My latest sample knit is off the needles, washed, blocked, and on its way to its new home. So now I can be a little selfish again. I've started knitting a second pair of Paraphernalia socks last week for my evening class knitting. You're probably wondering if I ever pay attention in class, aren't you? Anyway, I cast on for a second pair of these socks (they're for me this time) in a skein of Malabrigo Sock that I've had for a while. I really love this color but have heard some scary things about socks in Malabrigo. Like, you walk in them for two seconds and your toes pop out. Or something like that. Since I've started these socks I've been thinking about reinforcing the heel and toe. But how to do that is the problem. I've never done that before and am not really sure about the best way to go about doing something like that. So of course I ask the people I trust.
What would you do? Have you ever had this problem with Mal Sock? Do you normally reinforce heels/toes of loosely spun yarn?
Wow, it's like you're reading my mind! I was just thinking about buying a skein of Malabrigo Sock today, and I had no idea people had bad experiences with them! I'll be listening closely to what others have to say here...
ReplyDeleteI've not had the pleasure of using Malabrigo sock, but use a nylon thread (same or close in color) held with your yarn to reinforce. You can actually buy it at stores like Hancocks Fabrics or JoAnns in addition to yarn shops.
ReplyDeleteMy Malabrigo socks have held up okay, but I've only worn them around the house (not in shoes). In the past I've used nylon-blend sewing thread as a carry-along to reinforce heels and toes as a cheap and widely-available solution with good results. I haven't tried it with Malabrigo. Some people also go down a needle size or two for heels and toes (so they are tighter knit). Keep us posted on what you decide! I'm curious.
ReplyDeleteEeek, I haven't heard that about Mal Sock! I have a pair I've been working on for ages (not because of the yarn, just the way it worked out) but haven't finished, so haven't worn them. I hope my toes won't pop out of them!
ReplyDeleteNylon thread does work very well, I've heard, but to be honest I don't make socks unless they have nylon content in them anymore. OR if I know they hold up well even sans nylon. I've never ever gotten a hole in my socks and I've been wearing a few for over two years now!
Lina
photoknitdog.com
I have a couple of pairs of malabrigo socks and they're just fine. I've worn them in the house, in shoes, etc, etc. The only thing is that the heels wore out of one pair because I made pair of cookie a socks with yo's in the heel flap (seriously? I should have known...) and they do fuzz up a bit, especially if you wash them in the machine. But they only get softer with wash and wear.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a nice cable pattern and they are a great colour!
ReplyDeleteI haven't actually used Mal for socks (not on purpose -just haven't knit Mal socks yet). I have heard that they fuzz up rather quickly.
ReplyDeleteI would use a nylon thread or loosely plied yarn to reinforce the heel and toe, if you are concerned about it.
The color is beautiful!
I love the yarn you picked!
ReplyDeleteI don't know if this comment will actually help, but it is a cheerful note to let you know that you've won the owl stitch markers! Please e-mail me your address at allisonlgray AT gmail DOT com so I can put your goodies in the mail :) Congrats!
ReplyDeleteI wish I could help you.
ReplyDeleteI'm actually working on my first pair of socks myself.
If you ever find the answer, maybe I can hit you up with an email for some help when I'm at the heel and the toe part.
Happy sock knitting!
Love the green yarn you've used!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful sock! I've never used malabrigio sock or reinforced a toe but I've heard that people either knit with dental floss held with their yarn or just use different yarn for the heels and toes. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteI have knitted many a socks with Malabrigo sock yarn and have never had any issues with them wearing out and no toes poking through. I always use the Eye of Partridge heel on my socks and that seems to be a very strong heel. I am not sure about the reinforced toe, but I am betting if when you have completed the kitchener stitch to close the toe, you could use a little extra yardage and run it through the stitched, from the inside for a little extra strength.
ReplyDeleteI have only knitted one pair of socks and it was with Malabrigo sock. I absolutely love them. They are very soft, comfy and warm. I have worn them and worn them, and washed and dried them in the washer and dryer and was just thinking to myself the other day how very pleased at how well they are holding up. I have been displeased with the worsted weight pilling and being far too loosely spun, but not so at all with the sock weight. Totally recommend this yarn for socks, although a little pricey. IMHO~Jan
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