Sock Machines Everywhere

I just got back from an amazing conference. The Circular Sock Machine conference was held in Nashville, Indiana and I was able to go with Deb and Pete Oswald and friends Sharon and Jan.


Deb and Pete know all there is to know about the Gearhart machine and that is what I have. Sharon owns an alpaca farm and spins and knits as much alpaca fiber as she can and Jan knows how to take apart and repair machines as well as knit on them. There were so many classes on using sock machines at the conference that my head was hurting from all the stuff I tried to cram into it! This is a picture of the room full of everyone's sock machines. There were all different kinds of sock machines and some for sale too.

I was sorely tempted to buy another but I resisted and I just bought some accessories and a 60 slot cylinder that fits my machine. I'll have to swap it out when I want to use it but Pete and Deb showed me how so I should be able to do that.


I did actually make two pairs of ankle socks while at the conference. Most people didn't really knit actual socks but just tried out what they learned in the classes. Many didn't know how to use their machines and there were a few "first socks". I am so lucky that I live near Deb and Pete and that we get together regularly. I have to say I still can't use my ribber without help but I'm sure I'll get that down soon.

It was a fun filled week of socks, socks and more socks! Oh, and I even worked on a hand knit sock while riding in the car! This is Toe to Cuff Lace Rib Socks by Heartstrings Patterns. I'm teaching a class at Double Ewe on it and need to finish soon so it can be a display sock.