Sock Techniques 1 & 2
Lucy Neatby (Tradewind Knits)
DVDs/$29CAN each
There's something for every knitter in Lucy Neatby's latest instructional DVDs, Sock Techniques 1 & 2. While the subtitle for both could be Cool Socks, Warm Feet: Live on Stage, the lessons on these disks are by no means mere add-ons to that successful book. While many videos are structured as watch-and-learn demonstrations, Neatby offers a visual lesson library that's easily accessed by topic.
Highlights of Sock Techniques 1 include an excellent explanation of sock elements and lengthy demonstrations of various cast ons and cast offs—enough to keep a knitter busy well beyond sock projects; Neatby's thorough treatment of the 'toe chimney', a technique borrowed from machine knitters, is a must for anyone who has ever struggled to graft a toe; and for those who wonder toe up or top down, a nice pro and con section on making that choice. Also very valuable is Neatby's demo of socks on five double-pointed needles vs one or two circulars.
Sock Essentials 2 features a wealth of specific techniques that ensure you'll be burning your way through mounds of sock wool. Detailed lessons on short rowing, tubular cast ons and cast offs, as well as specialised heels and toes are the go. The miscellaneous section is a treasure trove—look for the fab section on 'sutures'.
Both DVDs include Neatby's gallery of patterns (not just her beautiful socks), and while it's clearly a marketing point, I thoroughly enjoyed seeing detailed shots and entertaining explanations of each project.
—Melissa Deutsch Scott