Why Sock Yarn Might Be Your New Favorite

While I enjoy all types of yarn—from thread weight to chunky blanket yarn—I have a special fondness for sock yarn. Not only is the weight a dream to work with, but the color variations are practically endless. From soft tonal blends to wild hand-dyed speckles, sock yarn offers an explosion of creativity in every skein.

One of the best things about sock yarn is its practicality. A single skein (usually around 100 grams or 400 yards) is enough to make a full pair of socks. So, if you find yourself in a local yarn shop and can’t justify splurging on a sweater quantity, a skein of sock yarn is often within budget. Most skeins cost between $13 and $20, though prices can vary based on fiber content and whether it’s hand-dyed.

I almost always leave a yarn shop with one of these beautiful hanks tucked into my bag.

More Than Just Socks

Here’s the secret: sock yarn isn’t just for socks. In fact, I’ve used it for shawls, scarves, gloves, baby garments, and even laceweight projects when I want a little extra body or durability. Because sock yarn often contains a blend of fibers—usually superwash wool mixed with nylon, spandex, or even bamboo—it’s both soft and strong. That little bit of nylon or spandex gives it the stretch and durability needed for socks, but it also makes it a great choice for any project that gets a lot of wear.

There are no rules that say you have to knit socks with sock yarn!

Easy to Find and Lovely to Use

You can find sock yarn almost anywhere—from big-box craft stores to cozy local yarn shops. Some of the prettiest hand-dyed skeins I’ve seen are sock yarns, and indie dyers love to work with it because it takes color so beautifully.

Another thing I adore about sock yarn? Once it’s wound into a cake, it’s compact and portable. I often tuck a small sock yarn project into my purse to bring along to doctor’s appointments or road trips. It takes up very little space and makes the wait time fly by.

Give Sock Yarn a Try

So the next time you’re browsing your favorite yarn store—or scrolling through Etsy or Ravelry—take another look at the sock yarn shelf. Whether you’re in the mood to knit an actual pair of socks, or just want a soft, strong, and colorful yarn for your next project, sock yarn might just become your new go-to.

Trust me—it’s worth it.