How to Make Thong Socks
Thong socks, traditionally called tabi socks, originated in Japan. The big toes on the socks are separate from the rest, similar to toe socks but with only one toe. Many believe that tabi socks can increase circulation by hitting a pressure point between the toes. Traditional tabi socks, as worn by geisha, do not stretch, but mold to a person's feet over time. Now it is possible to purchase tabi socks in many department stores or online, and the socks stretch to fit all feet. It is also possible to make them from a regular pair of socks.
Instructions
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1
Turn one of the socks inside out and put it on your right foot. Spread your big toe away from the others to stretch the sock just a little.
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2
Locate with your fingers where your foot begins between the big toe and the second toe. Place the marker at this spot and draw a line to the end of the sock along the gap between the big toe and second toe. Remove the sock from your foot, but keep it inside out.
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3
Cut through the two layers of sock along the line you drew in Step 2. Cut through both the top and bottom layers of the sock. Do not cut past the end of the line you drew.
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4
Thread the needle and tie a knot at the end of the thread. Push the needle up through the two layers of sock at the tip of the big toe. Pull the thread until you reach the knot. Wrap the thread around the cut seams and back up between the two layers. Wrap around the seams again and back up. Continue sewing the seams together until you reach the end.
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5
Tie a knot in the thread and cut any that remains. Turn the sock inside out. The completed sock goes on your left foot.
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6
Repeat Steps 1 through 5, only place the sock on your left foot in Step 1. The finished sock goes on the right foot.
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Tips & Warnings
Turn colorful, knee-high, ankle or even thigh-high socks into tabi socks. Add bows to the tops for decorations, or tie-dye them for additional personality.
Use a sewing machine for faster sewing. This can also make the stitches last longer.
If you cut the socks past the line you drew, the finished sock can press between your toes and may cause uncomfortable rubbing.
References
- Photo Credit Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
