The socks were to be started during the first official Strictly Come Dancing show on the 22nd of October and knit whilst watching episodes of the show on a Saturday and Sunday or It Takes Two with Zoe Ball on weeknights. Ali does encourage rule bending though, and there's a lot of it going on this year, though I must say that I haven't bent the rules at all, I've only knit these socks whilst watching Strictly or It Takes Two.
I've used Elm Tree Yarns in the Blue Fairy colourway. It's on a stellina base, though you can't really see it in these photos, so there's lots of sparkle, essential for anything to do with Strictly. It's a blue and lemon colourway, though there's the odd pink blush here and there too, so pretty.
I've followed the pattern exactly, though I did have my reservations. The cuff consists of more rows than I usually knit and the leg seemed to go on forever, I very nearly decided to miss one pattern repeat but I'm so glad I didn't as they've turned out to be a fantastic fit.
It's been a fun knitalong to be involved with and I've now got another beautiful pair of socks to add to my sock drawer.
Speaking of Strictly Come Dancing, I'm loving it this year. I wasn't sure I was going to as I didn't know who half of the contestants were when they were announced but I think they've got a really good mix and some great dancers. We're coming to the end of the series now and I'd like to see either Stacey or Joe win. They haven't got any dance experience at all, unlike others, and you can really see the improvement in both of them from week to week. How about you, do you watch Strictly and do you have a favourite?
I'm with you on Strictly this year, both Stacey and Joe have done so well. Love your socks.
ReplyDeleteI'm hoping that one of them will win.
DeleteDear Jo
ReplyDeleteI enjoy Strictly too, though couldn't knit a pair of socks (I can only do knit stitch!) I much prefer watching those without much experience as I love to see the (usually) massive improvement. If someone starts off really good, there's nowhere for them to go (and I do get a bit bored knowing they are always going to be good!) (I'm championing Joe and Stacey too).
Best wishes
Ellie
The great thing about knitting a plain pair of socks in the round is that you only knit round and round and it comes out in stocking stitch without having to purl. You do need to purl the rib though. I think most people are of the same mind, they prefer to watch a person's improvement rather than knowing they're going to be good right from the offset. I think the dance off last week highlighted this.
DeleteLovely socks, although how you can knit a pattern like that and still watch telly is amazing. I love watching Strictly and agree with you both Stacey and especially Joe have improved no end, would be good to see one of them win. We are an hour ahead of course so it gives me time to organise dinner before the show as its on early. xcx
ReplyDeleteThe pattern is surprisingly easy. I like a pattern which has a bit of interest in it but isn't overly complicated, perfect for watching TV at the same time. I really hope that either Stacey of Joe wins.
DeleteLove your socks, they came out perfect :-) I don't watch Strictly, in fact the only time i watch tv is Friday and Saturday night, when Mark is away during the week it is very rare i even put the tv on. But i have loved seeing everyone's socks!
ReplyDeleteI'm really pleased that I chose this pattern, it was really enjoyable to knit. Strictly is one of those programmes which the whole family can sit down together and watch, Mick watches it with me.
DeleteHaven't watched strictly, so can't weight in on that. Hope you choices win. LOVE your socks, such a pretty pattern and yarn. One of these days I'm going to try my hand at knitting socks, one of these days. I've been saying that for far too long. They always look so cute and comfy and I love wool socks.
ReplyDeleteSandy's Space
I'm so pleased that I started knitting socks, they're probably my favourite thing to knit and they keep my feet toasty warm in winter.
DeleteLovely socks! One of these days I'll join some sort of knit-a-long...one that's linked to a tv program sounds like such fun as you can talk about both the knit and the show.
ReplyDeleteThere's so many knitalongs on podcasts and they're such fun to join in with. I don't have a local knitting group so podcasts and groups on Ravelry are brilliant for me.
DeleteI used to watch it, but the last few years, since my shifts changed to afternoon and weekend evenings, I've haven't seen it much at all. If any of the residents watch it ( they all have a TV in their rooms, though most don't use them ) I get to catch a glimpse when I'm assisting with their care needs
ReplyDeleteI love your latest pair of socks, it's a lovely design :) x
It's a shame that you don't often get to catch it, I think it's one of the few feel good shows that's left on the TV. I'm really pleased with the socks, they fit like a glove.
DeleteLove the socks, Jo. I'm with you - Stacey or Joe to win Strictly this year! :o)
ReplyDeleteI usually have a clear cut favourite but I wouldn't mind either Stacey or Joe winning, I think they've both improved so much and I enjoy watching them both each week.
DeleteI love Strictly.I also would like Joe or Stacey to win.Probably Stacey as she is with Kevin.Our granddaughters (11 and 13) are with us that evening so that will add to the final.Pantomime in the afternoon,tea out ,then Strictly and an overnight stay.Should be good.
ReplyDeleteI hadn't thought about that but Kevin's been runner up so often that it would be nice for him to win, I think it's his time this year. What a lovely day you're going to have, it's a long time since I've been to the Pantomime.
DeleteYour cha cha chevron socks are beautiful!!! i'll have to save that pattern to my Ravelry hopes
ReplyDeleteI've really enjoyed knitting this pattern, it's definitely one I can see me knitting again.
DeleteAnother great pair of socks! I love Strictly but this year it's been difficult to watch as I've been in Australia and have only been able to watch the dance clips. I'm back now and will enjoy the last few weeks, I think Kevin could do with a win, he comes up with some great choreography. x
ReplyDeleteI hope you had a lovely time in Australia, worth missing Strictly for I think. At least you'll be able to enjoy the final.
DeleteThose socks look so soft and strokeable! I’d like Stacey to win if only for Kevin’s sake. He’s such a good teacher and always seems to be the bridesmaid!
ReplyDeleteI think Kevin's been the runner up enough times now, it's time he won so I agree with you.
DeletePretty socks!
ReplyDeleteThat is a UK show. So we don't get it here.
Enjoy!!!!
🎄✨🎄
I think you get Dancing With the Stars instead which is quite similar.
DeleteI'm with you on strictly, Stacey or Joe to win.
ReplyDeleteGreat new socks.
I saw you commented on Hidden Jem blog that you would like to make Christmas cake but done like to eat it. What about making one as a gift, you get the smell and then the satisfaction of giving a homemade gift. You could send it to me, I cant get enough of the stuff lol.
Have a lovely weekend xxxx
Ha ha. The only thing with making edible gifts is that I'd want to try it first to make sure it tasted good. That's never going to happen with Christmas cake, Christmas pudding or mince pies. I can't even get Mick in on the act as he doesn't like them either.
DeleteI used to watch it but didn't bother this series as I didn't recognise any of the contestants. Beautiful socks Jo the name made me smile and such a beautiful colourway.
ReplyDeleteI was in two minds about watching this series as I didn't recognise many of the celebrities either but it's turned out to be one of the most enjoyable series I've watched.
DeleteThese socks are a lovely colourway. Mum's busy knitting some baby clothes for a friend of mine who's due near Christmas :)
ReplyDeleteIt's such a pretty colour. I love knitting baby clothes, they knit up so quickly and are always so cute.
DeleteI do like these socks and the colours are great.
ReplyDeleteI always enjoy watching Strictly, and it's been a great series this year. I think Stacey and Joe have done so well especially when you take into account they are not singers, dancers etc.
But I really have enjoyed it all, especially too the professional dancers when they do their routines.
The music from Dave Arch band and singers has been first class and the choreography too.
It's a hit show :)
All the best Jan
I think you're right about every aspect, the whole thing is so good, and this year especially, it's such a great series. I'm looking forward to watching the Christmas special too with faces we've seen in previous series.
DeleteI could do with those lovely warm looking socks right now! I'm hoping Joe wins!xxx
ReplyDeleteIt's warmed up a bit here. I think Joe and Stacey are both popular.
DeleteI'm really enjoying viewing your socks from this year after being away from the blogosphere for a while. Such pretty and beautiful work. They look so soft and cosy.
ReplyDeleteIt's nice to see you blogging again. I'm such a big fan of hand knitted socks, I don't wear anything else now.
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