We'll dive into knitting toe-up socks, featuring a sole gusset and heel flap. We'll start with a quick comparison of sock-knitting methods, highlighting the benefits of starting from the toe. We'll discuss common issues with toe-up sock patterns and then have a practical go at the essential techniques like Judy’s Magic cast-on, lifted increases for the toe and gusset shaping, and how to create a sturdy heel flap using a reinforced slip stitch pattern. We'll also cover shaping the heel with short rows and achieving a stretchy bind-off for the leg. By the end, you'll have the skills and confidence to craft toe-up socks with creativity.

Technique Requirements: You should be able to cast on, knit, purl, make increases and decreases, be fluent in knitting in the round, and have a good understanding of the concept of short rows.

Cast on 24 stitches. Join to work in the round and place a marker for BOR. If using DPNs, place a locking marker in the work instead of on the needles. Knit 1-2 rounds.

DK-weight yarn in a light color, circular needles for chosen yarn and DPNs if preferred for small-circumference knitting, 5 stitch markers + one locking stitch marker for BOR, 4 hair pins or locking stitch markers for short rows, spare set of circular needles to practice the cast-on.