I’m really excited about this new sock yarn from the Fibre Co. At the beginning of the year I challenged myself to knit a pair of socks a month. So far I have done 9 and should really get going with my 10th pair! Well inspiration awaits in the form of Amble!

Amble is a 4ply sock yarn blend of merino, alpaca and recycled nylon making it more of an eco-friendly choice compared to some other sock yarns. Unlike some sock yarns the merino and alpaca have been treated using the ‘easy-wash’ process. This makes the yarn machine washable without using the hazardous chemicals and chlorine that are often used in producing machine-washable wools. The wool and alpaca fibres are treated with eco-friendly oxidants to remove the scales that ordinarily cause wool and alpaca to shrink when washed by machine. These oxidants are certified by REACH, Oeko-tex and ZDCH (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemical) standards.

Also Amble contains recycled nylon which gives the yarn strength and durability. The nylon they use comes from the leftover industrial waste from producing nylon. This keeps what would normally be a waste product out of landfill and uses less resources like water and fossil fuels than virgin nylon would.

We have introduced all 12 colours from the range. The yarn is soft, plump but also sturdy and durable. I can see this being a good go to for not just socks but also garments that take a little more wear. Children’s clothes for example that might be worn with a bit more energy.

Yarn weight: 4ply/Fingering, 100g skiens
Fibre: 70% Easy-wash Merino wool, 20% Easy-wash alpaca, 10% recycled nylon.
Length: 325 m (355 yd) per 100 g hank
Tension / Gauge: 32 sts per 10 cm (4 in)
Needle size: 2.5mm (US 1.5)
Care: Machine wash on wool cycle or hand wash at 30C / 86F. Dry flat. Made in Peru

Now we have taken a look at Amble, let’s take a look at some sock inspiration!

One Sock (ravelry link) by Kate Atherley. With the launch of Amble Kate Atherley has designed the perfect simple sock. This sock is made to fit every foot, with lots of opportunities to customise the fit and design. The pattern also comes with the One Sock Guidebook, a resource that walks makers through the process of knitting beautiful socks that fit.

Pebbles & Pathways Socks (ravelry link) by Marceline Smith. This toe up sock has a simple to remember pattern repeat of a delicate cable running either side of the foot. I particularly like the reversed stocking stitch texture along the front of the foot. I think it will show off some of the more heathered Amble colours.

Stelliferous Socks (ravelry link) by Francoise Danoy. If something a little more complex is your thing try this pair by Francoise Danoy. A lively combination of cables, twisted stitches, laces and bobbles make for a pretty sock with wow factor.

Footsie (ravelry link) by Libby Jonson. I’m often looking for textured socks that give me a bit more than a plain one, but still not too complicated or fussy. These fit the bill perfectly. Worked from the top down with an all over texture that even covers the heel flap.