We love knitting socks from the toe up—it lets you use every last inch of yarn! And knitting the heels in afterwards means that they are easy to replace later if they wear out—plus it makes it simple to add a zippy contrast color.
Whether you choose fingering or sport weight, ribbed or stockinette, this pattern is filled with tutorials and step by step guides for Kitchener stitch, knitting socks on two circulars and the afterthought heel. New socks and new skills—great!
- FINGERING-WEIGHT VERSION: YARN: Approx. 375 yds/343m of a fingering-weight sock yarn (includes approx. 85 yds/78m for contrasting heel and toe, if desired). Shown in 2 skeins Berroco Ultra Alpaca Fine(433 yds/400m each) in colors 1207 (grey) and 1281 (red); 1 skein each.
- Neddles: Set of 5 double-point needles or 2 circular needles, US 1 (2.25mm) or size to obtain gauge.
- Notions: 1yd/m smooth waste yarn in same weight, contrasting color, to place heel. Locking marker. Darning needle to finish. Reinforcing yarn, if desired.
- Gauge: Approx. 32 sts = 4"/10cm in stockinette stitch.
- DK/SPORT-WEIGHT VERSION: Yarn: 2 skeins Regia 6-Ply (137 yds/125m each). (Shown here in color 2143.) Or approx. 270 yds/247m of an equivalent DK- or sport-weight sock yarn (includes approx. 65 yds/59m for contrasting heel and toe, if desired). Larger men's shoe sizes might require a third skein, especially if longer cuffs are desired.
- Needles: Set of 5 double-point needles or 2 circular needles, US 3 (3.25mm) or size to obtain gauge.
- Notions: 1yd/m smooth waste yarn in same weight, contrasting color, to place heel. Locking marker. Darning needle to finish. Reinforcing yarn, if desired.
- Gauge: Approx. 24 sts = 4"/10cm in stockinette stitch in the round.
- Finished sizes (Both gauges): Medium-width adult: Up to 10"/25cm foot on 8"/20cm cuff. For a longer foot, knit a shorter cuff–or purchase more yarn.