The Top 10 Sock Knitting Books Every Knitter Should Own
Whether you're a sock-knitting newbie or a seasoned pro with a well-worn sock drawer, there's always something new to learn or be inspired by when it comes to knitting socks. From mastering heel turns and cast-ons to trying new textures, constructions and colorwork, the right book can take your sock knitting to the next level.
Here are 10 of the best sock knitting books that every knitter should have on their shelf (or tucked into their project bag).
#1 Getting Started Knitting Socks by Ann Budd
A true beginner-friendly classic, this book offers clear, step-by-step instructions for basic top-down sock construction. If you’re new to sock knitting, Ann Budd walks you through every stitch with confidence.
💡 Why it’s great: Multiple sizes and yarn weights, plus excellent diagrams.
#2 Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch
This is a pattern book and a sock formula bible. Choose your stitch pattern, yarn, and size. Then, follow the charts to create custom socks that fit beautifully.
💡 Why it’s great: Endless combinations and an empowering design framework.
#3 The Ultimate Sock Book by Vogue Knitting
A stylish collection of classic and contemporary sock patterns curated from Vogue Knitting’s archives. Great for knitters who want fashion-forward socks or something a little different.
💡 Why it’s great: Beautiful photography and a wide range of techniques.
#4 The Sock Knitter’s Handbook by Charlene Schurch & Beth Parrott
A practical, in-depth reference guide for sock knitters. Includes techniques for different heels, toes, cast-ons and bind-offs. Plus, tips for getting the perfect fit.
💡 Why it’s great: It’s like a troubleshooting manual and idea book in one.
#5 Operation Sock Drawer by The Knitmore Girls (Jasmin Canty & Gigi Knitmore)
Part eye candy, part inspiration and part community love letter, this book is filled with colorful, modern sock patterns that bring joy to your needles (+ you).
💡 Why it’s great: Great for adding variety and color to your hand-knit sock drawer.
#6 Socks from the Toe Up by Wendy D. Johnson
If you’re curious about toe-up sock construction, Wendy is your go-to guide. This book has clear instructions, multiple heel options and tons of beautiful patterns.
💡 Why it’s great: No more guessing when to start the toe — knit and try on, knit and try on!
#7 Sock Architecture by Lara Neel
This book dives deep into the anatomy of socks, offering both top-down and toe-up constructions for a variety of heels and toes. If you love customizing your fit, this one’s for you.
💡 Why it’s great: A must-have for adventurous or design-minded sock knitters.
#8 More Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch
The follow-up to the original Sensational book, this one adds even more stitch patterns and design options to your sock arsenal.
💡 Why it’s great: Makes designing socks feel approachable.
#9. 52 Weeks of Socks by Laine Publishing
A beautifully curated collection of modern, high-style sock patterns from international designers. This coffee table–worthy book is pure inspiration.
💡 Why it’s great: One of the most aspirational and beautiful sock books out there.
#11 The Sock Project: Colorful, Cozy Handmade Socks from Beginning to End by Summer Lee
Bright, bold and beginner-friendly, The Sock Project is perfect for anyone who wants to learn to knit socks and have fun doing it. Summer Lee’s vibrant aesthetic and inclusive approach to sock knitting make this book feel like a pep talk in pattern form. She walks you through multiple styles, while encouraging knitters to embrace color, playfulness and creativity.
💡 Why it’s great: Approachable patterns, size-inclusive designs and the confidence boost every knitter needs to start (or grow) their sock journey.
🧦 Bonus: The book includes tips on customizing colors and making your socks your own. Plusa a mix of techniques that help you grow your skills sock by sock.
Which of these do you own or want to read?
Let me know in the comments, or tell me your all-time favorite sock pattern book!
🧦 Happy sock knitting!