How to knit sock heels 🧦 6 methods on video
Discover the secrets for knitting sock heels like a true expert Sock Lover! In this guide to learn how to knit socks, we explore six methods to create the perfect heels for your handknit socks. From classic short-row heels to the interesting afterthought heel, each technique offers a unique way of adding shape and comfort to your socks. Improve your sock-knitting skills with our videos and tips!
How to knit sock heels
There are different types of sock heels, each with a diverse set of traits and made using different knitting techniques. Next, we’ll explain some of the most popular methods to knit sock heels.
The heel on the Vichy socks by @north.knitter is knit using German short rows.
Short-row heel 🧦
Short-row heels involve knitting flat across half the stitches on the needles. To achieve a soft heel turn:
- In the first section, you reduce the number of stitches you knit each row, after creating a double stitch or wrapped stitch, which is left on hold and not worked on following rows.
- In the second section, to add volume to the heel, you work a double stitch or wrapped stitch each row, until you’re back to the initial number of stitches.
📌 The double stitch created during German short rows counts as one stitch and is worked as a single stitch.
Take note of the videos to learn 3 ways to knit short rows: German, wrap and turn (W&T), and shadow wraps.
The shadow wrap short-row technique is applied to the heel of the Peacock socks by @averagepony
📌 The first difference between these 3 techniques lies in how you wrap and work the stitch afterward to avoid making holes in your fabric.
German short rows 🧦 Double stitch
Wrap & Turn (W&T) 🧦 Wrapped stitch
Shadow Wraps
Reinforced heel flap and gusset
The reinforced heel flap and gusset is the only method that is worked differently depending on the sock’s construction, either toe-up or cuff-down.
📌 The reinforced heel flap is usually knit in 1×1 rib. In the past, this part of the heel was knitted stranded with a nylon thread to make it more resistant to wear.
The beautiful Au Jardin socks by @mclevq are knit cuff-down with a heel flap and gusset.
Follow the videos to learn the differences between knitting a heel flap and gusset on toe-up and cuff-down socks.
Reinforced heel flap and gusset on toe-up socks
How to knit a reinforced heel flap and gusset on cuff-down socks
Afterthought heel 🧦
This method allows you to knit the entire sock tube and leave the heels for later. To do this, use waste yarn (we recommend a contrast color yarn in the same weight you’re using) to knit the stitches where the heel will go. These stitches are then picked up and the waste yarn is removed to knit the heel of the sock. Learn how to do it in the following video!
📌 Pay attention when knitting the afterthought heel! It’s essential to make sure that the number of stitches and their position is the same as for the toe.
The Pequeños Corazones socks by @sionaland are knit using an afterthought heel.
Practice what you’ve learned! Follow the videos, experiment, and tell us: Which is your favorite method for knitting sock heels? 🧶✨
Guide to learn how to knit socks
Go over everything you’ve learned so far and don’t miss out on the latest installment of our guide with a 100% Sock Lovers gift:
- Sock yarns 🧦 How to choose the best yarn to knit socks with?
- How to measure your foot 🧦
- Gauge swatch in the round ➕ Steek technique 🧦
- Calculations to knit socks ➗ 🧦 Step-by-step formula
- How to cast on socks two-at-a-time 🧦 Seamless toe methods
- How to knit a sock heel 🧦 Videos with step-by-step instructions
- Sock project sheet 🧦 Free PDF
Comment your sock questions, suggestions, and experiences, Katia Lover!
Use the hashtag #KatiaSockLovers
🤳 Lastly, share your progress with #KatiaSockLovers and remember to mention @katiayarns on Instagram and @katiacrafts on TikTok.
