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Socktober 2026 – How to Cast On with Self Striping Yarn

Oct 2, 2026 · Leave a Comment

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First, a note on sizing… I’m including 3 stitch counts to fit Small/Narrow (Medium/Standard, Large/Wide) ankles and feet, based on stitch gauge of 8-8.5 sts per inch (2.5cm).

If you’re a seasoned sock knitter, you’ll know where you want to start. If this is a new adventure for you and you don’t know what size to knit, I recommend Medium unless you know your feet to be Narrow or Wide.

I’m using the Twisted German Cast On. It’s a bit stretchier than a Long Tail and leaves an extra bit of yarn along the top edge, which I’m using as a fun contrast detail for the cuff.

Starting with Self-Striping Yarn

Start by unraveling some yarn to locate the initial colors. I didn’t have enough blue to make it across the cast on, so I’m starting between the orange and the red.

Lay the yarn across the needle, as close to the color change as you can.

While you cast on the stitches, you’ll see one color under the needles, and the other color forming stitches on the needle. Fun!

Cast on a total of 56 (64, 72) stitches.

For Reference: Small (Medium, Large)

Join to work in the Round & Begin 1×1 Rib {k1,p1}

Continue 1×1 Ribbing until desired length

I worked 16 rounds and stopped before the next color change.

How fun is that little bit of orange at the top edge! I love it. Just a little peek of color without extra ends to weave in.

See you soon for the Leg Pattern… (teaser) it matches up with the 1×1 rib 🙂

Happy Knitting ~Lisa

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