So now that I’m a few pairs into my sock-making phase, I thought it was time to try an afterthought heel. Long story short, I am not a huge fan, but I still think it was important for me to try! It’s always nice to explore new techniques.

• 0.5 skein of Flock Fibre Studio Take a Hike Sock – a fingering (1) weight yarn (colour A: Antique Shop)
• 1 skein of Allison Barnes Yarn Basic Sock Minis – a fingering (1) weight yarn (colour B: Hot Toddy)
• Size 2 (2.75mm) knitting needles (I used ChiaoGoo 23cm circulars)

Pattern by Cheryl at Hypnotic Yarn Designs

The basic premise behind an afterthought heel is that you use scrap yarn to mark the row where a heel would be inserted, and then you can continue knitting the rest of the sock. This means that the majority of the project is made like a tube! After the tube is finished, you have to cut out the scrap yarn, pick up the live stitches, and add a heel. Before this project, the idea of it terrified me. What do you mean you have to cut out yarn? Why would you ever cut out your hard work?

It turns out that people like afterthought heels when they don’t have the time to count stitches or work a more traditional heel. It’s also nice for colour changes or using a more durable yarn, since the heel takes the most wear in a pair of socks.

Personally, I didn’t like the fit of the afterthought heel. Because there is less shaping to the sock, there isn’t the same support from the gusset for your arch. I think that taking the time to do a typical heel is worth it when it makes the end product fit a little better. However, I will say that cutting yarn and picking up live stitches isn’t as scary as it seems! I did end up using additional double-pointed needles to help me pick up the stitches, since the actual needle part is a bit short on the 23cm circulars.

Overall, I love the colour combination of these socks, since the warm brown tones of the heels are complimented nicely by the flecks of gold in the main colour. I wish the fit was a little more snug, but I learned lots, and am happy with this project!

Until next time, happy knitting!