The Essential Materials You Need to Crochet Socks

From the ideal yarn to the right kind of needles, discover everything you need to start crocheting

Crochet is certainly having a moment right now. From dolls to clothes to home decor, this craft gives you the flexibility to create anything and it's become a favorite way to start out in the world of embroidery.

A favorite design among crocheters, socks are a simple item with a degree of difficulty that makes them suitable for both beginners and pros. Plus, they're ideal for keeping cozy.

If you’re about to embark on a crochet sock project and you’re worried about which materials you’re going to need, this list of all the basic crochet materials by Nordic-style crochet designer and yarnbomber, Alicia Recio (@Alimaravillas) is just what you’re looking for.

Jot them down, make sure you’ve got everything, then you’re ready to start!

Why crochet is an ideal medium for any project

As we said earlier, crochet is great for giving free rein to your creativity, enabling you to craft any project you like. It’s super easy to get started with your favorite hook and yarn, and there are no costly processes involved.

Flat knitting allows you to create all kinds of garments, including jumpers, tops, blankets, and vests. While circular knitting means you can add volume and make all kinds of figures, such as the popular amigurumi characters from Japan.

Similarly, crochet can be a great way to get into tapestry, one of the most ancient forms of weaving that allows you to create all kinds of patterns using a grid of different colors.

The basic tools and materials to crochet socks

You need the following materials to start on your sock crochet project:

Yarn

Yarn is the fundamental material you can’t do without. Alicia recommends using yarns specifically designed for socks. They normally have a particular composition, such as polyamide and synthetic materials, which make the finished product more durable.

The main fibers used to make socks are:

Merino wool
Merino wool comes from merino sheep. Unlike other wools, it’s very soft to touch and doesn’t produce that characteristic itchiness. It also prevents odors because it is naturally anti-bacterial, repels moisture, and regulates temperature.

Superwash wool
Superwash wool is subject to a chemical process that makes it washing machine-safe. This is achieved thanks to two kinds of treatment. The first is an acid bath that removes any “scales” and the second involves covering the yarn in a polymer that prevents these scales from joining together and shrinking.

Fingering wool
This thinner wool tends to be more comfortable for walking, due to its fineness. As Alicia explains, because crochet is a form of weaving that uses knots, fingering wool is more pleasant to wear: the little knots it creates are super fine.

Yarns are normally sold in two formats:

Skeins of wool
These come on a skein that you have to unwind and then rewind into a ball before starting to crochet. You can use a ball winder to help you.

Balls of wool
This form is ready for you to start working (because it’s already in a ball).

Hooks

You also need hooks to crochet. Their particular shape contrasts with traditional sock knitting needles. Alicia recommends using the following:

A crochet hook
Fundamental for any crochet project, this kind of needle has a hook on the end. You can buy them in metal, plastic, or wood. Alicia recommends using Tulip needles.

The hook size also varies. For this kind of project, we recommend using crochet hooks ranging between the following sizes:

- 2.75mm
- 3mm
- 3.25mm
- 3.50mm

Elasticated thread

While it isn’t a common crochet material, elasticated thread is essential for reinforcing socks, and provides a professional quality finish.

Counting rings

These little rings are very important. You insert them in the first stitch to help identify the start of each row. Remember to use these when you’re working with stitches that can get lost.

Extra tools

Sewing needle
Although this won’t be your main tool, Alicia recommends always having a sewing needle to hand.

Ruler
You also need a ruler or a tape measure when starting your project. It allows you to measure every step of the process, from the sample to the tension. It can also help you measure around your foot to get the right size.

Scissors
A pair of scissors is very useful for trimming away loose ends.

Work bag
Finally, Alicia recommends always using a work bag (any size) to keep everything from your hooks to the current project you’re working on in one place. They’re available from all good haberdasheries.

If you're ready to get started and want to learn more, sign up for Alicia’s course, Design and Stitching of Crochet Socks, to start making your own designs and to learn more about this popular embroidery technique.
Plus, to see more guides on essential materials for your creative projects, check out the Materials tag on the blog.

English version by @studiogaunt.

You may also like:

- What is Crochet?
- What is Tapestry? The Definitive Crochet Technique
- 5 Websites for 100s of Free Crochet and Knitting Patterns
- Creating Garments Using Crochet, course by Alicia Recio Rodríguez