dyers product and that is what they showcase. I like 100% wool but $26 or more for a pair of socks is just a little out of my range. I appreciate that your post are direct and matter of fact. I always learn something and enjoy your post. Thank you.
Thank you for correcting the pronunciation of Paton’s yarn. My in-laws live in the Toronto area and they all say Pat-ons, not Pay-tons. I’ve been saying it wrong for 30 years! Paton’s and Bernat were the primary yarns my LYS carried back in the day before big box stores, so that’s the yarn I knit my first project. It’s my go to yarn. Love your videos, thank you!
Great video!Yes, more big boxes yarn next week, I know nobody that speaks about these yarns in deep and so entertaining as you do.Thank you for all the insights and information
I've been knitting with Patons Kroy socks for years and I've never seen a single knot... It wears like iron and is nice and warm. I like it as much as all the European sock yarns.
Thanks Kristine, another great comparative look at these yarns. I’ve knit a lot of sock with the Patons Kroy -it’s my go-to yarn and always have it in stash. As much as I love the feel of MCN and some of the inde dyed yarns, they tend to loosen up while wearing. The Patons holds its shape well. It is a little rough while knitting, but my feet don’t mind them at all. I only had one skein that had a knot at the very end so it threw off my stripes (I had worked so hard to get them matching). One other skein was wound in the opposite order so I had to re-wind it. I’ve also used the Lions Brand. IT is a thin sock weight and I had to go down to size 0 needle so I could get the tight fabric I like. They are okay -nothing special, but I do like that they are thin so I can wear them in tighter shoes. Both brands wash well and the colors have not faded.
I have made several pairs of socks with Premier Serenity sock yarn that I bought at our local Joann store. My only issue is that the store ONLY carries two colorways of the yarn. I've asked them to carry more choices, but was told that's all corporate would send them. I've been frustrated that I could not get other colors as I enjoy working with the yarn. It seems to wear well. I did not run into knots and it didn't split too much .
Great review! I've used all of those yarns except the last one. I like them all and find them durable as well as having less knots than Felici sock yarn. I've made socks, mitts, and shawls (knit and crochet)with most and find they hold up well also. Patons Kroy would be my favorite of these, they make a comfy and warmer sock, they also get softer with wear.
First I would like to say that I love your podcast !!! This one was wonderful. Store brand sock yarn is wonderful, as we know not everyone can pay 20$ or more for some yarns. I tend to do both, But, store bought yarn has some added benefits. 1, it doesn't bleed as I have found in some indie dyes yarns, 2 , you can make 1 pair of socks out of a 50 gram ball if you use contrast heel, toe, and cuff, which I have done before. And 3rd, I do tend to find they are a strong and long lasting yarn as u had mentioned . AGAIN, Thank you for you lovely podcasts
Yes to that premiere yarn found at Walmart!!! I'm starting my first pair of socks with this yarn, so far no knots in the ball I'm using and what I really love it's that it doesn't fall apart when u knit like the thread doesn't split and in other yarns it does, thra a pain in the butt because when yarn splits on the tiny needles u need to catch it before u make the stitch
Loved this video! This makes it so much easier and quicker when going to the store. Sometimes you just want socks without breaking the bank. I have found that out of all my beautiful yarns I like Regia and cascade heritage for my socks. They are sturdy, warm, and they hold the shape the best. I will be trying some of these out soon. Thanks for the hard work Kris!
Love your videos! Thank you for these on Big Box stores. I have a huge stash of Red Heart worsted, sport and baby yarn that was my Mom's. I have just started knitting socks and tried the Paton's Kroy. I loved it--no knots and the stripes match exactly. I was able to get a pair from one skein. 56 sts on sz one.(Small feet!) I found a super easy toe up, fleegle heel pattern. Great for a beginner. I wonder why I've only seen one podcaster use the fleegle heel. No wrap and turn, no picking up sts. Easy for someone that never knit socks before. Thanks again for all your great videos.
I learned fleegle heel toe up from Happee Knits on RUclips just a few months ago and that's all I've ever made. BUT I still haven't found the perfect fit for my foot. They tend to be too long so on my next ones I'll start the heel increases way sooner.
I count rows to make sure both socks are the same length and have figured how many rows are the right length. Also have played with stitch counts with different yarn weights. I have done a heel flap but prefer the fleegle.
Hi Al -- yes, I love the look of that heel. I knit my socks top down, and I think the Fleegle heel is for toe up. If I ever do a toe-up sock, I am going to try it. :)
Almost forgot: I have used Red Heart Heart & Sole for toddler socks and they turned out really well. Made two pairs and will make more. Kristine, I really enjoy your channel. I have no idea how you find time to make your videos, but always look forward to a new one :)
I just found your videos and I really want to thank you for this one especially. This has been a question that I have had for a while. We are just getting back on our feet after being homeless for a year and a half. We finally have had a roof over our head for a year and a half. My husband can finally work again and we are still on a very tight budget. He also goes through socks as if they were water. His job requires him to be on his feet all day and he does a lot of walking. Store-bought socks just don't last. I am hoping to get some durable yarn that will last longer than store-bought yarn. I also am just learning too in a way. I have never made socks either crochet or knit. I have been crocheting since I was very young but never read a pattern until I recently started teaching myself. I also taught myself how to knit 6 years ago but have never knitted socks because of the whole gusset and heal kind of scared me lol. But now is the time to learn mostly because socks are a necessity. However, I can't even go buy yarn when I want and I don't have any stash to work from of any type of yarn or even scraps. But I will do what I can when I can and I will develop a stash again. Thank youf for this video and a few others of yours that I have watched recently.
Hi Sharleen -- thanks for sharing your story. I'm so glad to hear your family is doing better. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment and for watching my video.
Hi - thanks for another great podcast. I have used Patons Kroy (thanks for the pronunciation ) often and really like it a lot. It's great for my husband who is a little harder on socks than I am, but I also use it for myself when I am looking for a sturdier sock. I am not a fan of the Deb Norville sock yarn as I find the bamboo content makes for a saggy sock for me. I have used Heart and Sole and enjoy that as well. Lion Brand used to have a sock yarn called Magic Stripes I think it was, and that was an inexpensive sock yarn that held up well - I've never used their sock-ease yarn, but will see if I can find some. Happy Knitting!
Yet another great review. I have been knitting socks for many years and have a tendency to use Regia and Opal. I am currently having great fun with some of Arne and Carlos sock yarns especially their new line or "pairfect" where you get to knit up two striped or patterned socks to be exactly the same. Thanks for reminding me of our Canadian Kroy yarn. I also sometimes add a strand of silk mohair (often colour coordinated) from the heel down to make them even warmer for our Canadian winters as well as sturdier for wearing in boots.
Thank you for this video. I have used all these yarns except the Loops. Of them all my favorites are the Patons Kroy and the Premier. I went on a search myself for non-wool sock yarns because my husband can't wear wool. I found the Premier good but Berrocco also makes a yarn called Comfort Sox which is quite good and reasonably priced. If you are looking for show ideas, Wool-free sock yarns might be a good one. Perhaps you can find me a winner that I have missed!
I just finished my first pair of Kroy socks, with the Fx colorway Cascade colors. Now I want ALL the colors my Joanns/Michaels carry. That said my few notes are: the Fx Colorways don't have reliable repeats like the striping yarns. I don't find "fraternal" twin socks, but I spent waaaay too long figuring out they weren't going to match. It also took me a while to get the right gauge. It's much thicker than regia or zauberball, and so they make almost a "boot sock" thick sock. And lastly, it's not always as "cheap" as you might think. The regular Joann price is $6.50/skein, the most frequent sale price is $5.25/skein, and if you want to use a coupon for 40% off, it can't be on sale (which it often is) and then you can only get 1 skein with a coupon. That means $10-13/pair of socks, which isn't much less than a $14 opal or cascade heritage.
Great eposide! You introduced more sock yarn I can afford. I have only used the Serenity and Patons . Serenity worked well, but I agree the Patons required a smaller needle and seemed more of a durable fabric great for wearing in boots. I certainly will try the other yarns you presented--a trip to Michaels is in my future!
Thank you so much! I will be trying some of these yarns which I previously passed by in the stores opting for the more expensive yarns in specialty shops!
I love your show, Dr. Kelly! I'm a psych major and I love knitting, so I feel that I have a wonderful connection to your youtube channel! I knit socks almost exclusively. I like hand dyed yarns, but being a college student, I just don't have the money to spend $20 to $30 on a skein of yarn. When I make socks, especially gift socks, I use Patons. I can find a great assortment of colorways in almost any craft store and I like that it's easy care. It's not too rough to knit with, usually acrylic beat up my hands, and I genuinely enjoy the product at the end. I haven't tried any of the other sock yarns though. I think I'll pick some up soon!
Another awesome podcast. I like knitting with the Kroy socks. I usually make my husband’s socks out of Kroy, Or Reggia. The colors last forever and despite his neglect, they have lasted years with no problems. He is very proud of his handknit socks. My only complaint is my local store only stocks the same 3-4 colors. Ive seen some great colors online and might just break down and order some from there. Ive started a pair of socks with the red heart. It seemed thin and I just didn’t like the material it made. I haven’t really tried any of the acrylic blends. I prefer the wool for the wicking and anti bacterial properties. Thanks again for all your work.
Thank you for this review. I didn't even know of some of these yarns. I knit on a tight budget and have used Patons Kroy with great success like the idea of knitting socks for loved ones they can throw in the washer - I also am actually making a blanket for my son's bed with the "Wool-like" yarn - I know there will be many ends to weave in, but a small price to pay for such an economical yarn that's so soft to the touch - also the navy color he chose is the most deep navy color that's beautiful.
I knit with Premiere wool free sock yarn all the time and have only ever found one knot in it. I love the stitch definition of this robust yarn! It doesn't split when you knit with it and the end result is a pair of socks so easy to care for. Also, on the Premiere website you can buy several solid colors. I'm using it now to knit stranded knitting socks and will use it for stranded mittens for those in my family allergic to wool. It's a GREAT little yarn!
I have made many pairs of socks from all types of yarn. Some were indie dyed and way to expensive. But by far my families favorite sock yarn is Patons Kroy. It washes and wears great and is easy care for non yarnie people. They really like that the fabric does not stretch out and get baggy over a day of wear.
Thank you for such an informative and practical podcast. I have made dozens of pairs of socks with Kroy Sock yarn and love it. It wears like iron, just lasts and lasts and does not loose its shape or color. I have recently made some socks using Lion Brand Sock yarn and I really like it. The colours are gorgeous and hold up well in the washer and dryer.
I know this is an older vid but I really appreciate Loops and Threads Woollike for shawls. It offers a lovely fabric in both knit and crochet for a drapey soft flowing scarf like wearable...silky with a feminine sheen...soft enough for baby items. I also use Lion Brand Sock Ease often. I use it for knit interfacing on steeked cardigans, scarf like shawls and simple beenie hats. It dyes well and I really like the rustic wool feel. Both offer a great bargain price for a multi functional stash staple especially with Big Box coupons. Have not used either for baby sweaters but I will this spring. I keep no fewer than 10 skeins of each on hand as I use them frequently.
I’ve enjoyed making a pair of socks in Payton’s kroy, but did have dryer shrinkage. I also knit a baby dress out of serenity wool free and its adorable!
Hello! The baby dress sounds awesome. The socks do, too, but sorry to hear that they shrunk a bit. Good to know, though -- they might do better air drying. Thanks for watching. XO
Great review. I’ve used Kroy, regia and opal. Love them for all the reasons you mentioned - very hard wearing, easy care throw in washer (and dryer although I usually hang to dry). Although some criticize for scratchiness I don’t notice that, but might be something to consider for sensitive folks. (I do think the obsession with softness is stopping people from trying out some great yarn at reasonable prices).
I actually don't like soft sock yarn. I like the feel of rustic wool (both while working with and wearing) and the way it holds its shape and doesn't wear through.
I made a ribbed scarf for my husband after Christmas and he picked a really squishy Walmart worsted. It's super soft and gorgeous. I'm knitting him a sweater now using a Loops and Threads very soft and squishy worsted too. He loves the feel of it. Thanks so much for this, I want to do knitting for family again next year, and once of my brother's is allergic to wool, and a lot of the folks I knit for are little kids, so it's good if I'm using acrylic. This was great to have such a good episode on various commercial yarns from the big box stores. Thanks thanks.
I have used both Premier yarn's wool free sock yarn and Michael's wool-like sock yarn, and I have enjoyed using both. I have only had issues with knots in the wool-like yarn in the colorway blue denim; all the other colorways have not had any knots. It not just that these yarns are affordable, but I also have a huge wool allergy and break out in hives if I touch wool which kinda sucks but that's like. Wisdom yarns also has a line of sock yarns that are wool free (93% acrylic, 7% PBT) with 470 yrds for $8.
Hello! Thank you for another great informative video. I too hate knots. Can you address some ideas of dealing with the knots? Which joins hold up in socks? I know that Knit Picks is not in the big box store category but wonder if you would consider including them in some of the reviews. The first socks I ever knit were made with Moda Dia Sassy stripes sock yarn and my daughter wore holes in them within 2 months, since then I have been a bit gun shy to invest my knitting time into a bargain yarn. This episode will allow me to chose yarns without fear. Thank you and happy February! Holly
Hi Holly -- thanks so much. I love your idea of doing a video about what to do about knots in a skein of yarn. I will add that to my list for a future video. It was good to hear your experience with that yarn. I think something like Paton's Kroy would wear much better. Happy February to you! XO
thank you for another very informative video. I am a paton's kroy fan and I've also used heart and sole and I liked that one too. I mostly make socks out of these yarns. I am intrigued by the premier serenity sock yarn. I might have to hunt some down. I hope they are as accessible in Canada as in the US. :)
I just bought some Woolike because my grandmother is actually allergic to wool but I normally use Kroy or indi dyed. ... I fee like the wool like seems a bit thinner
Awesome!! I’m finishing socks out of Red heart. Christmas. It’s making a very pretty striping pattern. How about doing an episode on the mid priced ones like Heritage Sock or Berrocco Sock. Commercial ones?
I really enjoyed this show. I have used the Kroy Sox yarn and liked it. The JoAnn's near me doesn't carry sock weight yarn. It was great to see the projects people have made using these yarns.
Very great information. I never knew red heart had socks yarn I just ordered some to learn how to knit socks since I'm a new knitter and don t want to use my more expensive socks yarn to practice.
Very informative! I am surprised at all the complaints about knots in these yarns. Nothing annoys me more than knots! I’ve only used Patons and it was fine. Thanks for telling us the correct way to pronounce Patons. It makes perfect sense with the one “t” but so many pronounce it Patton’s. Looking forward to next week video on the big box yarns. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and researching all of this for us. Much appreciated!
Your big box reviews are so helpful. Please continue them. I use Paton's Kroy as my go to sock yarn, but when I tried the FX using a US1, they were so dense and stiff! I frogged them and started over with a US 2 and lesser stitches. Much better! Thank you!
I just subscribed to your channel because of the knowledge u have of yarn I'm obsessed with and determined to make socks and I've begun buying the yarn here and there tfs all the wonderful thoughts on sock yarn
Thanks for the great episode. I have used Kroy sock yarn many times for socks and find it sturdy and dependable. I wash these socks in the washing machine, but lay them flat to dry, and they last for many years. I am just now knitting a pair of gloves with Lion Brand Sock Ease and am pleased with the results. It is a bit thinner than the Kroy and I am using size 2 mm dpns (I usually use 2.25 mm with the Kroy). I haven't tried any of the others, but might in the future. It is good to know you don't have to spend lots of money to get decent sock yarn, but I do treat myself to Opal, Regina and other from time to time.
I particularly like the Paton's FX sock wool. I have probably knit 20 pairs using it. It knits up into a slightly thicker fabric but it is also quicker to knit up for that. Washes and wears well. If you knit it to tighter gauge you might kneed 3 skeins for a larger foot though.
I've used the serenity sock yarn. Recently I made a shawl called MY GRANDMA'S CHINA SHAWL. Pictures on Ravelry. I've also made socks with them. Very durable. My daughter lived them. I've seen the WOOL LIKE,yarn at Michaels. I will give it a try. Also, if they are in sake, you cannot used a 40%off coupon unless it states it can be applied to sale items. Thanks for your info. I live your channel. I listen to you while I crochet, or while I rude the stationary bike at the gym. You are way more interesting than the TV programs they tune into.
I appreciate this review! I'm always on the look out for affordable yarns. I use Premiere's wool free sock yarn for my mom. She has diabetic neuropathy so her feet are very sensitive (though there are bad days where nothing is comfortable). I had not heard of Wool-like before and will be looking into it. Thank you for also showing examples of how these yarns were used.
I have a funny story about Red Heart yarns. Back in 1970 I learned to knit and my first project was a bulky turtleneck ribbed sweater with Red Heart. I forgot about this sweater and haven't knitted a whole lot over the years. I found this sweater stashed at my mom's house and was stunned she had kept it, I had worn it a lot back then. I just washed it and tried it on and even though I am 50 lbs heavier it still fit. LOL I am tickled to have the first thing I knit and I can't believe I made a sweater, but I always made a big project just in case I never did the craft again. The yarn did sort of make a scattered stripe on the back and unfortunately pooled patter on lower 3/4 of the front. I remember being unhappy about that. but the fabric stood up over all these years and back in those days it was one of the only yarns available at our local craft store.
Beyond excellent and well explained show of Box Brand Sock Yarns. I have been knitting socks for about 12 years now. I can remember getting sock yarn at a yarn shop only or ordering online. The yarns are wonderful to work with. Then slowly through the years sock yarn appeared at the big box stores. I was always hesitant to buy them. Why is the price so low? After this review I may actually buy sock yarn from the big box stores and give it a try.
Thank you for another very informative podcast! I will be trying the Wool like yarn when I get to a store to purchase it. I just finished an opened toe sock with the serenity sock yarn and love them. I like no easy on my socks send with the opened toe style, I was able to knit a short pair and have plenty left over. I will weigh the used and used yarn and post it on Ravelry soon. I have knit with the Opal, Regia, and Kroy brands and have been pleased with each brand. Thanks again.
Great podcast....I've used a few of these sock yarns, but not all. I am planning to try some of the ones I haven't used after seeing this podcast. I am presently making socks with the Patons Kroy yarn and find it a little scratchy....will see how they feel after being washed. I made a shawl out of the Patons sock yarn ...... it was nice but not as soft it could be with a nicer yarn. Thanks again for such informative podcasts!
Once again thank you for doing the work for us once again. I’m taking my mom out for her birthday today and we are stopping at the store to get some of these yarns. Thank you!! 😍❤️
Another great vlog Kristine! I only have experience with Patons and Regia. I've only made one pair of socks with Patons and am currently working on Regia socks. I find the Regia Pairfect yarn to be very thin and tangles easily. I switch from size 2 to size 1 on these because of the thin yarn. For me size 2 knitted up loosely. Size 1 needles worked best. Also, Regia Pairfect does not slide easily on wooden needles. I had to move to Knitter's Pride Zing. I also tried Sharps on Regia Pairfect and found that Sharps split the yarn too easily. Had no problem whatsoever with Patons using size 2 wooden needles. And they worked up nice and tight. Thanks and really appreciate your videos.
I love Drops Fabel and from Performance yarns "Sockwool Prime Multi. Both come in 50 g balls, so you have to get two. No knots, afordabe and wears very very good!
I love this episode, I can't wait to try that premier wool free yarn. I love loops and threads woolike, I made an Exploration Station shawl by Stephen West out of it. Right now I am knitting a sock head cowl out of the Patons yarn.
Kroy is my go-to for generic socks for all people - adults as well as children. I have found very few knots. The price is reasonable and makes it a good choice for children and young people. Two skeins - a pair of socks or a slouchy hat. Should mention that these socks last for years...
I really like Woolite yarn but it is light fingering and Too thin for socks using one strand. I picked up two skeins of every color Michaels had for a little over $1 each on sale one day. Use it double stranded for contrasting heels and toes, or for shawls, cowls. Makes nice lace work. With the amount of yardage my stash will last forever. Definitely recommend it but will not be knitting full socks with it again. The Premier sock yarn is great for socks.
This is great information. I'm always asking my German friend to bring mr sock yarn when she visits me. Some of the affordable sock yarn from Germany is loosely spun.
Very informative! Thank you! As I've progressed in my knitting/crocheting, I've felt like to make really nice projects I'd need to buy the really expensive yarn. It's nice to be told that doesn't have to be the case. I love the feel of the woolike yarn. I've made a couple super soft hats out of it, and I'm planning a sweater. I always thought it would be too warm for socks, though. I guess I'll try it out!
As always a marvelous review! How do you do it? Such valuable information. I have used all of these yarns and love them...for me it is all about the colors! Will buy almost anything that grabs my attention! Thank you!
My favorite is the woollike yarn, I do like the others, I just think if you can get more for your money, you should. 🙄 I'm old school and frugal Lol 😊. Thank you for the information. I will find good yarn at the discount stores sometimes 😀😉.
Thank you for this informative video; just getting brave enough to jump into making socks and this really helps. Looks like Lion Brand, cost wise, will be the best bet. I make a lot of shawls and pullover sweaters and this has also given me ideas for the different yarn usage. Thanks again; very helpful.
Thanks for the informationI have used Paton, lion brand and I have brought the Woolike but haven't used it yet.I like the colors for Woodlike, you are right it is soft. I think the Woolike yarn when knitting socks needs designs like cables or lace
Hi Pat -- well, the key is going to be to find the same point in the color sequence. The problem is that two separate skeins will likely start at different places (e.g., one might start with blue and the other starts with yellow). So you would have to pull out a bunch of yarn in one skein to get to the same color and start at the very beginning of that color on both skeins. Even then you're not guaranteed a 100% match because sometimes companies wind skeins so that some color repeats go one direction and in other skeins the color repeats go the opposite direction. If you want 100% matching stripes, then you might want to spend a little more and get a sock set from a yarn dyer (I know Knitcircus has them for $31 but others sell them, too) -- it is 2 skeins of yarn dyed with matching stripes. Hope this helps!
I use Patons Kroy. I like it but I've had issues with it pilling and some issue with it not holding up well in the heel area. I also use the Premier sock yarn. It kints up nicely and holds up well to wearing and washing and drying. Lion Brand Sock Ease is also good but something it pills. I have actually dyed the white/ivory skein with Walton's food coloring and I was thrilled with how well the color turned out and how easy the yarn took and held the dye. So far the dyed pair has not been pilling. The Loops and Treads I am currently working on a sock project and I find that the yarn has enough stretch that I have to adjust my cast on count. I knit all my socks on #1 circular needles.
Thanks for the informative reviews, I may have to revisit big box sock yarns. I notice Lion Brand has a new sock yarn called Penelope. Very interesting, its a gradient yarn and it comes in an unusual sock blank form.
Hi Alex -- I actually recently ordered some of the Penelope yarn and am eager to try it out. I will probably do a show where I talk about it in the future. Thank you for your comment and for watching my video. :)
My favorite sock yarn from big box stores are Patons Kroy sock yarn. The big box stores only have aboui 4 different colors, but I went on line and they have much more. I wish they would carry more colors as there is always shipping that needs to be added when ordering by mail.
I am a big fan of the Patons Kroy yarn. Some of my favorite socks are made from this yarn. I have made a lot of socks from the premier yarn for my nieces. They are some of the longest wearing socks. My favorite yarn is Opal. But I certainly find these other yarns wear just as long. I love these big box series. It’s nice to know what else is out there.
oh Christine I love your show today. some of these yarns are new to me. Can’t wait to try them out. Thank you so much. Your neighbor in Jacksonville, Jane
I love your channel and look forward to each one! The review of these sock yarns have been perfect for me. I consider myself a new sock knitter and a fairly new knitter in general. My knowledge of yarns to pick is not confident, especially when it comes to Big Box stores. I have made several pairs of socks from the Premier Wool Free and I have nothing but good things to say. Fits well, comfortable to wear, gets more comfortable with each washing and seems softer, easy to work with, I can afford it, I could go on and on. I will try some of the other affordable yarns you have reviewed to see how I do with them. Between your last video and this one I have taken notes to keep in my knitting binder for future reference when I'm searching for new sock yarns.You might be covering this in the next video but I was wondering if you could talk about affordable yarns for beginners to work with for a pullover sweater. This year I would like to branch out from socks and try a sweater. It takes a lot more yarn for a pullover and I don't want to choose something that will make my first project discouraging.
Hi Mari -- what a great comment. I love hearing about your experiences with these yarns. I am doing a video this week on some worsted weight yarns at the craft stores, which you might be interested in making a sweater out of. Stay tuned for that. Thank you so much for watching my videos. XO
I would love to go to Fiber Up North BUT lots of reasons. Our family had a cabin at Bemidji, my dad lived in Monticello, and my sister and her husband have a summer home at Lake of the Woods. Needless to say, I do love Minnesota. Great podcast!
Hello again Kristine!! I hope you are having a wonderful New Year!! I have only made one pair of socks and I think I used Kroy. I actually finished them but they didn't fit anyone lol. I knit them so tight that the fiber was like iron haha! Also I ran out of yarn at the toe of one of them. My goal this year is to learn to be a real sock knitter. I am sure I was nervous so my tight gauge was even tighter. I debated on frogging them but decided to just finish them so I could say I did lol. They are an average woman's size but I still ran out of yarn. I am really happy to hear your details on the yarns you showed. The main reason is if I knit socks I don't want to buy fancy hand dyed for mine. I want sturdy ones that can be washed easily. I cannot always afford the fancy yarn for socks. I would rather save those for shawls, scarves or other projects. I have a limited income, which is the main reason why. I also don't want to walk on some of these amazing colorways that are hand dyed lol. I will be keeping a list of the yarns you mentioned because I think they will all be perfect for my needs as far as socks go. I appreciate all of your input on these brands. Thanks so much!! Sharon / Elvensknits :)
Great review! Very thorough and informative. I have found a few of these yarns, but I rarely find them in the craft stores. I have to order online. I wonder if that has something to do with the area I live in...the boonies! I have Hobby Lobby, Michael's and Joann Fabrics at my shopping area - about 90 miles away but it's almost easier to find specialty wool stores. Thanks to your review, I think I will scour online sites more thoroughly for some of these beauitiful and easry to care for selections!
I prefer non-superwash SOCK yarn so contacted Patons this past December regarding Kroy Socks. Customer Service responded that it is "washable wool" but not superwash wool. I know that many treat it as superwash but thought this interesting information.
These thorough evaluations are much appreciated for the budget-conscious knitters. Your presentations are clear, full of pertinent facts, and fun! Thank you.
Hi! Nice review, I've used all of these Yarns and I agree with everything you said about them positive and negatives were spot on and I will probably continue to use them in future projects. I've knit socks and hats with them. Thanks for sharing! Happy Knitting!
Reviews are very user friendly. I like that this session is on the less expensive products. I am on fixed income and many bloggers use many recommend more expensive independent dyers product and that is what they showcase. I like 100% wool but $26 or more for a pair of socks is just a little out of my range. I appreciate that your post are direct and matter of fact. I always learn something and enjoy your post. Thank you.
Thank you for correcting the pronunciation of Paton’s yarn. My in-laws live in the Toronto area and they all say Pat-ons, not Pay-tons. I’ve been saying it wrong for 30 years! Paton’s and Bernat were the primary yarns my LYS carried back in the day before big box stores, so that’s the yarn I knit my first project. It’s my go to yarn. Love your videos, thank you!
Another fantastic show! I never heard if some of these yarns. I have used Kroy Sox yarn though. I’m looking forward to the next video on this subject!
I have used Kroy for socks for my husband. He loves them because every time they are washed they get softer.
What a joy to finally find a knitting podcast that is serious, informative and professionally done. Thanks for the great information.
Thanks, Mary -- that is so nice of you to say. Thank you for watching. XO
Thank you for this and the previous episode. I've used Paton's, Serenity Sock, and Red Heart. I've enjoyed them all. Love the podcast. -lajoyagirl
Great video!Yes, more big boxes yarn next week, I know nobody that speaks about these yarns in deep and so entertaining as you do.Thank you for all the insights and information
I've been knitting with Patons Kroy socks for years and I've never seen a single knot... It wears like iron and is nice and warm. I like it as much as all the European sock yarns.
Thanks Kristine, another great comparative look at these yarns. I’ve knit a lot of sock with the Patons Kroy -it’s my go-to yarn and always have it in stash. As much as I love the feel of MCN and some of the inde dyed yarns, they tend to loosen up while wearing. The Patons holds its shape well. It is a little rough while knitting, but my feet don’t mind them at all. I only had one skein that had a knot at the very end so it threw off my stripes (I had worked so hard to get them matching). One other skein was wound in the opposite order so I had to re-wind it. I’ve also used the Lions Brand. IT is a thin sock weight and I had to go down to size 0 needle so I could get the tight fabric I like. They are okay -nothing special, but I do like that they are thin so I can wear them in tighter shoes. Both brands wash well and the colors have not faded.
I have made several pairs of socks with Premier Serenity sock yarn that I bought at our local Joann store. My only issue is that the store ONLY carries two colorways of the yarn. I've asked them to carry more choices, but was told that's all corporate would send them. I've been frustrated that I could not get other colors as I enjoy working with the yarn. It seems to wear well. I did not run into knots and it didn't split too much .
Great review! I've used all of those yarns except the last one. I like them all and find them durable as well as having less knots than Felici sock yarn. I've made socks, mitts, and shawls (knit and crochet)with most and find they hold up well also. Patons Kroy would be my favorite of these, they make a comfy and warmer sock, they also get softer with wear.
Hello -- great to know. Thanks for sharing. XO
First I would like to say that I love your podcast !!! This one was wonderful. Store brand sock yarn is wonderful, as we know not everyone can pay 20$ or more for some yarns. I tend to do both, But, store bought yarn has some added benefits. 1, it doesn't bleed as I have found in some indie dyes yarns, 2 , you can make 1 pair of socks out of a 50 gram ball if you use contrast heel, toe, and cuff, which I have done before. And 3rd, I do tend to find they are a strong and long lasting yarn as u had mentioned . AGAIN, Thank you for you lovely podcasts
Yes to that premiere yarn found at Walmart!!! I'm starting my first pair of socks with this yarn, so far no knots in the ball I'm using and what I really love it's that it doesn't fall apart when u knit like the thread doesn't split and in other yarns it does, thra a pain in the butt because when yarn splits on the tiny needles u need to catch it before u make the stitch
Loved this video! This makes it so much easier and quicker when going to the store. Sometimes you just want socks without breaking the bank. I have found that out of all my beautiful yarns I like Regia and cascade heritage for my socks. They are sturdy, warm, and they hold the shape the best. I will be trying some of these out soon. Thanks for the hard work Kris!
I have never made socks but appreciated all the other project options you showed
Love your videos! Thank you for these on Big Box stores. I have a huge stash of Red Heart worsted, sport and baby yarn that was my Mom's. I have just started knitting socks and tried the Paton's Kroy. I loved it--no knots and the stripes match exactly. I was able to get a pair from one skein. 56 sts on sz one.(Small feet!) I found a super easy toe up, fleegle heel pattern. Great for a beginner. I wonder why I've only seen one podcaster use the fleegle heel. No wrap and turn, no picking up sts. Easy for someone that never knit socks before. Thanks again for all your great videos.
I learned fleegle heel toe up from Happee Knits on RUclips just a few months ago and that's all I've ever made. BUT I still haven't found the perfect fit for my foot. They tend to be too long so on my next ones I'll start the heel increases way sooner.
I count rows to make sure both socks are the same length and have figured how many rows are the right length. Also have played with stitch counts with different yarn weights. I have done a heel flap but prefer the fleegle.
Hi Al -- yes, I love the look of that heel. I knit my socks top down, and I think the Fleegle heel is for toe up. If I ever do a toe-up sock, I am going to try it. :)
Almost forgot: I have used Red Heart Heart & Sole for toddler socks and they turned out really well. Made two pairs and will make more. Kristine, I really enjoy your channel. I have no idea how you find time to make your videos, but always look forward to a new one :)
I just found your videos and I really want to thank you for this one especially. This has been a question that I have had for a while. We are just getting back on our feet after being homeless for a year and a half. We finally have had a roof over our head for a year and a half. My husband can finally work again and we are still on a very tight budget. He also goes through socks as if they were water. His job requires him to be on his feet all day and he does a lot of walking. Store-bought socks just don't last. I am hoping to get some durable yarn that will last longer than store-bought yarn. I also am just learning too in a way. I have never made socks either crochet or knit. I have been crocheting since I was very young but never read a pattern until I recently started teaching myself. I also taught myself how to knit 6 years ago but have never knitted socks because of the whole gusset and heal kind of scared me lol. But now is the time to learn mostly because socks are a necessity. However, I can't even go buy yarn when I want and I don't have any stash to work from of any type of yarn or even scraps. But I will do what I can when I can and I will develop a stash again. Thank youf for this video and a few others of yours that I have watched recently.
Hi Sharleen -- thanks for sharing your story. I'm so glad to hear your family is doing better. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment and for watching my video.
Hi - thanks for another great podcast. I have used Patons Kroy (thanks for the pronunciation ) often and really like it a lot. It's great for my husband who is a little harder on socks than I am, but I also use it for myself when I am looking for a sturdier sock. I am not a fan of the Deb Norville sock yarn as I find the bamboo content makes for a saggy sock for me. I have used Heart and Sole and enjoy that as well. Lion Brand used to have a sock yarn called Magic Stripes I think it was, and that was an inexpensive sock yarn that held up well - I've never used their sock-ease yarn, but will see if I can find some.
Happy Knitting!
Yet another great review. I have been knitting socks for many years and have a tendency to use Regia and Opal. I am currently having great fun with some of Arne and Carlos sock yarns especially their new line or "pairfect" where you get to knit up two striped or patterned socks to be exactly the same. Thanks for reminding me of our Canadian Kroy yarn. I also sometimes add a strand of silk mohair (often colour coordinated) from the heel down to make them even warmer for our Canadian winters as well as sturdier for wearing in boots.
Does the mohair shrink ?
No it doesn’t as it is blended with silk!!
Thank you for this video. I have used all these yarns except the Loops. Of them all my favorites are the Patons Kroy and the Premier. I went on a search myself for non-wool sock yarns because my husband can't wear wool. I found the Premier good but Berrocco also makes a yarn called Comfort Sox which is quite good and reasonably priced. If you are looking for show ideas, Wool-free sock yarns might be a good one. Perhaps you can find me a winner that I have missed!
I just finished my first pair of Kroy socks, with the Fx colorway Cascade colors. Now I want ALL the colors my Joanns/Michaels carry. That said my few notes are: the Fx Colorways don't have reliable repeats like the striping yarns. I don't find "fraternal" twin socks, but I spent waaaay too long figuring out they weren't going to match. It also took me a while to get the right gauge. It's much thicker than regia or zauberball, and so they make almost a "boot sock" thick sock. And lastly, it's not always as "cheap" as you might think. The regular Joann price is $6.50/skein, the most frequent sale price is $5.25/skein, and if you want to use a coupon for 40% off, it can't be on sale (which it often is) and then you can only get 1 skein with a coupon. That means $10-13/pair of socks, which isn't much less than a $14 opal or cascade heritage.
Great eposide! You introduced more sock yarn I can afford. I have only used the Serenity and Patons . Serenity worked well, but I agree the Patons required a smaller needle and seemed more of a durable fabric great for wearing in boots.
I certainly will try the other yarns you presented--a trip to Michaels is in my future!
Hi Catherine -- that's great! :) I hope you enjoy the ones that you try out. Thanks for watching. XO
Thank you so much! I will be trying some of these yarns which I previously passed by in the stores opting for the more expensive yarns in specialty shops!
I love your show, Dr. Kelly! I'm a psych major and I love knitting, so I feel that I have a wonderful connection to your youtube channel!
I knit socks almost exclusively. I like hand dyed yarns, but being a college student, I just don't have the money to spend $20 to $30 on a skein of yarn. When I make socks, especially gift socks, I use Patons. I can find a great assortment of colorways in almost any craft store and I like that it's easy care. It's not too rough to knit with, usually acrylic beat up my hands, and I genuinely enjoy the product at the end.
I haven't tried any of the other sock yarns though. I think I'll pick some up soon!
Hi Hannah! It's so nice to hear from you. Yay for sock knitting, no matter what yarn you use. 😊
Another awesome podcast. I like knitting with the Kroy socks. I usually make my husband’s socks out of Kroy, Or Reggia. The colors last forever and despite his neglect, they have lasted years with no problems. He is very proud of his handknit socks. My only complaint is my local store only stocks the same 3-4 colors. Ive seen some great colors online and might just break down and order some from there. Ive started a pair of socks with the red heart. It seemed thin and I just didn’t like the material it made. I haven’t really tried any of the acrylic blends. I prefer the wool for the wicking and anti bacterial properties. Thanks again for all your work.
Thank you for this review. I didn't even know of some of these yarns. I knit on a tight budget and have used Patons Kroy with great success like the idea of knitting socks for loved ones they can throw in the washer - I also am actually making a blanket for my son's bed with the "Wool-like" yarn - I know there will be many ends to weave in, but a small price to pay for such an economical yarn that's so soft to the touch - also the navy color he chose is the most deep navy color that's beautiful.
I knit with Premiere wool free sock yarn all the time and have only ever found one knot in it. I love the stitch definition of this robust yarn! It doesn't split when you knit with it and the end result is a pair of socks so easy to care for. Also, on the Premiere website you can buy several solid colors. I'm using it now to knit stranded knitting socks and will use it for stranded mittens for those in my family allergic to wool. It's a GREAT little yarn!
I have made many pairs of socks from all types of yarn. Some were indie dyed and way to expensive. But by far my families favorite sock yarn is Patons Kroy. It washes and wears great and is easy care for non yarnie people. They really like that the fabric does not stretch out and get baggy over a day of wear.
Thank you for such an informative and practical podcast. I have made dozens of pairs of socks with Kroy Sock yarn and love it. It wears like iron, just lasts and lasts and does not loose its shape or color. I have recently made some socks using Lion Brand Sock yarn and I really like it. The colours are gorgeous and hold up well in the washer and dryer.
I know this is an older vid but I really appreciate Loops and Threads Woollike for shawls. It offers a lovely fabric in both knit and crochet for a drapey soft flowing scarf like wearable...silky with a feminine sheen...soft enough for baby items. I also use Lion Brand Sock Ease often. I use it for knit interfacing on steeked cardigans, scarf like shawls and simple beenie hats. It dyes well and I really like the rustic wool feel. Both offer a great bargain price for a multi functional stash staple especially with Big Box coupons. Have not used either for baby sweaters but I will this spring. I keep no fewer than 10 skeins of each on hand as I use them frequently.
I’ve enjoyed making a pair of socks in Payton’s kroy, but did have dryer shrinkage. I also knit a baby dress out of serenity wool free and its adorable!
Hello! The baby dress sounds awesome. The socks do, too, but sorry to hear that they shrunk a bit. Good to know, though -- they might do better air drying. Thanks for watching. XO
Great review. I’ve used Kroy, regia and opal. Love them for all the reasons you mentioned - very hard wearing, easy care throw in washer (and dryer although I usually hang to dry). Although some criticize for scratchiness I don’t notice that, but might be something to consider for sensitive folks. (I do think the obsession with softness is stopping people from trying out some great yarn at reasonable prices).
Wow. There are a lot more big box sock yarn than I thought! Thank you for all the reviews. 😀
As a crocheter learning to make socks, I truly appreciated this review. Thank you.
I actually don't like soft sock yarn. I like the feel of rustic wool (both while working with and wearing) and the way it holds its shape and doesn't wear through.
Hello! Yes, there's definitely a trade-off with the softness factor. I tend to like the sturdier yarns as well. :)
I made a ribbed scarf for my husband after Christmas and he picked a really squishy Walmart worsted. It's super soft and gorgeous. I'm knitting him a sweater now using a Loops and Threads very soft and squishy worsted too. He loves the feel of it. Thanks so much for this, I want to do knitting for family again next year, and once of my brother's is allergic to wool, and a lot of the folks I knit for are little kids, so it's good if I'm using acrylic. This was great to have such a good episode on various commercial yarns from the big box stores. Thanks thanks.
Another amazing and informative show. I'm so inspired to try any and all of these yarns. Looking forward to next weeks show.
Thanks, Linda. XO
I have used both Premier yarn's wool free sock yarn and Michael's wool-like sock yarn, and I have enjoyed using both. I have only had issues with knots in the wool-like yarn in the colorway blue denim; all the other colorways have not had any knots. It not just that these yarns are affordable, but I also have a huge wool allergy and break out in hives if I touch wool which kinda sucks but that's like. Wisdom yarns also has a line of sock yarns that are wool free (93% acrylic, 7% PBT) with 470 yrds for $8.
Hello! Thank you for another great informative video. I too hate knots. Can you address some ideas of dealing with the knots? Which joins hold up in socks? I know that Knit Picks is not in the big box store category but wonder if you would consider including them in some of the reviews. The first socks I ever knit were made with Moda Dia Sassy stripes sock yarn and my daughter wore holes in them within 2 months, since then I have been a bit gun shy to invest my knitting time into a bargain yarn. This episode will allow me to chose yarns without fear. Thank you and happy February! Holly
Hi Holly -- thanks so much. I love your idea of doing a video about what to do about knots in a skein of yarn. I will add that to my list for a future video. It was good to hear your experience with that yarn. I think something like Paton's Kroy would wear much better. Happy February to you! XO
Thank you for taking the time for this review and all your videos. And I thought it was Pay-tons and not Pat-tons! Thanks for clearing this up.
thank you for another very informative video. I am a paton's kroy fan and I've also used heart and sole and I liked that one too. I mostly make socks out of these yarns. I am intrigued by the premier serenity sock yarn. I might have to hunt some down. I hope they are as accessible in Canada as in the US. :)
I use Woolike for socks All. the. Time. I LOVE it! Softest socks I’ve ever worn. Easily get two pairs out of one skein.
The Budget Knitter Do they wear easily. Everyone says avoid acrylic 🤷🏾♂️
I just bought some Woolike because my grandmother is actually allergic to wool but I normally use Kroy or indi dyed. ... I fee like the wool like seems a bit thinner
Great show! This is right up my alley! Can't wait for your next show!!!!
Awesome!! I’m finishing socks out of Red heart. Christmas. It’s making a very pretty striping pattern.
How about doing an episode on the mid priced ones like Heritage Sock or Berrocco Sock. Commercial ones?
Hi Wendy -- it's good to hear about your project. Thanks for the suggestion, too. I will add that to my list. XO
I use Paton’s Kroy all the time. For socks and hats and baby sweaters and mittens and hair bands ☺️
I've used the Paton's, Woolike, and Lion Brand sock yarn, and they've all performed well. I've seen the heart and sole st Hobby lobby.
I really enjoyed this show. I have used the Kroy Sox yarn and liked it. The JoAnn's near me doesn't carry sock weight yarn. It was great to see the projects people have made using these yarns.
Very great information. I never knew red heart had socks yarn I just ordered some to learn how to knit socks since I'm a new knitter and don t want to use my more expensive socks yarn to practice.
Hi Anita -- that's a great idea. I hope you enjoy it, and best wishes in your sock knitting! XO
Very informative! I am surprised at all the complaints about knots in these yarns. Nothing annoys me more than knots! I’ve only used Patons and it was fine. Thanks for telling us the correct way to pronounce Patons. It makes perfect sense with the one “t” but so many pronounce it Patton’s.
Looking forward to next week video on the big box yarns. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and researching all of this for us. Much appreciated!
Your big box reviews are so helpful. Please continue them. I use Paton's Kroy as my go to sock yarn, but when I tried the FX using a US1, they were so dense and stiff! I frogged them and started over with a US 2 and lesser stitches. Much better! Thank you!
I just subscribed to your channel because of the knowledge u have of yarn
I'm obsessed with and determined to make socks and I've begun buying the yarn here and there tfs all the wonderful thoughts on sock yarn
Hello -- thanks so much for watching my videos and supporting my channel. I'm glad you are finding the information useful. 😘
Thanks for the great episode. I have used Kroy sock yarn many times for socks and find it sturdy and dependable. I wash these socks in the washing machine, but lay them flat to dry, and they last for many years. I am just now knitting a pair of gloves with Lion Brand Sock Ease and am pleased with the results. It is a bit thinner than the Kroy and I am using size 2 mm dpns (I usually use 2.25 mm with the Kroy). I haven't tried any of the others, but might in the future. It is good to know you don't have to spend lots of money to get decent sock yarn, but I do treat myself to Opal, Regina and other from time to time.
I particularly like the Paton's FX sock wool. I have probably knit 20 pairs using it. It knits up into a slightly thicker fabric but it is also quicker to knit up for that. Washes and wears well. If you knit it to tighter gauge you might kneed 3 skeins for a larger foot though.
I've used the serenity sock yarn. Recently I made a shawl called MY GRANDMA'S CHINA SHAWL. Pictures on Ravelry. I've also made socks with them. Very durable. My daughter lived them.
I've seen the WOOL LIKE,yarn at Michaels. I will give it a try. Also, if they are in sake, you cannot used a 40%off coupon unless it states it can be applied to sale items.
Thanks for your info. I live your channel. I listen to you while I crochet, or while I rude the stationary bike at the gym. You are way more interesting than the TV programs they tune into.
I appreciate this review! I'm always on the look out for affordable yarns. I use Premiere's wool free sock yarn for my mom. She has diabetic neuropathy so her feet are very sensitive (though there are bad days where nothing is comfortable). I had not heard of Wool-like before and will be looking into it. Thank you for also showing examples of how these yarns were used.
I have a funny story about Red Heart yarns. Back in 1970 I learned to knit and my first project was a bulky turtleneck ribbed sweater with Red Heart. I forgot about this sweater and haven't knitted a whole lot over the years. I found this sweater stashed at my mom's house and was stunned she had kept it, I had worn it a lot back then. I just washed it and tried it on and even though I am 50 lbs heavier it still fit. LOL I am tickled to have the first thing I knit and I can't believe I made a sweater, but I always made a big project just in case I never did the craft again. The yarn did sort of make a scattered stripe on the back and unfortunately pooled patter on lower 3/4 of the front. I remember being unhappy about that. but the fabric stood up over all these years and back in those days it was one of the only yarns available at our local craft store.
you should post a pic on ravelry!
Hello! Awesome story -- thank you for sharing it. :)
I use Patons Kroy sock and Lions sockease often (allways bout with coupons or sales at Michael's and like them alot.
Beyond excellent and well explained show of Box Brand Sock Yarns. I have been knitting socks for about 12 years now. I can remember getting sock yarn at a yarn shop only or ordering online. The yarns are wonderful to work with. Then slowly through the years sock yarn appeared at the big box stores. I was always hesitant to buy them. Why is the price so low? After this review I may actually buy sock yarn from the big box stores and give it a try.
I’ve only used Patons Kroy before, but that is a great sock yarn. The one you showed with bamboo in it sounds especially interesting to me.
Thank you for another very informative podcast! I will be trying the Wool like yarn when I get to a store to purchase it. I just finished an opened toe sock with the serenity sock yarn and love them. I like no easy on my socks send with the opened toe style, I was able to knit a short pair and have plenty left over. I will weigh the used and used yarn and post it on Ravelry soon. I have knit with the Opal, Regia, and Kroy brands and have been pleased with each brand. Thanks again.
I have used Paton's Kroy and Sock ease. I found sock ease to be a thinner sock yarn. Bother wore well and I found them comfortable to wear.
Great podcast....I've used a few of these sock yarns, but not all. I am planning to try some of the ones I haven't used after seeing this podcast. I am presently making socks with the Patons Kroy yarn and find it a little scratchy....will see how they feel after being washed. I made a shawl out of the Patons sock yarn ...... it was nice but not as soft it could be with a nicer yarn. Thanks again for such informative podcasts!
Love the video to tell us about great products!
Once again thank you for doing the work for us once again. I’m taking my mom out for her birthday today and we are stopping at the store to get some of these yarns. Thank you!! 😍❤️
Wow--I loved this episode. The yarns are great!!
Another great vlog Kristine! I only have experience with Patons and Regia. I've only made one pair of socks with Patons and am currently working on Regia socks. I find the Regia Pairfect yarn to be very thin and tangles easily. I switch from size 2 to size 1 on these because of the thin yarn. For me size 2 knitted up loosely. Size 1 needles worked best. Also, Regia Pairfect does not slide easily on wooden needles. I had to move to Knitter's Pride Zing. I also tried Sharps on Regia Pairfect and found that Sharps split the yarn too easily. Had no problem whatsoever with Patons using size 2 wooden needles. And they worked up nice and tight. Thanks and really appreciate your videos.
I love your videos. Best I have seen. Love the way you give money-saving tips!
Thanks, Susan -- what a nice thing to say. XO
That was really informative. I can't wait to go shopping again in the US in a few weeks.
I love Drops Fabel and from Performance yarns "Sockwool Prime Multi. Both come in 50 g balls, so you have to get two. No knots, afordabe and wears very very good!
The serenity sock knits up nice. I have a pair I made on my revelry page.
Can’t wait till I GWU some of the big box store yarn, I have made a few pairs of the Kroy yarn, and I liked it.
I love this episode, I can't wait to try that premier wool free yarn. I love loops and threads woolike, I made an Exploration Station shawl by Stephen West out of it. Right now I am knitting a sock head cowl out of the Patons yarn.
Kroy is my go-to for generic socks for all people - adults as well as children. I have found very few knots. The price is reasonable and makes it a good choice for children and young people. Two skeins - a pair of socks or a slouchy hat. Should mention that these socks last for years...
I really like Woolite yarn but it is light fingering and Too thin for socks using one strand. I picked up two skeins of every color Michaels had for a little over $1 each on sale one day. Use it double stranded for contrasting heels and toes, or for shawls, cowls. Makes nice lace work. With the amount of yardage my stash will last forever. Definitely recommend it but will not be knitting full socks with it again. The Premier sock yarn is great for socks.
Hi Denise -- wow, that's great you got the yarn for such a deal! Thanks for sharing your experiences with the yarns. XO
Thank you for all the hard work you put in these videos- very interesting 💕
Thanks so much, Brenda. :)
This is great information. I'm always asking my German friend to bring mr sock yarn when she visits me. Some of the affordable sock yarn from Germany is loosely spun.
Very informative! Thank you! As I've progressed in my knitting/crocheting, I've felt like to make really nice projects I'd need to buy the really expensive yarn. It's nice to be told that doesn't have to be the case. I love the feel of the woolike yarn. I've made a couple super soft hats out of it, and I'm planning a sweater. I always thought it would be too warm for socks, though. I guess I'll try it out!
As always a marvelous review! How do you do it? Such valuable information. I have used all of these yarns and love them...for me it is all about the colors! Will buy almost anything that grabs my attention! Thank you!
Thanks for another great review. Look forward to the next review.
My favorite is the woollike yarn, I do like the others, I just think if you can get more for your money, you should. 🙄 I'm old school and frugal Lol 😊. Thank you for the information. I will find good yarn at the discount stores sometimes 😀😉.
Thank you for this informative video; just getting brave enough to jump into making socks and this really helps. Looks like Lion Brand, cost wise, will be the best bet. I make a lot of shawls and pullover sweaters and this has also given me ideas for the different yarn usage. Thanks again; very helpful.
Thanks for the informationI have used Paton, lion brand and I have brought the Woolike but haven't used it yet.I like the colors for Woodlike, you are right it is soft. I think the Woolike yarn when knitting socks needs designs like cables or lace
Dr. Kelly, look forward to hearing from you. I want to try knitting socks, but don’t know how to use the stripping yarns to get a matching pair.
Hi Pat -- well, the key is going to be to find the same point in the color sequence. The problem is that two separate skeins will likely start at different places (e.g., one might start with blue and the other starts with yellow). So you would have to pull out a bunch of yarn in one skein to get to the same color and start at the very beginning of that color on both skeins. Even then you're not guaranteed a 100% match because sometimes companies wind skeins so that some color repeats go one direction and in other skeins the color repeats go the opposite direction. If you want 100% matching stripes, then you might want to spend a little more and get a sock set from a yarn dyer (I know Knitcircus has them for $31 but others sell them, too) -- it is 2 skeins of yarn dyed with matching stripes. Hope this helps!
I use Patons Kroy. I like it but I've had issues with it pilling and some issue with it not holding up well in the heel area.
I also use the Premier sock yarn. It kints up nicely and holds up well to wearing and washing and drying.
Lion Brand Sock Ease is also good but something it pills. I have actually dyed the white/ivory skein with Walton's food coloring and I was thrilled with how well the color turned out and how easy the yarn took and held the dye. So far the dyed pair has not been pilling.
The Loops and Treads I am currently working on a sock project and I find that the yarn has enough stretch that I have to adjust my cast on count.
I knit all my socks on #1 circular needles.
Thanks for the informative reviews, I may have to revisit big box sock yarns. I notice Lion Brand has a new sock yarn called Penelope. Very interesting, its a gradient yarn and it comes in an unusual sock blank form.
Hi Alex -- I actually recently ordered some of the Penelope yarn and am eager to try it out. I will probably do a show where I talk about it in the future. Thank you for your comment and for watching my video. :)
I love Ann’s barn! I want to build one like it to live in and have a working studio! That’s my goal!
I know, I feel the same way! ♥
My favorite sock yarn from big box stores are Patons Kroy sock yarn. The big box stores only have aboui 4 different colors, but I went on line and they have much more. I wish they would carry more colors as there is always shipping that needs to be added when ordering by mail.
I am a big fan of the Patons Kroy yarn. Some of my favorite socks are made from this yarn. I have made a lot of socks from the premier yarn for my nieces. They are some of the longest wearing socks. My favorite yarn is Opal. But I certainly find these other yarns wear just as long. I love these big box series. It’s nice to know what else is out there.
Love this such a great idea, summer camp! We have new grand baby due that week. But I’m interested for next time!
oh Christine
I love your show today. some of these yarns are new to me. Can’t wait to try them out. Thank you so much. Your neighbor in Jacksonville, Jane
Hi Jane -- are you in Jacksonville, IL? We are practically neighbors!
I love your channel and look forward to each one! The review of these sock yarns have been perfect for me. I consider myself a new sock knitter and a fairly new knitter in general. My knowledge of yarns to pick is not confident, especially when it comes to Big Box stores. I have made several pairs of socks from the Premier Wool Free and I have nothing but good things to say. Fits well, comfortable to wear, gets more comfortable with each washing and seems softer, easy to work with, I can afford it, I could go on and on. I will try some of the other affordable yarns you have reviewed to see how I do with them. Between your last video and this one I have taken notes to keep in my knitting binder for future reference when I'm searching for new sock yarns.You might be covering this in the next video but I was wondering if you could talk about affordable yarns for beginners to work with for a pullover sweater. This year I would like to branch out from socks and try a sweater. It takes a lot more yarn for a pullover and I don't want to choose something that will make my first project discouraging.
Hi Mari -- what a great comment. I love hearing about your experiences with these yarns. I am doing a video this week on some worsted weight yarns at the craft stores, which you might be interested in making a sweater out of. Stay tuned for that. Thank you so much for watching my videos. XO
I would love to go to Fiber Up North BUT lots of reasons. Our family had a cabin at Bemidji, my dad lived in Monticello, and my sister and her husband have a summer home at Lake of the Woods. Needless to say, I do love Minnesota. Great podcast!
Hi Barbara -- oh wow, a Minnesota kindred spirit. Maybe you can come to the summer camp next year. :)
Thank you, guess I'll try some of the wool free versions for my charity projects.
Hello again Kristine!! I hope you are having a wonderful New Year!! I have only made one pair of socks and I think I used Kroy. I actually finished them but they didn't fit anyone lol. I knit them so tight that the fiber was like iron haha! Also I ran out of yarn at the toe of one of them. My goal this year is to learn to be a real sock knitter. I am sure I was nervous so my tight gauge was even tighter. I debated on frogging them but decided to just finish them so I could say I did lol. They are an average woman's size but I still ran out of yarn.
I am really happy to hear your details on the yarns you showed. The main reason is if I knit socks I don't want to buy fancy hand dyed for mine. I want sturdy ones that can be washed easily. I cannot always afford the fancy yarn for socks. I would rather save those for shawls, scarves or other projects. I have a limited income, which is the main reason why. I also don't want to walk on some of these amazing colorways that are hand dyed lol.
I will be keeping a list of the yarns you mentioned because I think they will all be perfect for my needs as far as socks go. I appreciate all of your input on these brands.
Thanks so much!!
Sharon / Elvensknits :)
excellent documentation and comparison. thks
Great review! Very thorough and informative. I have found a few of these yarns, but I rarely find them in the craft stores. I have to order online. I wonder if that has something to do with the area I live in...the boonies! I have Hobby Lobby, Michael's and Joann Fabrics at my shopping area - about 90 miles away but it's almost easier to find specialty wool stores. Thanks to your review, I think I will scour online sites more thoroughly for some of these beauitiful and easry to care for selections!