Leg, Ribbing, and Bind-Off
I only got one heel question last week, so I'm going to go ahead and walk you through the rest of the sock.
Remember that the step-by-step video instructions for how to knit these socks can be found in your Toe-Up Socks class.
I'm also here to answer any questions you have - just leave a comment on any blog/knitalong post or email [email protected]. We are now answering questions within 24 hours!
It's Time To Knit The Legs Of Your Socks
This should be relatively straightforward as the leg will be a straight tube. If you would like to make knee-high socks, you can.
To Make Knee-High Socks
If you are making socks with a cuff longer than 7 or 8 inches, try on the sock at one-to-two-inch intervals, working the following increase round when the cuff feels snug:
Needle 1 (heel needle): K1, M1L, K to end of needle.
Needle 2 (instep needle): K1, M1L, K to end of needle.
Finish With an Inch of Ribbing
Finish your socks with at least one inch of 1x1 or 2x2 rib. Giving it a quick Google, I see that the Internet sort of agrees that 1x1 rib is a bit stretchier.
The most important factor in making sure your ribbed cuffs fit well will be your bind-off.
Recommended Bind-Off: JSSBO
You can do JSSBO for 1x1 or 2x2 rib, and you will get great results.
For invisible ribbed bind-offs, you can use the aptly-named Invisible Ribbed Bind-Off, the Tubular Bind-Off for 1x1 Rib, or the Kitchener Double-Rib Bind-Off for 2x2 Rib. But for your beginner socks JSSBO is hands-down the easiest choice.
Remember to Block Your Socks
Blocking your socks is the last and crucial step in making them look their best.
After all that knitting, your socks need some soap and water to help the fibers relax into their new shape. Read about how to block socks and why here.
Continue To Post Photos of Your Finished Socks
It gives us a chance to add a little "Woo hoo! You did it!" to your day.
By the way, this is the next-to-last knitalong lessson in our series. The last one will just be celebrating your finished socks.
If you've gotten this far, congratulations! You have finished the hardest part of your socks and it's all downhill from here.
Below, two more students who have recently finished their toe-up socks write in:
More Student Successes
It’s Like a Little Light Bulb Came On
I have knitted 6 pairs of socks, 4 in worsted weight and 2 in fingering weight yarn. I feel like finally I can do any pattern of socks. It’s like a little light bulb came on and I now understand how to make socks. Thank you for your help.
– Rose Mary G.
I Learned So Much With This Class!!
– Louise V.
Keep going on those socks, you're nearing the finish line! Happy knitting,
Liat
