To Knit Two or Not to Knit Two...

Today while perusing the wonderful world of knitting demos on YouTube, I stumbled upon a fascinating concept:  knit 2 socks at the same time, on the same needles, or "2S1N".  Why would this appeal to anyone?  Isn't knitting socks in general considered a bit of a daunting task, especially for beginners or those (like me) who are returning to knitting after a long hiatus? 

The idea stems from the all-too-common syndrome called "orphan sock" that occurs when we never get around to making that second sock.  I also use the term to refer to the single sock left at the end of a laundry day, but that's another story. 

The two-socks-at-a-time thing is also allegedly useful for ensuring that both socks fit the same (same numbers of rows/stitches, and your gauge is, theoretically, going to be the same for both socks).

How is it done?  I found two different styles of 2S1N:  one inside the other, and side-by-side.  One inside the other is similar to double knitting, except that the two layers are not supposed to become intertwined at all.  It's a very intriguing concept, and I think I'd like to try it - IF I can figure out how to cast on, and how to work those two yarns without tearing out my hair in the process.

Side by side should, theoretically, be easier to accomplish, because you can actually SEE both socks forming in front of your eyes.  I wonder, though, just how hard it will be to keep track of which sock you are currently working.

Maybe I will try one or the other technique with my next pair of socks.

BTW:  It's nice to have a 3-year-old to try out these experiments on, because he is THRILLED to wear ANYTHING I make him, even if it isn't perfect.  Maybe once I dial in my technique, I'll make myself a pair.

TTFN