Transform Stockings Into Cozy Socks: A Diy Guide

Making socks out of stockings is a quick and easy DIY project. It can be done by cutting the bottoms off a pair of stockings, with the height of the cut depending on your desired sock length. You can also make socks from scratch using a sewing machine and a sock sewing pattern. This method requires more time and materials but allows for more customisation.

Cut the bottoms off tights to make socks

If you have a pair of tights with a run, a stain, or something else that makes them unwearable, you can turn them into a pair of socks. This is a quick and easy DIY project that will allow you to keep wearing your favourite tights in a different form.

To get started, grab a pair of scissors and cut the bottoms off of your tights. You can cut them to your desired length, depending on whether you want tall socks or shorter ones. If you want to make tall socks, cut the tights right under the run.

After cutting, try on your new socks and enjoy their fancy look. However, be aware that they might roll a bit, so you can fold them over to prevent this.

Use zig-zag stitch for stretchy fabric

When making socks out of stockings, you will need to use a stretchy fabric. If you are using a basic sewing machine, a zig-zag stitch is a great choice for sewing seams. The zig-zag stitch is naturally stretchy and will allow your fabric to stretch and move without popping your seams.

To use the zig-zag stitch, you will need to adjust the settings on your sewing machine. Play around with the stitch width and length to minimise the appearance of the stitches on the outside of your fabric. A shorter and narrower zig-zag will be less visible. For example, you could set your zig-zag stitch to a width of 6 and a length of 1.5, which will give you a dense zig-zag that is similar in width to a serged stitch.

When sewing with a zig-zag stitch, remember to adjust the location of your seam guide. The seam guidelines on your metal throat plate reflect the distance from the centre needle position, but with a zig-zag stitch, the needle is not in the centre position. You will need to make new guidelines that are the correct distance from the left side of your zig-zag.

Another option for a stretch stitch is the lightning bolt stitch, which is available on most modern machines. This stitch is shaped like a lightning bolt and achieves a stretchy seam without showing excessive stitches on the outside. However, the zig-zag stitch is a good choice if your machine doesn't have a lightning bolt stitch setting.

If you are sewing lightweight knit fabrics, be aware that a basic zig-zag stitch may create a 'ridge' or 'tunnel' effect. In this case, you can use a triple zig-zag stitch to avoid this issue.

Create a sock sewing pattern

To create a sock sewing pattern, you will need to follow these steps:

Firstly, gather your supplies. For this project, you will need fabric with good widthwise stretch and recovery, such as fine wool, silk, cotton, or rayon knit. You will also need a sewing machine or overlocker/serger, as well as basic sewing tools like scissors and pins, and elastic (optional).

Next, you will want to create a pattern. You can download a free pattern online, or create your own by tracing an existing pair of well-fitting socks. If you are creating your own pattern, cut the fabric to be 8" wide and adjust the length according to your preference. Remember to add 1/2" to the length for sewing.

Once you have your pattern, cut out the fabric according to the pattern. You will need two pieces of fabric for each sock. Pin the pieces together and use a zig-zag stitch to sew them together, as this will allow for more stretch.

Now, you can assemble the socks. Follow the pattern instructions or your own design to sew the pieces together, forming the shape of the sock. Remember to use a narrow zig-zag stitch for extra comfort.

Finally, try on your socks and adjust as needed. You can leave the tops of the socks raw, or finish them with a knit hem or elastic for a more polished look.

With these steps, you can create your own custom DIY socks that fit your foot perfectly and elevate your entire look!

Use old socks to create pattern pieces

To make socks out of stockings, you can use old socks to create pattern pieces. This method is ideal if you are aiming to create a pair of socks that fit your foot size perfectly. First, take a pair of old socks that fit you well. Next, cut your stretch fabric into two pieces, each 8" wide and 42" long. You can adjust the length of your DIY socks by measuring from the tip of your toes to where you want the top of your stockings to sit.

Now, fold your fabric in half and pin it in place with dressmaker pins. Lay your old socks over the rectangle, placing them near the edge of one side. Use shears to trim around the end of the rectangle, following the shape of your sock. Pin this into place. Sew all the way around, from the top of your rectangle down the side seams until you close up the toes. You can use a serger for finished seams, or a zig-zag stitch on a basic sewing machine to give your stretchy fabric more stretch.

Sewing machine settings: knit stitch, zig-zag stitch, normal stitch length, low stitch height

When making socks out of stockings, you will be working with stretchy knit fabrics. To successfully sew these fabrics, you will need to adjust your sewing machine settings. Here are the recommended settings for knit stitch, zig-zag stitch, normal stitch length, and low stitch height:

Knit Stitch

The knit stitch is a great option for sewing seams in stretchy knit fabrics. It is important to use a stitch that can stretch with the fabric, such as a zig-zag stitch, as straight stitches will "pop" and break when the fabric is stretched.

For the knit stitch, you should use a longer stitch length. The recommended range for most sewing machines is between 2.5 and 4.0 mm. You can also use the stitch length regulator on your machine to adjust the length in smaller increments.

Additionally, consider using a walking foot if possible. This attachment helps ensure that all layers of the fabric are fed into the machine evenly, reducing the likelihood of ripples in your seams. If you do not have a walking foot, reduce the presser foot pressure to 1 or 2.

Zig-Zag Stitch

The zig-zag stitch is another essential stitch for sewing stretchy fabrics. It allows for stretch and can be used for both seams and hemming.

When using a zig-zag stitch, it is important to adjust the stitch width and length to achieve the desired appearance and functionality. A narrow zig-zag stitch is ideal for sewing seams, as it allows for stretch while also creating a straight seam. Adjust the width and length accordingly, testing on scrap fabric to find the perfect combination for your project.

For a basic sewing machine, look for the dial or knob with "length" written next to it or an illustration of a dashed line. Modern computerized machines may have a touch screen or button for adjusting the stitch length.

Normal Stitch Length

The normal stitch length for most sewing machines is set between 2.0 and 2.5 mm. However, the ideal stitch length depends on the fabric weight and the purpose of the stitch.

For lightweight fabrics, use a shorter stitch length (1.5-2.0) to prevent puckering. For medium-weight fabrics, the standard stitch length (2.0-2.5) is suitable. For heavyweight fabrics and quilts, a longer stitch length (3.0-4.0) is recommended.

Low Stitch Height

To achieve a low stitch height, you will need to adjust the stitch width. Keep in mind that the specific settings and options available will depend on your sewing machine model.

For a zig-zag stitch, the width sets the swing of the needle. A narrow zig-zag stitch, achieved with a smaller width setting, is ideal for sewing seams in stretchy fabrics. For a straight stitch, the width setting does not affect the width of the stitch but changes the needle position instead.

Remember to refer to your sewing machine manual for specific instructions on adjusting stitch width and length. Test different combinations on scrap fabric to find the best settings for your project.

Frequently asked questions