Why would you want to knit your own socks?

I have been asked that question so often recently, and often with a note of laughter in the tone too. Kel here, and a little lost for words for the answer. What can I say? 
Those that do knit their own socks seem to find it addictive.
There is so much beautiful yarn out there for sock knitters: self-striping, textured, colourchanging, lush and soft.
I've seen handknit socks that absolutely defy our idea of bunched up, chunky, uncomfortable handknit socks that we may have seen in our youth. 

So surely the question is why not knit socks?
Um, well, I've heard it's hard.
Four needles, are you kidding me? How do you even begin?
This heel turning business. It's hard. Everyone says so.

 

I'm taking a series of 3 classes to learn this skill (essential skill, surely?). I should have done two of the three lessons by now, but the volcanic ash held up the teacher from starting that first week, so we have only done one. The class is at The Make Lounge for those in London, but a skilled friend and a good pattern, or a search through the interwebs for videos and patterns will offer a good alternative. This method starts from the ankle ribbing and works down.

Let me reassure you that knitting with four needles is not as scary is it looks at all. At any given moment it is just like knitting with two needles and you just ignore the other two. My teacher suggests bamboo needles, as they grip a little better and don't slide out of your stitches as easily. This week we cast on, did the ribbing and started on the stockinette.

 
 This is my homework, to work it down as far as where the heel will be. Tomorrow we'll be turning the heel and then next week we'll shape the toe. I'll be sure and show you the finished product! 

PS I've already ordered wool for the next part.

xx

Comments

[Carmen]

Ooooh I watch with interest! As someone who can't knit a stitch but would love to be able to and also someone who has somewhat of an obsession with new socks I can TOTALLY understand why you would want to knit them :P

[Eleanor]

Handknit socks, I believe, are now the most beautiful they have ever been in the history of socks. There will be no stopping you now.
Wonderful post, bringing on the sock love.
E
xx

[Mandy]

When I was a kid I remember my Mum knit me some socks with a striped rainbow at the cuff... I wore them with pride (it was the 1970's!) Looking forward to seeing how your socks develop ;)

[Anne]

You could always use one needle for circular knitting (don't know what they're called)
You don't need a reason anyway do you. I mean if it's something you enjoy you just do it. I made a couple of fabric birds a few months ago and when I showed them to someone she said 'what are you going to do with them?' :-/ Maybe I've got this crafting lark all wrong I didn't realise I needed to do anything with them LOL
Good luck with the socks.
Anne xx

[Anne]

PS don't be at a loss as to what to say, next time just answer with 'Why not?' hehe
Anne xx