Sarah, a Washington native, resides in Virginia with her husband, three children, two cats, and a Bernese Mountain dog named Belle. After 20 years of service in the U.S. Army, her husband retired, and together they launched Woolen Waves in 2023.
Sarah received her Bachelors of Fine Arts from James Madison University in 2002. Her passion is Fiber Arts, particularly knitting, weaving, spinning, and dying fiber. Each country, state, city and town that she has lived in has shaped her art and life.
Circular sock knitting machines first piqued her interest in the mid 2000s, but due to Army demands at the time, she was not able to purchase one until 2023. Sarah found it intutive to use and soon started cranking out more socks than her family and friends could wear.
Inspired by the history of circular sock machines and her love of fiber arts, Sarah decided to start this shop to share her handmade socks with you. Thank you for visiting!
What is a Circular Sock Knitting Machine?
Circular Sock Knitting Machines date back to the 1800's, but gained popularity during World War I.
Families would get a machine and 10 pounds of wool, which would make 30 pairs of socks. The demand was high. Service men in the trenches needed wool socks to keep their feet warm and dry to prevent trench foot.
The program was so successful it came back during World War II.
Why Wool?
Wool has natural antimicrobial properties and will keep your feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Modern day wool yarns specific for sock making are now made with a treatment to the wool, making it machine-washable. Blended with nylon, this yarn is easy to care for and long-wearing, making it a fairly sustainable choice over most options in socks.
Can’t Wear Wool?
For those who have a sensitivity to wool, I also offer wool-free socks knit with a super soft yarn containing only cotton and nylon. You'll love them!
