This part of the scheme is a little whimsical, and a little practical. For the sake of fun and cheer, we’re looking to outfit Laurie with a collection of “Odd Socks (or Mitts) of Love”. What we would like any one person to do is knit or crochet, ONE sock or mitten. Depending on people’s choices, there may or may not be anything close to a matching pair, but that can be the fun of it.
Why single socks/mitts? Well, it's a bit silly, just to cheer up. But still useful, practical, and warm (like a hug!). If they're not needed, they can be re-gifted, re-purposed, or put away for when they are, and if there aren't any matched pairs to start with, you don't really feel bad about getting rid of an "odd" one when its mate wears out or gets lost. If they're absolutely unwearable, they can be hung by the chimney with care come holidays! And doing just one means no one person has to spend a huge amount of time, NOR will anyone suffer from Second Sock Syndrome.
To make sure each item is wearable, just some simple suggestions:
1. Use a fairly straightforward stitch pattern, so no one item looks REALLY out of place (like a lacy stocking amongst 15 stockinette boot socks). Plain stockinette, simple ribbing of various combos, or a stitch pattern that makes a fairly small repeat would be great. We also want you to be able to knit them quickly, I’d love to get things to her in a few weeks, not 4 months like the afghan.
2. We don’t know an exact shoe or glove size, so go for an “average” womens’ foot - a sock foot 8 to 9 inches in length would probably fit between size 6 and 9. Socks are pretty forgiving, and also, Laurie has a partner, grown kids and grandkids - they’ll fit someone, someday. Or be nice Christmas decorations if not!
3. Use a sock-weight yarn rather than a worsted or thicker. Related to 1, just so all the items are consistent for wearability. One big bulky sock amongst a bunch of trimmer ones would be really odd-out.
4. Colour: Have fun with this. Like the flowers, the brighter and cheerier the better. Use up scraps. Stripes, or colourwork in crazy colours would be fun. Be unique! This is a “we’re thinking of you and want you to be happy” project, not a fashion wardrobe addition.
5. It would be nice if everyone could include a tag or small notecard, hole-punched and attached to their sock/mitt with a scrap of yarn. Write a bit if you want, or just sign your Rav name if you don’t.
I am working on finding a Victoria, BC contact who would be willing to receive items to hand over, as I'm not quite sure I'm comfortable handing out Laurie's address without her OK, so stay tuned for more details on that.
