December 2, 2006

Variation

Dear New Socks,

I love you.
Your simple lack of green-ness and the decency with which you are not a step-out would be enough dear ones, but even without comparing you to other socks I have known...you are a thing of wonder. Considering that I just slapped you together as another variation of my sock pattern to use on the show, I'm so glad we've found each other.

Keysockwhole122

When I charted your fair isle on the graph paper I had a feeling that you would be something special. When I started knitting the graph after your ribbing....I was moved to see the sock you were growing into.

Keysock122

The variegated Fleece Artist against the black of your contrast is strong but balanced, delicate but geometric....short...but long enough. I loved these qualities in you enough to cast on immediately for your second sock. I know that when we go together to LA on Monday we will have a wonderful time. You're going to make someone on my Christmas list really, really happy.

Posted by Stephanie at December 2, 2006 10:44 AM
Comments

Beautiful socks! Viva la difference!

Posted by: Sara at December 2, 2006 10:47 AM

Love the socks! I bet it's a real relief after all that greeness.
Good luck on the show, I'll be thinking of you and the 1001 green socks ;-)

Judy

Posted by: Judy at December 2, 2006 10:48 AM

May I be on your Christmas list?

Posted by: Dorathy at December 2, 2006 10:49 AM

True (sock) love -- what a beautiful thing. Safe travels.

Posted by: Kelly at December 2, 2006 10:50 AM

Wow! Those are indeed beautiful socks.

Posted by: Maritza at December 2, 2006 10:51 AM

So pleased to see the step out scourge didn't turn you off socks forever. And yes, these are beautiful. They could be the kind of thing that makes me attempt fair isle.

after the frakin' blanket is done, of course...

Posted by: Rachel H at December 2, 2006 10:51 AM

Terrific pattern!

Now, is there life after socks??

Posted by: The Purloined Letter at December 2, 2006 10:53 AM

Dear Stephanie,
We love you, too. The care with which you charted us, the brilliant choice of black as the accent color, and the tender feeling of slipping through your fingers is magic.
Love,
The New Socks

Posted by: Presbytera at December 2, 2006 10:53 AM

They are beautiful, but careful, I think you're on the edge!

Posted by: Laura at December 2, 2006 10:56 AM

i really like those socks. maybe my favorite socks i have seen yet out in blog land. and they are not green!!

Posted by: Jen at December 2, 2006 10:59 AM

So pretty! I really like that extra little touch of fair isle just before the toe. I'm glad you didn't suffer permanent sock burnout.

Posted by: no-blog-rachel at December 2, 2006 10:59 AM

Oh how beautiful!! I would like to be able to knit something like that someday! I am now working on an easy knitting pattern to make a small pull over sweater for my grandson who will be 2 on New Years Eve. I would like to get into a class to learn how to make socks.
I enjoy your blogs, both of them.
Hugs,
Trish

Posted by: Patrice (Trish) at December 2, 2006 11:06 AM

Ooooooooh. Socks of pretty.

Posted by: spuffyduds at December 2, 2006 11:07 AM

lovely. i guess there's going to be a lot of sock-giving this year?

Posted by: bea at December 2, 2006 11:08 AM

Those are some beauteous socks!

Posted by: the other Deb at December 2, 2006 11:08 AM

Gorgeous socks! I'll bet the travelling sock is happy you aren't totally burned out on socks - s/he might have been replaced by a travelling sleeve or something!

Posted by: Amy at December 2, 2006 11:18 AM

Cool.

Posted by: Riin at December 2, 2006 11:18 AM

How do we get on that list? My feet are a ladies size 5, they'd be quick, I've been good this year & I never run around in the streets in skanky gotchies!

Posted by: elan at December 2, 2006 11:22 AM

Inspired. Sleek. Truly handsome.

And so totally not green.

Dez, who only has 12,839,713,422.5 stitches to go on Dave's Xmas sweater.

Posted by: dez at December 2, 2006 11:25 AM

Wow! That fair isle is really something. Nice choice of colours! Have fun in LA!

Posted by: miss ewe at December 2, 2006 11:27 AM

So beautiful. So magical. I love the bit of fair isle at the toe!

Posted by: Lisa at December 2, 2006 11:28 AM

hmm...just wondering what one has to do to get on your christmas list? you know, if you would just get your whizkid promo person to schedule a book stop in alabama, i feel quite sure you would like me. until then, i'll just have to lust after the socks. they really are fabulous. how soon are you taping the show?

Posted by: joyce at December 2, 2006 11:32 AM

Very nice! I love the black with that colorway.

Posted by: Sheri at December 2, 2006 11:36 AM

I could be on your list! We met in Rhinebeck and Granby. You seemed to like me...you didn't run away or anything.

Posted by: Gina at December 2, 2006 11:37 AM

I love that pattern! That Freece Artist colourway really does go well with the black yarn! It makes the little bits of colour stand out even brighter.

Posted by: Ms. Knitter at December 2, 2006 11:43 AM

Awesome socks! That is a great idea, especially with the variegated yarn. Look, Ma! No green!

Posted by: Krista M at December 2, 2006 11:44 AM

Those are indeed truly beautiful socks. I love the way that you just jump in and knit. It makes me feel not quite so alone :D I hope that you enjoy your stay in L.A...It might even be a little bit warm for you. I think we are in the 70's next week. If you feel inclined to wander to the Pasadena/Sierra Madre area of Los Angeles, I'd love to meet you. Take care, and safe travels!

Posted by: JenD at December 2, 2006 11:47 AM

Whoa! Those are beautiful....and not a speck of green. LOL

Posted by: sherry at December 2, 2006 11:47 AM

I Love those socks! I tell you what. If you have to knit more socks those are the ones to do!

Posted by: Sandra at December 2, 2006 11:47 AM

Dear Santa Steph - May we have the pattern, please? *blink blink*

Posted by: Dusa at December 2, 2006 11:48 AM

Those socks are great. Don't forget to call me when you're in LA.

Posted by: Marina Stern at December 2, 2006 11:48 AM

You are just the cleverest girl!!! Lucky someone! "LA"??? Think Florida sunshine, palm trees, no snow..... Tempting??

Posted by: Dianne R. in Pinellas Park, FL at December 2, 2006 11:50 AM

Trish said, "I enjoy your blogs, both of them."

"Both of them"? Is there a second Harlot blog that I am blissfully unaware of??? Do tell!

Posted by: Laustin at December 2, 2006 11:52 AM

OMG they are wonderful. glad to see that your not burned out on socks. I am sooo impressed,
lori

Posted by: lori at December 2, 2006 11:57 AM

Stunning socks - Fleece Artist never fails to please.

Kermit was right "it's not easy being green".

Posted by: Isobel at December 2, 2006 11:58 AM

Ohhhhh stunning!! The best for last huh?! I love the charge of that creative juices...lucky person on your Christmas list!!!!

Quick question if you have time...a friend has become involved with a Lama (Buddhist type not fiber bearing type) who is going back to Tibet ...the children there are suffering and he is going to help as he can...some knitting angels an I are trying to get some scarves and hats made to send with him...still not sure when the trip is...Do you know of any knitting groups or individuals that may be interested in helping?

Posted by: Syd T. at December 2, 2006 12:01 PM

Beautiful! Wow, wow wow!
I hope you have a blast on your trip to LA.

Posted by: Andrea at December 2, 2006 12:02 PM

Wish I were on your Christmas list! I'm loving your new not-green socks!

Posted by: Beverly at December 2, 2006 12:04 PM

They are damn fine socks. I am a virgin sock knitter, currently knitting my first pair (Blue Moon pattern). I got a bit stuck on how to turn the heel and found your instructions in "Knitting Rules" sorted it out. go The Harlot!

Posted by: Shirley at December 2, 2006 12:14 PM

At last! I know you are relieved and so are we. You were reminding me of the crazy knitter in the video linked in a September blog. . . and you are F A S T with those needles. These socks are beauties.

Posted by: Sarah at December 2, 2006 12:19 PM

Hi Steph - these are beautiful socks! will you be offering a pattern for them? I don't always choose to knit socks with patterns (usually varigated yarn is as wild as I get) but these are so pretty, I would love to try making a pair. Good luck on the show. I teach knitting and hear a lot about knitty gritty (I don't get cable) and my knitters always get good info from the show...we all enjoy your books, saw you in Skaneateles, and will look forward to seeing you on KG! (Someone will have to tape it for me)

Posted by: donna at December 2, 2006 12:24 PM

Wow. Those socks are just...wow. I think I'm in love.

Posted by: Robin at December 2, 2006 12:36 PM

Watched "Nitty Gritty" for the first time yesterday. They knit a scarf based on Fibonaci Number series. Lots of step outs - all the same color, etc. Yours will be so superior!

New socks are beautiful - please share pattern.

Posted by: Lyn at December 2, 2006 12:38 PM

Ah, very lovely. I've been seeing a lot of black with variegated yarn lately and really loving it. I just bought some bright green, blue and purple Cherry Tree Hill sock yarn today and I think it's going to be getting the black fair isle treatment.

Posted by: Kirsty at December 2, 2006 12:48 PM

Hi again! I don't know if you read my comment in the last post, but I just wanted to say congratulations on making not-green socks! I know you're happy! I can't wait to see you on Knitty Gritty. You'll be great!

-TC

Posted by: Blogless in SA at December 2, 2006 12:50 PM

I love the 'Fair Socks' and how does one get inked onto your Christmas list? If only I lived closer, but if you are ever in Indiana...southern Indiana..on the Ohio River Indiana, you can stay with me. I cook and clean and I will do your laundry. And bake you a chocolate cake. The socks are beautiful

diana

Posted by: Diana Wessel at December 2, 2006 12:59 PM

Dear Santa,
All I want for Christmas is a yummy pair of variegated fair isle socks, knit by the ever wonderous Harlot of Canada....
a.k.a
stephanie the great!
:)
just sayin'

Posted by: Michelle at December 2, 2006 1:06 PM

Georgeous socks, really beautiful. (we're not surprised of course) You've done it again!

Posted by: Adrianne at December 2, 2006 1:10 PM

I think I speak for yarn harlot fans everywhere when I say that your determination to get through sock-o-rama has impressed the heck out of me. Impressed me so much, in fact, that I won't lead you into temptation by telling your about the bags of camel-silk, cashmere, and cashmere-tussah roving that I scored dirt cheap on ebay.

Oops.

Posted by: lauren in chicago at December 2, 2006 1:18 PM

Oh! Those are so pretty! I love them! I'm inspired to knit a pair for myself. :)

Posted by: Kelly at December 2, 2006 1:22 PM

nice. nice socks. I too love them.
I'm wondering if you're going to finish all those step-outs into many socks?

Posted by: Susa at December 2, 2006 1:24 PM

Wow, what gorgeous fair isle! I love that pattern!! I think the fleece artist really pops against the black, it looks like they were meant to be together!!

Posted by: Nessa at December 2, 2006 1:28 PM

Those socks are awesome. I love the black against the light.

Don't forget to call me when you get here. Email me if you need my numbers again.

Posted by: Wen at December 2, 2006 1:38 PM

You mean you don't leave for LA until this Monday and you had the green socks done last Thursday? What's up with that? I'm a little concerned about you. You might even show up well-rested and stress free to Knitty Gritty at this point. Wow.

I love the new socks. But - I don't want to be greedy, when there are so many on your Christmas list who want them. I'll just take one of the beautiful green pair for my gift, thanks. :-)

Posted by: Sheri at The Loopy Ewe at December 2, 2006 1:42 PM

Those are beautiful! I love the contrast.

Have fun on the show, I can't wait to watch it!

Posted by: Katie at December 2, 2006 1:43 PM

I. love. those. socks.
I will make those socks (or a similar pattern).
I have no time to do so, but I will still make those socks...

Posted by: Sandra at December 2, 2006 2:03 PM

You've hit on something here. I've seen some fair isles with two different variegated yarns which can at times be seizure-inducing. "One of each" is a perfect solution.

I also can't believe you're doing more socks ON PURPOSE but you're pretty unbelievable (in a good way).

Posted by: kim in oregon at December 2, 2006 2:05 PM

I'm loving the detail at the toe. Nice, thoughtful touch for that dear sock.

Posted by: Mandy at December 2, 2006 2:10 PM

Since I can't possibly imagine under what circumstance I would be on your Christmas list, I suppose I'll just have to make my own pair! Lovely socks.

Posted by: Felicia at December 2, 2006 2:19 PM

Woman, your fingers are in overdrive! I'm beginning to think somebody pushed "fast forward" on the sock knitting remote,and then forgot to turn it off? Well they are just beautiful, anyway!

Posted by: Angie at December 2, 2006 2:33 PM

Those are some beautiful socks! (the green ones are nice too, although I can see where you'd be sick of them...) Can I be on your Christmas list? Or at the very least can you show me how to knit my own socks? :)

Posted by: Kassia at December 2, 2006 2:35 PM

Hi Steph,

Got an air date for your Knitty Gritty debut?? I'm waiting on pins and needles to ask my friend to tape the program since I cannot get DIY.
So looking forward to seeing/hearing you "live."

As long as I'm asking, when is your next book being released?

P.S. you must be the "Fasted Sock Knitter of the North"!!

Posted by: Jenifer at December 2, 2006 2:42 PM

Cool socks! Love that patten.

Posted by: CateK at December 2, 2006 2:43 PM

Those are amazing....

Posted by: Diane at December 2, 2006 2:46 PM

Please make sure you wrote down everything you did for those fair isle socks - I HAVE to have the pattern, I already own all your books, so if you are going to put it in a future book, that's not a problem but we do need this pattern.

Posted by: Rona at December 2, 2006 2:54 PM

Gorgeous. Those will make for very happy feet, that's for sure. I'm kind of waiting for your Sea Silk to finally leap onto your needles, though, (since I'm waiting for mine). Christmas, TV knitting, to everything its time and place... I get to finally cast on with my Sea Silk in another 11 days. Have fun!

Posted by: AlisonH at December 2, 2006 3:11 PM

Ohhhhhh now those are freaking cool!

Posted by: scoutj at December 2, 2006 3:12 PM

Wow. Those are almost beautiful enough to inspire me to pick up one of my pile of unfinished socks and giver it a go. Almost.

Posted by: Tasha at December 2, 2006 3:15 PM

Killer socks! Love the toe detail!

Have we all said, "you rock" enough? I'd have thrown all the socks against the wall by now...

You so rock.

Posted by: Mary at December 2, 2006 3:15 PM

Joy droppingly beautiful. Just...wow.

Posted by: Melissa at December 2, 2006 3:21 PM

Those are so pretty! Can't wait to watch your episode on KG.

Posted by: Cathi Myers at December 2, 2006 3:23 PM

OH my LORD--talking to a sock as if it were a new baby !!! I do think you've not only lost both oars but you've jumped out of the boat altogether! You have ""sockamania ""!! They really are an apprarition of unmittigated beauty but don't you think it's time to move on to all the other knitted items that await your genius? Take care we all love you

Posted by: Joan H at December 2, 2006 3:24 PM

Oh MY! There awesome! I've been wanting to see touch and feel that yarn. Great color choice. I'd love to be on your holiday gift list!!! ;o)) So envious!

Posted by: Michelle at December 2, 2006 3:24 PM

Those are gorgeous socks. Any chance you'll write up the pattern?

Posted by: Opal at December 2, 2006 3:29 PM

Maybe it's been said before, but did it ever to occur to you that green should not be the color you choose for any extensive project? I mean, the Green Afghan, green step-outs...Nice comeback, though! Perhaps the completed step-outs should be on the gift list instead, happily worn by others until there are holes in the soles.

Posted by: Maxine at December 2, 2006 3:32 PM

Sadly, i do not have the DIY channel, but i'm hoping someone somewhere will tape the show for me. I also want to see Scout's appearance! To echo everyone else here, those socks are truly AMAZING! Safe travels.

Posted by: regina at December 2, 2006 3:39 PM

oooh! i love these socks! i've never done fair isle and this seems like something easy enough for a first timer. any chance you'll put the chart up on the blog?

Posted by: gleek at December 2, 2006 3:41 PM

Oh my. I'm rather smitten by them as well.

Posted by: cari at December 2, 2006 3:45 PM

Hi, I have a question I hope you can answer.I have been coming across patterns that suggest size 2.5mm needles and ALL the charts I have and ALL the people I have asked don't have that size.... There are 2.25 and 2.75. What is a usa knitter to do?

Posted by: Mart at December 2, 2006 3:53 PM

Well, what can I say that hasn't already been said? Fist, the socks are beautiful! Can't believe you designed them yourself...I am totally not there yet but striving to become that good. And I second the lady who wrote "YOU ROCK!"

Second, I cam across a blog that Vickie Howell, the host of Knitty Gritty writes about the show! Pretty cool, huh? I am thinking that when you are on she is going to just LOVE you and write all about it. If you link to my blog there is a link to hers!

Third, I noticed on the website for the DIY Network that some of the Knitty Gritty shows have video media available. Maybe you could ask the producer of the show if she can make that available for your episode for all of those who don't have cable. If she cann't do that then I have another solution that I wrote about on your last post. To make it quick, maybe I could start a "Pass It On" program where the people who get the show can tape it and pass it on to those of your loyal readers who don't. Check out my blog and tell me if you are interested in it.

Hear Ye, Hear Ye, Long Live the Harlot and all her wonderful gift she brings to the lives of those who love her!

Marly

Posted by: Marlyknits at December 2, 2006 3:55 PM

Beautiful socks....very impressive.

Posted by: Mary Jo at December 2, 2006 4:11 PM

Hey, wait a minute, you're going to be in Burbank this week?!?!? I'm a huge fan and I live in Burbank and there's a couple of very knitter friendly coffee places in town. Are you going to stop into any of our LYSs? I would so love to meet you!

Posted by: wendy at December 2, 2006 4:14 PM

Oooooooooooo!!!!!

Posted by: Karen at December 2, 2006 4:25 PM

Those socks are so very not green. Glorious!

Also, I don't know Wendy (above), but doesn't she seem like a very bright person? Really good ideas from her there.

Please let us know if there's any chance you'll be at an LA LYS, won't you? We would really love to meet you. (That's the royal "we". I can't speak for others. Well, except for Wendy. But we've covered that.)

Cheers!

Posted by: Dr. B. at December 2, 2006 4:30 PM

Me! Me! Pick Me!! I've been good. I'm making so many items for other people, I don't have time to make socks for myself!

Posted by: gail at December 2, 2006 4:32 PM

Absolutely stunning. Have a wonderful trip!

Posted by: Jackie at December 2, 2006 4:33 PM

Oooooohhh, da *pretty*! Yep, definitely gotta try making some socks like that. Glad you're enjoying your non-green fling, Stephanie! And break a leg - only in relation to the filming of Knitty Gritty, I hastily add. ;)

Re Mart's question, although I'm sure umpteen others will answer [g]: one place to get 2.5's/#1's is at KnitPicks (www.knitpicks.com). NAYY, just really good needles and reasonable prices. (These aren't their interchangeables; they sell the smallest sizes only as dpns or fixed circulars.) This, mind you, from someone who doesn't like metal needles. Not even metal tips on circulars. But when I started making socks I bought the KnitPicks Classics circulars, and I love 'em. I think I have 8 pr. by now, because, you know, you can't work on just one pair of socks at a time. Right?

Posted by: MonicaPDX at December 2, 2006 4:38 PM

Dear New Sock on the block --
Think you're pretty cute, don't you? Well, let me tell you, putting a little black on your pattern may make your pink pop but it don't fool nobody -- you're still pastel where it counts. You may want to step back out of the spotlight before anything bad cou*RAVel*gh happens. We got like 28 needles to your four, baby -- need I say more.

Posted by: The Green Socks, all eight of us at December 2, 2006 4:48 PM

Those socks are really lovely. Have a safe trip!

Posted by: Meg at December 2, 2006 4:51 PM

This has nothing to do with your post today, but I wanted to share with you how you have inspired the knitters at Albion College in Albion, Michigan, USA.
A while back, you dyed some yarn with indigo. My friend Amanda (you met her in Ann Arbor, with our friend Mouse) and I were really excited by the idea of dying yarn and numerous times, when hand dyed yarn has been shown on your site, we have discussed how fun it would be to dye yarn. Last year we tried with kool-aide and that worked alright, but this year the knitting club on campus (BritKnits) decided to ask the school for money to pay for yarn and dye. We just spent today, two days before final exams, dying yarn, hanging out, knitting, and having an excellent time. We had such a great time and I have met the best people in the knitting club. Amanda and I have shared this site with everyone we know, knitter and non-knitter alike, and we all love it. Thank you so much for helping us to make wonderful friends. The yarn is beautiful too :)
-Rachel

Posted by: Rachel at December 2, 2006 5:00 PM

Seriously! Those are gorgeous! Will Knitty Gritty have your episode up on the net? I bet they would get lots (I was going to say "thousands" but that seemed so conservative) of hits. Tell them. We can beg them for you.

Posted by: bonnie at December 2, 2006 5:01 PM

I want to marry those socks.

Posted by: Robin at December 2, 2006 5:09 PM

Love the variation. Wish I was that talented. Any idea yet on when the show will air?

Posted by: Shel at December 2, 2006 5:12 PM

WOW!!! I'm on my first pair of socks and it will be a miracle if I EVER knit anything that striking:) They certainly are beautiful socks:)

Posted by: Cindy at December 2, 2006 5:12 PM

Boy, the green socks are kinda bitchy.

Posted by: Rachel at December 2, 2006 5:14 PM

Wow, Albion College paid for YARN? I should have gone there. Instead I went to Michigan Tech. However, one of my bosses is the Chair of the Chemical Engineering department. He taught a break-out class on dyeing this summer with all natural dye. And then he gave me all the left overs. He reminds me, when he sees me knitting, that Chemical Engineering was born because people wanted to find different color dyes.

Very cool.

Posted by: Mary Peed at December 2, 2006 5:14 PM

Awesome!

Posted by: Kari at December 2, 2006 5:24 PM

Wow! I am crazy about these socks. Then again, I am crazy, anyway.

Posted by: farm-witch at December 2, 2006 5:31 PM

Sure you don't want to use the green yarn to make those socks with?

Posted by: Dorothy B at December 2, 2006 5:34 PM

Those are simply beautiful! And congrats on new projects. =D

Posted by: Elinor at December 2, 2006 5:37 PM

Beautiful! Beautiful! PLEEEEASE share the fair isle chart. Pretty please? Have a great time in L.A. I know you'll wow them. BTW, does anyone have any suggestions on how I can get my daughter's university to pay for my yarn? I certainly pay them enough tuition. They oughta be good for a couple hundred skeins at least!

Posted by: Mitty at December 2, 2006 5:46 PM

I still want to see what you'd do with some LOOOONG staple angora....so Stephanie, if you want it, PLEASE email me so I can send it to you. Anyone who has a correct address (or should I just check the 'Wierd News' log in the area and count four doors?) for the Harlot, please email me!

Those are truly lovely sockies...and the greens are getting definitely snotty!

Posted by: onafixedincome at December 2, 2006 5:49 PM

I love these. What a great way to use varigated yarn. I especially love the detail next to the toe. It's my favorite part. Nobody will see it inside shoes, but the wearer knows it's there.

Posted by: Jodie at December 2, 2006 5:54 PM

Love love love the socks!!

Posted by: martina at December 2, 2006 6:01 PM

Oooooh...I thought the green socks were pretty (even though there were WAY too many of them!) but those fair isle socks are HEAVEN! Please post the chart, pretty pretty please!

Have a safe trip to LA, and don't forget to tell us all when you're on!

Posted by: Amanda at December 2, 2006 6:02 PM

Completely charmed with the FI socks, completely.

Posted by: Marianne at December 2, 2006 6:19 PM

Oooooh! Aaaaaaah! Which reminds me…she said, casually, in passing, with no ulterior motive or anything…

I've been very good this year.

Just sayin'. :)

Posted by: Mother Chaos at December 2, 2006 6:36 PM

Can that someone be me?

Posted by: tree at December 2, 2006 6:53 PM

Can that someone be me?

Posted by: tree at December 2, 2006 6:53 PM

Can that someone be me?

oh, I had to wait... which gives me time to reflect and say,

Can that someone be me, please?

Posted by: tree at December 2, 2006 6:55 PM

Adopt me! They are gorgeous!

Must buy more yarn. You have a very bad effect on my plastic.

Posted by: Phyllis at December 2, 2006 7:02 PM

How nice are those?! What a true party that must be for your needles. Have a great time in LA! At least this time you know what The Yarn Factory is all about;) What a tease that place is.

Posted by: Carol at December 2, 2006 7:04 PM

I hate Fair Isle, with an unholy passion that exceed's TMK's loathing of mayonnaise. And yet ... those socks are just about the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. If you'd stop calling them Fair Isle I could die happy.

Probably later this afternoon, if you're wondering.

Posted by: Rabbitch at December 2, 2006 7:09 PM

Those are gorgeous! And not green! :)

Posted by: Jen at December 2, 2006 7:12 PM

Dang. Seriously. Dang.


Posted by: julie at December 2, 2006 7:19 PM

Oh, I do love those. I must tear myself away from the self-striping yarn long enough to do some fair isle.

Unfortunately, I've labored under the delusion that I indeed have the DIY channel. Apparently, I DID when we had satellite. We now are back to cable (for the hubby's sports channels in Hi-def) and DIY is now a thing of the past.

I'm bummed.

Posted by: Liz at December 2, 2006 7:30 PM

Dude. Those are AWESOME socks that are also conveniently NOT green! But I do like green though...

Posted by: Convivialiddell at December 2, 2006 7:36 PM

Dear Socks:

I adore you, too. While I cannot promise a life of humor such as you would find at Stephanie's house, I can assure you that I would give you a warm and loving home. I have really soft feet, too. Love, Ms. Knitingale

Posted by: Ms. Knitingale at December 2, 2006 7:54 PM

I imagine it's nice to get a break from green socks! On an entirely unrelated note, I was reading some of the comments and may I say that you get some weird comments!!! Ha ha ha. :-) Happy knitting!

Posted by: Elinor at December 2, 2006 8:03 PM

Truly outstanding socks. Would they like to live in the countryside?

Posted by: Jo-Anne at December 2, 2006 8:06 PM

How beautiful! They make me want to cast on right now. I can't wait until I can knit again :(

Posted by: Stacey at December 2, 2006 9:05 PM

Fabulous! And please have a safe, fun trip.

Posted by: Nancy Hart at December 2, 2006 9:06 PM

Wow these are simply Gorgeous!
Ok I need to learn how to do faire isle...that's it! I HAVE TO learn how to do this!

Posted by: Victoria at December 2, 2006 9:53 PM

Wow Steph those are absolutely stunning. Just Wow!

Posted by: Barbp at December 2, 2006 10:02 PM

Pretty! That is an inspired pattern. Really, you should force yourself to knit the same thing over and over again more often. :-p

Posted by: LaurieM at December 2, 2006 10:12 PM

In spite of the fact that my favorite dress in high school (many years ago) was green, I haven't been too thrilled with the color since we were first married (also many years ago) and green was a very popular color. Our friends variously had - green sofas, green carpet, green curtains, green cars, and so on. I think avocado green was a popular kitchen appliance color at the time also - don't go there, I won't confess the dates.

Thank goodness you are now out of the clutches of the (green) Loch Ness monster, and moving on to the beautiful socks you have posted today. Neato. Come to think of it, you could turn those step-outs into some Loch Ness monster hand puppets..... Or better still, put them away so you don't have to re-create them again.

I'm thinking it will be some time before you post a green anything.

Posted by: Iris at December 2, 2006 10:15 PM

Just gorgeous - love the black contrast! And how did you muster the energy to chart after all those other socks - all those other green socks???

Posted by: Deirdre at December 2, 2006 10:27 PM

Great socks! I want to knit some Fair Isle socks too!

Posted by: sheila at December 2, 2006 10:34 PM

"Awwwwww! How sweet!" she says, as she reknits the toe of sock #1 of pair #1 for Dad for the third time. Dad loves his socks-to-be, even though I overshot the toe by 1/2 an inch. Your socks are lovely. My dad would love them, too.

Have a really big shoooow!

Posted by: Lynn S at December 2, 2006 10:49 PM

Has anyone volunteered to adopt a few of your stepouts? I'd love to finish a few of your green socks!

Posted by: Becka at December 2, 2006 10:51 PM

You're so brave! I hate knitting black -- I can't see the stitches well enough to count them.

And Laustin asked what I want to know -- what secnod blog?

Posted by: Kate S. at December 2, 2006 11:26 PM

O.K. So if these were my socks I'd have a VERY hard time giving them away! You have outdone yourself yet again.

Posted by: Gigi at December 2, 2006 11:31 PM

The new socks are gorgeous. I volunteer to be on you gift list.
Yhey look like they would fit my size 10 feet and I wear Birks so I could show off the toes. The weather is usually warm in south Georgia.
Cheers. Naomi

Posted by: Naomi at December 2, 2006 11:37 PM

Lovely new socks!

BTW, after your tv show, if you never want to see all those green socks again, mail them to me. (with the extra yarn of course) I'm serious. I'd love to take them off your hands! :)

Posted by: Janelle at December 2, 2006 11:44 PM

O Wonderful Yarn Harlot, double hooray for you! Those are wonderful; self-striping yarn is the closest I could ever come to that sort of thing. Say.....you know, Chanukah comes before Christmas (Dec 15 at sundown). If those darling fair isle sockies are found to be of the Jewish persuasion, I volunteer to be the icy-toed Badger to take them in.......... BTW, I've boldly begun a sock and thanks to one of my valued fellow blog-readers will hurry to my "Knitting Rules" for help with the heels. I made some socks a few years ago - but those brain cells fell out somewhere along the line. O, and thank you for being you, Steph.

Posted by: Dale-Harriet applauding in WI at December 3, 2006 12:08 AM

Stephanie,

I got such a kick out of your last posting. When I was in grade school I had to write a love letter from my foot to my sock. I really enjoyed that writing project. I don't remember my mom saving much of my homework for sentimental purposes but she has that one. Your posting made me think of that and made me smile. I love your blog. Keep up the amazing work. I have no idea how you did all of those green socks. You did a wonderful job though.

Michele

Posted by: Michele Vogel at December 3, 2006 12:20 AM

Given that there are so many of us struck with awe at the sight of these gorgeous new socks, I think you should be demonstrating how to do THESE on Knitty Gritty.

You could whip up another 6 fair isle step outs in the next couple of days, couldn't you?

Go on. You know you want to...

Posted by: Eclair at December 3, 2006 12:45 AM

those socks are beautiful! what a great idea to use the varigated yarn!

Posted by: Nancy at December 3, 2006 12:54 AM

i half expected you to do that scene where you slowly go in for a passionate kiss...
but then i realised....

you hadn't knitted it any lips. hahahaha

ok i went too far, i know... hehehe

Posted by: caylie at December 3, 2006 1:04 AM

Ummm. . . . those socks kick ass!
Just sayin'

Posted by: Mea at December 3, 2006 1:07 AM

I know you probably have heard this a bzillyun times, but those are, perhaps, the most beautiful socks I have ever seen.

Posted by: christine at December 3, 2006 3:42 AM

Dear Harlot,

Those are some amazingly cool socks! I really need to learn Fair Isle so I can make socks like that! Since I'm #142 in the comment list, I know that you have all those people ahead of me that have claimed those socks, but did you notice the similarity of our names? I think we're related! I'm really your long lost American sister! We were separated at birth and have now found each other through the magic of cyberspace. I even like Canadian beer and butter tarts (mmmm butter tarts!) Now you have to put me on your Christmas list. I mean, anyone can see how the Dyepot Girl and the Yarn Harlot are related right? Right??? Oh well, sigh! I had to try. Have a safe trip to LA!

Posted by: Dyepot Girl at December 3, 2006 4:40 AM

Funny thing is, I think I asked to be on your "list" first about four posts ago. Go ahead, check on it..I am pretty sure I am! Does that get me anywhere? Probably not...so sad :-(

Do you really read all the comments that we all take the time to post so lovingly? I really, REALLY hope you do.

Marly

Posted by: MarlyKnits at December 3, 2006 5:09 AM

They Are Wicked!

Posted by: Tye Neich at December 3, 2006 5:36 AM

So clever, the black and variegated yarns. I have many skeins of variegated yarns and I'm ho hum about them. They don't really show fancy stitch patterning as well as I'd like and I'm not to thrilled about making another plain sock just to show off the changing colors. But colorwork with a solid color. Now that is nice!

Posted by: Doris at December 3, 2006 5:55 AM

hehe..Steph..you're talkin' to socks, luv...have a lie down!

Posted by: Ruth at December 3, 2006 6:49 AM

Those are some beautiful socks. Props to you! And congrats to the lucky recipient.

Posted by: Lucia at December 3, 2006 7:25 AM

So, like, you gonna write a book about socks now? That would be cool! With your favorite sock recipe and all and the ka-ba-zillion variations you've created during your sock-a-day knit-a-thon. I'm so jealous, I wish I could quit my job and knit all day!

Posted by: DeniseLyn at December 3, 2006 7:52 AM

My they ARE beautiful!

Posted by: Rhonda at December 3, 2006 9:14 AM

Pretty movie star socks! You are going to wow 'em in LA and someone on your Christmas list is going to have gorgeous feet.

I see I'm commentor #150. Unless there are A LOT more socks in your future, I can see those gorgeous sox feet ain't gonna be mine.

Might have to learn to knit one day....

Good luck on tv from the non-knitter in Chilly Hollow

Posted by: Jane/Chilly Hollow at December 3, 2006 9:20 AM

i've suddenly become a green-eyed monster. but; what need have i for jealousy? none, for i too , am a knitter and making breathtaking socks is within my power. muwah..ha..ha...ha...
thanks for showing us those. very inspiring.

Posted by: marie in florida at December 3, 2006 10:49 AM

those are the most awesome socks i have seen in my knitty life! wishing i was on your christmas list!! :D

Posted by: Tammy Deloach at December 3, 2006 11:28 AM

Best. socks. ever.

Ever.

Posted by: April at December 3, 2006 11:28 AM

I still think that you should go do this show, then come home, and THEN bake 2 batches of cookies...one for you kids, to celebrate having a sane (well, ish) mom again, now that the show and the book and the marriage are done, and the other for that poor woman...go, ring the bell, hand over the cookies, say "nice to have you", don't go in, and then leave.

And report back anything interesting...and hope she doesn't read your blog!

Posted by: Colleen at December 3, 2006 11:53 AM

I'd be so ready for any project not related to feet right about now! But I don't have your knitting tenacity - obviously! I admire your stamina, and your end results.

Posted by: Cara at December 3, 2006 12:06 PM

Those are *gorgeous*!
(I sure hope Knitty Gritty appreciates your tenacity and dedication. I mean, I love the color green and all, but there's a limit. Y'know?)

Posted by: Lea at December 3, 2006 12:23 PM

Those socks are the first thing I've ever seen that actually made me want to try fair isle. Nice!

Posted by: Rahime at December 3, 2006 12:46 PM

Oooh! Ooooh! Oooooh! I'm on your Christmas list, right? I need socks for Christmas! LOL Have fun at Knitty Gritty. I know you'll be great, Steph.

Posted by: Karen in Toledo at December 3, 2006 12:54 PM

Awesome socks! And what a great idea, combining Christmas knitting with the Knitty Gritty knitting! (I'm a bit dense, and was wondering what you were doing with all those socks that weren't sized to fit you!)

Posted by: Andrea at December 3, 2006 1:41 PM

I can't believe you're still making socks, instead of mittens or hats or whatever. The fact that you are not sick of ALL socks by now is amazing.

Posted by: Beth S. at December 3, 2006 2:31 PM

Hi Steph! Hey, looking over all your green socks (OMG! I would have lost my mind to knit so much of the same thing)and possible instructions, one thing that I would like to pass on from my own experiences of teaching lesson on how to knit socks is... the step on how to join the needles in the round. That's always the part I have to go over slowly and repeat a couple of times.

Here two websites that have really great online instructions.

(this one can be found if you type Socks 101 into Google) http://www.royea.net/sockdemo1.html

This one has nice video instructions on doing the heel turn and kitchner toe:
http://knittinghelp.com/

Have fun in LA!!! (Hey, maybe someone will see your lovely fabulous self and think that there should be a MOVIE dedicated to knitting, you and your troop of socks can be big Hollywood stars!! WOO-HOO!! hehehehehe)

Posted by: ialiuxh at December 3, 2006 3:06 PM

You inspire me to get out the graph paper and see what could happen...

Posted by: Deb at December 3, 2006 3:07 PM

OMG they are breathtaking! I want the chart :)

Posted by: Michele at December 3, 2006 3:18 PM

Am I that happy someone on your Christmas list? No? I thought not. Oh, bother. And they are such pretty socks, too.

Posted by: trek at December 3, 2006 3:52 PM

coming from one very stuck-in-the-airport-weary traveler, I hope you have a very quick, uneventful flight and enough projects nearby if it isn't.

your socks are lovely, but I'm a wee bit jealous that my fair'isling doesn't lay so flat. I suppose some more tries of two color knitting is in my future.

Posted by: kristen at December 3, 2006 4:08 PM

Wow, those are gorgeous! Nice work :) I can see why you're in love with them.

Posted by: Adam at December 3, 2006 4:14 PM

What a great sock, Steph! I love the subtle color varigations against the black yarn. Very classic-looking.

Posted by: Christina at December 3, 2006 4:54 PM

WOW!! Those are freakin' BEAUTIFUL socks...they LOOK like they were a special inspiration...imagine what special things will happen to the wearer..wow...and just think, it's still a whole 22 days until Christmas! Me thinks you're ahead of the game this year....

Posted by: Sandi at December 3, 2006 4:58 PM

Beautiful, Harlot. For fun, could we see the inside of that fair isle? I'm knitting my daughter the fair isle hat from knitty.com and I'm concerned I'm not carrying the colors along correctly -- feels a little more woven than knit.

Posted by: Susan at December 3, 2006 5:29 PM

I know they're fair isle, but does anyone else think they resemble mosaic? Really interesting pattern.

Posted by: Marie at December 3, 2006 6:04 PM

The toe. Dude, the toe.

Wow.

Posted by: Lee Ann at December 3, 2006 6:35 PM

Those socks are gorgeous! Man, you've got real talent that's for sure (like I'm sure you've never heard that before)!

Posted by: Shelley at December 3, 2006 7:04 PM

Trully stunning, must stop gawking at the socks. Feeling inspired. Lots of coffee and not sleep suddenly seems like a plan so that I can have some beautiful new socks too.

www.thevogelstitcher.blogspot.com

Posted by: shell at December 3, 2006 7:22 PM

Wow! First you make me want to go knit lace now you make me want to knit fancy socks even though I don't know how to do Fair Isle. I can't believe you'd want to do socks after the sock-marathon you just had. Have fun traveling again!

Posted by: Carolyn in NC at December 3, 2006 8:07 PM

Here I thought I didn't like Fair Isle.
I love the socks.

Posted by: Miss Scarlett at December 3, 2006 9:01 PM

*wolf whistle* ohhhh how beautiful!

Posted by: Kelly at December 3, 2006 9:12 PM

May I on your Christmas list? Or maybe just on the list to get your pattern for the beautiful socks?

Posted by: jennsquared at December 3, 2006 10:01 PM

wow. Just ... wow.

Posted by: Yvonne at December 3, 2006 10:06 PM

As I am now an experienced stepper-outter for the show (ask John Brinegar for a reference), feel free to request my assistance when preparing for your next appearance of Knitty Gritty. If you can stand to consider the possibility, that is. I'm sure they'll want you back.

Honestly, the place is a hoot. And they're going to love you. I wish you'd been there at the same time I was.

Also, the vegetarian catering on the set is really pretty good.

Posted by: Franklin at December 3, 2006 10:34 PM

You knit so beautifully... I just learned about "Reinforcing Sock Yarn" at (http://www.kyarns.com/lang-yarns-sock-reinforcing-yarn.html)
Have you ever used it? Do you recommend using it? I could not think of any better person to ask this question!!!

Posted by: Kumiko at December 3, 2006 10:52 PM

ahhh... not green...not green at all... (and beautiful and brilliant--did I mention that?)

Posted by: shanny mac at December 3, 2006 11:25 PM

ooo, I like! I can't wait for school to stop ruining my life, aka winter break, so i can sit around and watch harry potter and knit. it shall be grand.

ps. come to kansas.

Posted by: susan at December 4, 2006 12:32 AM

i love fair isle with unexpected yarn. really cool!

Posted by: lily at December 4, 2006 1:56 AM

Now THAT'S hot!!

~Suz~

Posted by: Suz at December 4, 2006 3:17 AM

They are lovely! An inspiration to all sock knitters.

Posted by: sharno at December 4, 2006 5:11 AM

Please please say that the pattern will be a Christmas gift to your readers?! Just gorgeous.

Posted by: Carol at December 4, 2006 7:16 AM

They are beautiful! If I am not on your Christmas list, would it be possible to get the pattern so that I can knit myself a pair of these beautiful socks?
Katherine

Posted by: Katherine at December 4, 2006 8:02 AM

You are so totally amazing! Can we beg for the pattern for a Christmas present, since we are way too many to beg for the sock itself.

Posted by: judy at December 4, 2006 9:07 AM

these are fabulous! i've been looking for a pattern and i just love what you've done. it's so pretty!

Posted by: eca at December 4, 2006 11:22 AM

How do I get on your Christmas list?

Posted by: Suzanne at December 4, 2006 1:28 PM

I love those socks but alas they are just to good for me,you've seen my blunnies,crap. Crap boots and amazing socks= not so good.I'll just keep wearing my crap socks. But I like gum.

Get me some L.A. gum would ya?
thanks.
Have tons of fun at all the parties.


cheers.

Posted by: denny Mcmillan at December 4, 2006 1:52 PM

I know you don't need another person on your Christmas list, but I would mug a knitter for beautiful socks like that (because I have been too chicken to fairisle).

*bats eyelashes*

Posted by: Seanna Lea at December 4, 2006 2:24 PM

Stephanie: Love these two-colored socks! But how do you do stranded knitting in the round?! Do you knit that section flat and seam up the back?

Just started 'Knitting Rules!' and loving it. : )

Posted by: caron at December 4, 2006 2:25 PM

1. Can't wait to see you on KG.
2. TiVo is my hero (see item 1 - it airs at 11am here. :( )
3. Your socks rock - I might even knit a pair cuff down if I were using that pattern (hint, hint).
4. Did I mention that I can't wait to see you on KG?

Posted by: Eva at December 4, 2006 3:17 PM

If I could make socks like these (and I don't even knit), I would never wear shoes. EVER.

Posted by: Dorothy at December 4, 2006 3:36 PM

Holy cow! What gorgeous socks! As Dorothy says, may I be on your Christmas list? If not, maybe you could post the pattern? I may be able to overcome my dislike of knitting socks to get my hands on that fabulous fair isle.

Posted by: Kerri at December 4, 2006 5:00 PM

what beautiful socks, What a lucky person they will be to get them as a Christmas gift!! Good luck with the show, not sure if I can get it here would have loved to see it.

Posted by: spinner Lynn at December 4, 2006 6:20 PM

WOW! But don't you thing they'd be prettier in dark green?? teehee, don't appear in south GA to shoot me...good luck with the taping, wish I could be a Knitster on that episode.

Posted by: Lisathemoml at December 4, 2006 8:27 PM

So, you ever need proof that you've lost it? Point to the pic of the series of green-freaking -"cut outs."

The rest of us will have to dress as chickens and dance a rooba to even come close *smile*

**Break a needle!**

Posted by: kmoya at December 4, 2006 11:34 PM

Normally, I'm not much of a pastel person, but the black that you added to that sock is OUTRAGEOUS! Good Job! Have a safe trip

Posted by: Chloe at December 5, 2006 12:12 PM

I know you're busy...may never get back to this end of a long list of comments!

I have attempted my FIRST EVER fair isle sock - copying from your picture of this wondrous sock. I didn't have black sock yarn so after 3rd rejected color attempt, decided to be BOLD and go pink. I don't know how to properly credit/confess inspiration when it includes staring at a masterpiece and openly trying to copy it! Do I just promise not to publish it and call it my own? lol I promise!

No luck finding someone with DIY channel & VCR yet. Damn it!

Posted by: laurie in maine at December 5, 2006 12:12 PM

Oh, wow, I love those socks! You're right, the contrast between the yarn and the black...it reminds me of stained glass. Gorgeous!

Posted by: Alix at December 5, 2006 1:04 PM

I agree with the comment above--the socks DO remind me of stained glass. I have always loved black with colors. I really liked the trim around the toe. Very nice touch.

Posted by: marianne the pediatrician at December 5, 2006 11:52 PM

Here I am convinced that good green sock yarn is impossible to find, and you find it and turn against it so quickly (time wise, I mean, not in stitch-count terms). I love the green socks, all 97 of them.
But the new socks are awful purty. They'd be even nicer in green.

Posted by: lanea at December 6, 2006 8:36 AM

Holy crap, Steph! Those are freakin' gorgeous! And here's me stuck in my stepmother's poncho…

Posted by: Lysa with a Y at December 7, 2006 8:29 PM

I lovelovelove that fair isle pattern. The socks look fabulous.

Posted by: stacey at December 8, 2006 1:06 PM

Hi, you are an inspiration! I am interested in the KNITTING OLYMPICS..sorry no website yet! My project will be knitting a lace shawl with a winter olympic theme. All I want for Christmas is circular needles(WITH A LONG CORD),yummy yarns, funky markers and more time : )
Hope Santa Baby is good to you!
Jackie

Posted by: Jackie C at December 8, 2006 4:53 PM

Actually, I enjoyed looking at all of your Green,
Green socks as I have a fondness for green. The fair isle socks are fabulous. I would not have thought of putting those colors together but WOW, what a great look! As happens frequently when I look at your blog, I am inspired to try my own variations. Thank You! (Those lucky people who are on you gift list.)

Posted by: Anne Mc at December 8, 2006 6:29 PM

I've more or less been doing nothing worth mentioning, but eh. My life's been really bland today. I don't care. I've just been letting everything happen without me these days. That's how it is.

Posted by: Sten44075 at February 3, 2007 10:09 AM

I've just been hanging out not getting anything done. What can I say? I've basically been doing nothing worth mentioning, but pfft. Not that it matters. Pretty much nothing exciting happening to speak of. I haven't been up to much these days.

Posted by: Sten87405 at February 24, 2007 2:40 PM

I've just been staying at home waiting for something to happen. Whatever. Not much on my mind lately. I guess it doesn't bother me.

Posted by: Sten89881 at February 24, 2007 10:17 PM

I haven't gotten anything done today. I feel like a fog, but what can I say? I've just been letting everything wash over me lately, not that it matters. Shrug.

Posted by: Sten4446 at February 25, 2007 12:33 AM

I feel like an empty room, but eh. Nothing seems worth doing. I haven't gotten much done today.

Posted by: Sten65891 at March 1, 2007 1:22 PM