In my mind, socks are the perfect travel project. They’re easy to pack into a purse, they work up quick, and they’re a functional project once you’re done! Besides, trips always have a surprising amount of downtime, such as when you’re sitting in the airport or bus station, or waiting in line to get where you want, and having a little knitting project makes time fly by. For my most recent trip, I decided to finally tackle this project that has been in my Ravelry queue for a while.

• 3/4 skein of Mineville Wool Project Merino Nylon 2Ply Sock – a fingering weight (1) yarn (colour A: 1034)
• Size 2 (2.75mm) knitting needles (I used ChiaoGoo 23cm circulars)

Pattern by Olivia at This Handmade Life

Maybe I’m crazy, but I feel like every time I’ve tried to use this yarn in the past, the simplicity of the yellow gets washed out by the pattern I’ve picked. I always end up frogging those projects, because they don’t seem quite right. Since then, I’ve been looking for a detailed lacy pattern to properly show off the yarn, and I feel like I’ve finally found it. I loved the simple repeat of these socks, and it was perfect for stashing in my purse as I explored New York City.

I’m firmly back on the 9” circular train, as I had forgotten how much easier it is to work in the round rather than having to magic loop halfway through each round. I did worry a little bit about losing stitches every time I threw the WIP in my purse, but to my surprise, that never happened. I would recommend needle stoppers though, just to have more confidence in having the ultimate portable purse project. The only downside was that I forgot to pack an embroidery needle with my travel kit, so getting to the toe and trying to use the Kitchener Stitch without a needle for sewing was an absolute nightmare. It technically is possible to sew by threading each stitch by hand, but I would never recommend this strategy to anyone.

It was so nice to have a knitting project to keep me company as I waited for the Staten Island Ferry, or went people watching in Central Park, and will definitely be bringing a sock project on future travels. I will make sure to bring an embroidery needle though, or at least find a yarn store where I can buy them.

Until next time, happy crafting!