My guess is that it is the yarn you used. Try using some fabric softener next time you wash them.

Hi, Thanks for answering - I used Lion Brand Magic Stripes and from different reviews I had seen thought they'd be soft. I'll try the fabric softener tho. Do you think it needs tighter knitting? I went from the size 3 needles on the pattern instructions to size 1. Strangely, the first sock on the size 1 was a bit big through the ankle particularly, but the second sock on the same size needle was pretty much just right. I say strangely as I would have thought that, if anything, my tension would have loosened rather then tightened as I knitted.

Thanks again.

If you used size 1 on Lion Brand, then the fabric should be tight enough. I usually knit socks on smaller needles than called for because I knit loosely. My guess is that the reverse stockinette on the inside of handknit socks sometimes feels a little rougher than machine made socks which use finer gauge yarn. You can also wear the socks inside out. If you want to splurge, get Mountain Colors Bearfoot or washable 100% merino like Koigu for softer socks.

Thanks threejsmom. I think you're right about the reverse stockinette stitch feeling rough. I rarely go barefoot and I think, since the bottom of my feet aren't rough,they are more sensitive to the stitches. Kind of like the princess and the pea. LOL Guess I better get softer yarn - or walk barefoot more often.