February 4, 2010

January Socks

 The first months combo of my self-imposed sock club. 

Yarn: Handkraft "The sock who loved me" in Mangrove (70% Merino, 30% silk. Yummy.)  Pattern: Sleepy Hollow.

Verdict:  I love these socks.  Love them. 

I love the stripes up the backs of the legs (probably a throwback to some bizarre stocking seam association I'm making) and I love - no, not love... I am deeply satisfied by the heel.

This sock is knit from the top down, and when you get to the time for the heel, you begin to work it in the traditional slipped stitch pattern, but you don't work it by itself, back and forth. 

Instead you keep working in lovely fulfilling rounds, increasing for the gussets as you go.  When the whole business is the right length and size, you work a short row turn, then work back and forth, uniting and consuming the gusset stitches into the heel and sole.  After a little, when you have the right number of stitches, you increase as you consume... so that stitch count stays constant. 

The result is a nice fitting heel, but as is so often the point in knitting... that's not it's charm.

The charm is, somehow - that the resulting heel is charmingly foot shaped, and almost seems fitted.  Narrow where heels are, wider where the foot is. I'm thrillingly enchanted.  It's like matching increases or a perfect bobble, or bang on symmetry in a paired decrease.  The attention to detail is just.  Well.  It's sexy. 

And no.  I don't mind that I've said that about a sock.  I bet you think it's hot too.

Posted by Stephanie at February 4, 2010 3:51 PM
Comments

Makes me want to knit them too. (Too bad I have so many other socks to knit before that though!)

Posted by: Bev at February 4, 2010 3:54 PM

Makes me want to knit them too. (Too bad I have so many other socks to knit before that though!)

Posted by: Bev at February 4, 2010 3:54 PM

Makes me want to knit them too. (Too bad I have so many other socks to knit before that though!)

Posted by: Bev at February 4, 2010 3:54 PM

Love the colors and the sock is soooo sexy! Great job.

Posted by: Kris at February 4, 2010 3:55 PM

Very hot! I'm getting that pattern and starting a pair for myself.

Posted by: Claudia at February 4, 2010 3:55 PM

I'm almost tempted to become a sock knitter! Congratulations on yet another beautiful knitted object. Thanks for sharing the details of your delight, that only other knitters can fully appreciate.

Posted by: Beth at February 4, 2010 3:56 PM

Oohhhh....Now I want the pattern, if only for how that heel looks. I just love how it looks when you have it laid out just so.

Posted by: Katharine at February 4, 2010 3:58 PM

That heel is the George Clooney of heels! Yeah--it's that sexy.

Posted by: Karen at February 4, 2010 3:58 PM

These are gorgeous!

Posted by: Judy at February 4, 2010 3:59 PM

Those are awesome. They just jumped the queue of everything else I was about to make. Seriously dude. And that heel - totally sexy!

Posted by: Lya at February 4, 2010 3:59 PM

Totally hot. I love those!!

Posted by: Amanda at February 4, 2010 4:00 PM

I might need a towel to wipe up the drool. (Hope this pair's for you, and not headed out the door!)

Posted by: Amber at February 4, 2010 4:02 PM

That is a great heel! And also, is that you turning your foot around in a scary manner, or your child?

Posted by: Laura at February 4, 2010 4:03 PM

Beautiful color, sexy socks! I think I need to get that pattern, the heel sounds awesome.

Posted by: Marilla at February 4, 2010 4:04 PM

I am not quite sure how i came across your blog.. but it is delightful and when I want to be cheered up I have a wee read of it and smile away to myself here in Glasgow scotland UK
I returned to knitting when my youngest granddaughter was born in May last year, she had cold feet... so yes I have been knitting her socks ever since. AND socks for me... as I mostly think my daughters will not want to wear them.
The socks you display today are indeed delightful.... knit on and thanks for sharing in the lovely chatty way you do x Ann

Posted by: Ann Bovey at February 4, 2010 4:04 PM

Totally hot. Thank you for sharing!

Posted by: Karen at February 4, 2010 4:05 PM

Since "Yarn: Handkraft "The sock who loved me" in Mangrove (70% Merino, 30% silk)" is out of stock, can you please give more details on the kind of yarn (weight - etc.)it is so that I can look for a substitute?

Posted by: Karen Palmer at February 4, 2010 4:06 PM

Oh, I do...I really, really do!!

Posted by: Christie at February 4, 2010 4:07 PM

My husband learned early in our marriage that baking bread from scratch is dead sexy. Now he has learned that if he wears a pair of sock I handknit for him, it has an almost similar effect, and may gain him "favors" later... probably TMI, but hey, it is what it is ;)

Posted by: Karen at February 4, 2010 4:08 PM

Yep! Totally charming!

Posted by: debra at February 4, 2010 4:10 PM

Ahhhhh... what a lovely heel. I agree — fabulous socks!

Posted by: Carla at February 4, 2010 4:11 PM

The socks are beautiful. Socks are the "thing" that might make a knitter out of me. The thought of knitting socks appeals to me -- but not enough to take it up right now.

Posted by: Rhonda at February 4, 2010 4:11 PM

Those are profoundly sexy, and a heckuva lot more comfortable than a leather bustier!

Posted by: Kelly at February 4, 2010 4:12 PM

I want a collection of heels. The body pattern - so what - it's the heel that really makes the sock interesting.

Posted by: Diane H at February 4, 2010 4:13 PM

Dead Sexy. Love them!

Posted by: Alynxia at February 4, 2010 4:16 PM

Wholly Dyna! Those are terrific. The silk. The Sexy Heel. I want some.

Posted by: Leah at February 4, 2010 4:17 PM

I want to know how you posed for picture 4??? Are you double jointed?? :-) And yes those socks are the bomb!!!!

Posted by: Yarnwitch at February 4, 2010 4:20 PM

Wow. Were I not a devoted toe-upper, I would have to figure out this heel generically, so I could use it in any old sock pattern. (Because this method will only work top-down, and that is part of the wonderfulness.) In fact, this heel is so fabulously sculptured and gorgeous, I may have to do that anyway. And then I will have to knit a pair of top-down socks. Oh My God.

Posted by: gretcheng at February 4, 2010 4:24 PM

Gorgeous! Makes me think about another attempt at making socks, even though I know it will end in disappointment.

Posted by: Lynn in DC at February 4, 2010 4:25 PM

marvelous socks and I can totally see the deep appreciation they could engender. what a lovely pairing of pattern and yarn!

Posted by: susan in Dulwich at February 4, 2010 4:27 PM

It is, indeed, a sexy sock.
Who did you get to take your pictures? (That's my biggest problem with taking pictures of my own knitting - only the child and the dog to snap the pic, and neither of them are very good photographers.)

Posted by: Julie at February 4, 2010 4:28 PM

I would not call it "self-imposed" as that could be demotivating in the long run. Or the short run. Call it "Stephanie's Super Exclusive Sock of the Month Club" or something fab like that. :)

Posted by: buttercup at February 4, 2010 4:30 PM

Damn straight I think it's sexy. Rowr.

Posted by: JennJustJenn at February 4, 2010 4:30 PM

Lovely yarn and lovely socks!

Posted by: MiA at February 4, 2010 4:30 PM

Major sock hotness. That kit should come with a 976 number and a late-night commercial.

Posted by: silfert at February 4, 2010 4:31 PM

Way cool. I have a thing for wool/silk blends. I have a thing for clever heels. I think I have a thing for your socks!

Posted by: Mimi at February 4, 2010 4:32 PM

Gorgeous socks. I love the little indents in the bottom up shot. I wonder if I have enough sock yarn to kit up a sock a month (for the month's that are left in 2010).

If not, then I should get cracking on the sock yarn buying before it is all gone!

Posted by: Seanna Lea at February 4, 2010 4:32 PM

I, too, am totally charmed by the heel.

Posted by: Fay at February 4, 2010 4:34 PM

I love the really subtle variegation in that colorway. You can tell it's there, and it adds a little oomph to the sock, but I like how it doesn't detract from the stitch pattern. Beautiful.

Posted by: Meredith at February 4, 2010 4:38 PM

yeah, sexy. My jaw is agape. Heel revolution.

Posted by: rach at February 4, 2010 4:40 PM

Heels are supposed to be more narrow than feet? (Peers down at feet with a pensive expression.) Oh yeah, I forgot that most people don't have feet shaped like the Flintstones'. Ah well!

Posted by: Erika at February 4, 2010 4:43 PM

I needed something to take the edge off the day, this post has got to be it (and I don't have a sock OTN currently).

Is the photo 'shopped' or is there another model? (It reminds of the black humour that surrounded SIL becoming a below knee amputee, and the party tricks she could participate in! - but I guess you had to be there).

Very clever heel that might join my queue, very lovely gradations of colour. The muggles will never know or understand.

Posted by: StellaMM at February 4, 2010 4:43 PM

What is two days in a lifetime of knitting? Go for it.

Posted by: StellaMM at February 4, 2010 4:45 PM

I want to knit them just for the heel!

Posted by: Donna at February 4, 2010 4:46 PM

Sock porn.
Everything about that sock is beautiful. (Would a non-knitter understand even the tiniest bit about that statement?) Question: could an "advanced beginner" - "early intermediate" manage both the pattern and the heel variation of it? How about one with little self-confidence???

Posted by: georgia at February 4, 2010 4:53 PM

Grand! Johnny Depp of socks! (in my opinion) A. xx

Posted by: Aline at February 4, 2010 4:53 PM

I'm just finishing up a pair of socks from a sock club (mine's not self-imposed, though) with that exact type of heel and I love it, as well. Won't be the last time I knit that type of heel, either!

Your socks are lovely and I'll bet they are warm.

Posted by: Sandy at February 4, 2010 4:59 PM

You're right, that's one HOT heel turn.

Posted by: Mya at February 4, 2010 4:59 PM

I do think that that heel is sexy. Dead sexy. I want to get that pattern now just so I can incorporate said sexy heel into my standard sock.

Posted by: Megan Doreen at February 4, 2010 5:00 PM

Love that heel. The lace pattern is a nice one, but the heel puts those socks over the top for me. I have a few leafy green sock yarns that might work particularly well with Sleepy Hollow.

Finishing my current project just got that much harder ;)

Posted by: Jamie at February 4, 2010 5:00 PM

Fabulous! If I really understood that heel, I would like to try it.

Posted by: Mindy at February 4, 2010 5:00 PM

First let me start by asking. Is that sunshine I see comming in the window? WOW! The socks look yummy and yes it is ok to say sexy about socks. We do have a thing for them. I might say some yarn and a pattern would make for a great Valentiine's day. Be still my heart.

Posted by: lydia at February 4, 2010 5:01 PM

I agree, definitely "sock porn"! What a feast for the eyes...and yes, dead sexy!!

Posted by: Nancy in TO at February 4, 2010 5:03 PM

Beautiful socks and great pictures! I think they would Jared Flood a run for his money :) (And yay for the sun shining - finally!)

Posted by: Suzanne at February 4, 2010 5:04 PM

I love your personel sock club idea and will deffinately try that myself. I have so much sock yarn and never know what to knit, but if you take the pondering equation out and have everything all ready set up you just knit it. I love the sound of the construction of the sock and just had to get my self. The socks came out lovely.

Posted by: Sheila at February 4, 2010 5:05 PM

Very lovely socks! Like you, I love the seam at the back of the leg.

Posted by: Meredith at February 4, 2010 5:07 PM

wow, that is a really interesting heel construction. thanks for the detail and photos.

Posted by: Diana at February 4, 2010 5:14 PM

Yes. Yes, I think that's a sexy construction. (you know you're audience)

Posted by: Gwen at February 4, 2010 5:14 PM

Truly a delightful sock! Now that I'm considering moving out of my sock-comfort-zone (ie plain stockinette leg & foot) I need to try this pattern.

Posted by: Becky at February 4, 2010 5:15 PM

If I didn't have an Olympics project looming in my very near future, I would be purchasing this pattern right now and casting on. I love the yarn you chose to go with this pattern, great choice!

Ironically, my Olympics project also contains foliage. (Anne Hanson's Totally Autumn from Knitty Fall '07, for the record.)

Posted by: Casi at February 4, 2010 5:19 PM

:) even better than the heel turn is the foot turn. Would love to see that uncropped photo!

Posted by: Gina C. at February 4, 2010 5:20 PM

LOVE it, I agree, it is HOT. I think this will be the next sock I knit. Am working on Cookie A's "Kai Mai" right now, a very cool sock.....

Posted by: Amy at February 4, 2010 5:20 PM

Va-va-va-voom! Gorgeous sock. I'm going to have to buy that pattern.

Posted by: Barbara at February 4, 2010 5:21 PM

Those heels are so curvaceous and sexy I'm dubbing them "Marilyn". Lovely rest of the sock BTW. I'm thinking it's going into my queue right away.

Posted by: stephanie at February 4, 2010 5:22 PM

I LOVE your perfect 1st position in the photo showing the heal-back. Wish I could still do that!

Posted by: PeggyH in SF at February 4, 2010 5:23 PM

Aargh! Don't show me preetty projects - I'm trying to get my WIP finished so that I can train for the Knitting Olympics, and I tell you, my planned entry is not Sleepy Hollow socks! No, I've bought yummy fluffsome alpaga (I love that word, it's French for alpaca) yarn, and I will use it on my planned project! I will! I will!

(So many exclamation marks. A sign that knitting a blanket entirely in feather and fan might not have been good for my brain?)

Posted by: Awfulknitter at February 4, 2010 5:24 PM

That is the Vin Diesel of heels. And that's as sexy as I can possibly put it. (And yes, I am embarassed to admit it. He's my guilty pleasure.)

Posted by: Violet at February 4, 2010 5:24 PM

You're right! It's a hot heel.

Posted by: The Captain at February 4, 2010 5:25 PM

OMG Georgia is right, it *is* sock porn. I am off to get the pattern and I am alarmed at how easily I am seduced by your knitting! :-) But that is a sexy heel.
My version of your sock club shall also have baggies with a sock pattern I want to knit just waiting for the perfect yarn.

Posted by: Stickweaver at February 4, 2010 5:27 PM

Brilliantly sexy!! I must admit, just the way you talked about it yesterday made me scour around and put that pattern in my little Ravelry market basket. Great socks!

Posted by: mrslaceknitter at February 4, 2010 5:28 PM

So first you gift me with the magic of "make your heel flap a square and go longer if you have a high instep" and now you find a pattern to FIT the heel, not just be long enough so the sock pulls on over your heel? I will talk myself into paying $6 for a single pattern. I will.

Posted by: JoAnn at February 4, 2010 5:29 PM

silfert at 4:31? How about 976-Iam-soxy

Posted by: Amber at February 4, 2010 5:33 PM

Absolutely lovely.

Posted by: 2muchfun at February 4, 2010 5:35 PM

I love those colours. And in merino/silk? You make me wish I knitted socks. (I know, I know; it's somewhat heretical that I don't. But I have discovered that I am, very firmly, a Spinner who sometimes Knits, not the other way around.) I like how the leaves of the pattern together with the variegation create gentle movement on the sock.

The fourth photo that's mystifying people brings fifth position from ballet to mind. It can be done; I just wouldn't be able to take a photo of my feet while doing it...

Posted by: Autumn at February 4, 2010 5:37 PM

Mmmmmm, yummy! I must get my hands on that pattern. Right away.

Posted by: Ashley at February 4, 2010 5:41 PM

On first sight my thought was what a sexy heel!

Posted by: kern at February 4, 2010 5:43 PM

How did you get your feet to do that(fourth photo down), with toe and heel together? Freaky. Great socks.

Posted by: Susie at February 4, 2010 5:46 PM

I never knew that the bottom of a sock could be so lovely! <3
Congrats on (for all intents and purposes) keeping up with your sock club!

Posted by: Erin at February 4, 2010 5:48 PM

Your socks are lovely it makes me want to nit them to!! I wish i had the pattern!! What a sexy looking heel!

Posted by: Liz at February 4, 2010 5:53 PM

Fabulous sock - definitely want to knit this!

Posted by: Kate at February 4, 2010 6:01 PM

I need another sock pattern like I need a third boob, but damn! That heel really is HOT!

Posted by: JelliDonut at February 4, 2010 6:06 PM

I love those socks. Even not on my color wheel, I want those socks! Oooo...the heel, the gusset...do they fit as well as they look? Better? I need the pattern to make my own! (And I only saw a picture.)

Posted by: Heather P. at February 4, 2010 6:07 PM

That is a beautiful beautiful heel.

Posted by: Diana at February 4, 2010 6:07 PM

These are white hot sexy socks. Wheee. I'll go and try to recover from sock-shock now.

Posted by: Katrin at February 4, 2010 6:08 PM

Those are beautiful, beautiful socks with a beautiful bottom on them. Ooh, that sounded dirty.

Posted by: spillyjane at February 4, 2010 6:09 PM

Sooo Sexyyyyy! I need a cold shower.

The socks are beautiful. Will have to knit this one soon, or at least hoard the pattern

Posted by: Cathy at February 4, 2010 6:11 PM

Those socks are beautiful. And that heel DOES sound sexy. I may just need to make a pair of those.

Posted by: jennwx at February 4, 2010 6:12 PM

Not being a very experienced sock knitter, and like 'gretcheng,' really liking toe-up......
why couldn't this heel and/or whole sock be knitted toe up?? If it's knit in the round, I think that would make the conversion easier.

Posted by: kim at February 4, 2010 6:19 PM

Good god, I want to knit that so much. The very idea is making my toes curl in ecstasy.

Posted by: Ellie at February 4, 2010 6:21 PM

Ooh, those are sexy.

But not sexy enough to get me past my fear of socks. I'm having some major sockblock issues.

Posted by: Virginia at February 4, 2010 6:29 PM

I want them. The heel sounds interesting. The pattern/colors (colours) are a visual delight. I'm impressed when someone sticks to a self-directed notion to knit to a **plan**.

Posted by: Karen at February 4, 2010 6:29 PM

These socks are stunning! I have GOT to become a better sock knitter. Thanks Stephanie for the inspiration. You are a treasure.

Posted by: Teresa at February 4, 2010 6:33 PM

Totally hot!
That sole shot -- whew! (fans self)

Nice fifth position, too, BTW!

(Now you have me intrigued, and I so didn't need another sock pattern to knit....)

Posted by: Cathy-Cate at February 4, 2010 6:35 PM

Absolutely fabulous! You make me want to knit fancy socks even though plain vanilla in fun yarn is usually good enough for me. And yes, they're are sexy -- they've got that "come hither" look!

Posted by: romanknitter at February 4, 2010 6:41 PM

Oh you Yarn Harlot, or should it be Pattern Harlot? I caved, I bought the pattern! Now I have to figure out WHEN I can knit it, but now I can! Thanks for sharing the gorgeousness!!

Posted by: Pat at February 4, 2010 6:47 PM

This pattern went straight to my queue when I saw you post it last week. I'm so glad that you elaborated about the heel construction... I LOVE unique construction details that end up looking somewhat conventional. Keeps things interesting. Thanks for sharing!

Posted by: Liz at February 4, 2010 6:52 PM

I'm all twitterpated. I swear I can hear my dpns calling to me. I'm looking daggers at the shawl I feel so committed to right now. I want to commit project adultery with those socks! Of course, I'm already a serial adulterer. My Great Expectations sweater is languishing in it's project bag, quietly reminding me that spring is coming with glorious days of sweater weather.

Maybe I have time to squeeze in some socks before I go back to my sweater... I need warm feet too, right?

Posted by: Sharon In Michigan at February 4, 2010 7:02 PM

MUST CONQUER SOCK KNITTING! Too many gorgeous patterns and yarn out there. Thank you...travel safely.

Posted by: Leta at February 4, 2010 7:08 PM

OMG, I'm convinced that I must knit this. Thanks a lot.

Posted by: Michelle at February 4, 2010 7:16 PM

That is a very cool construction and those are gorgeous socks.

Posted by: AlisonH at February 4, 2010 7:19 PM

Damn sexy heel/gusset

Posted by: Amelia at February 4, 2010 7:25 PM

Yummers! Sexy heels indeed. :D

Posted by: Claudia at February 4, 2010 7:32 PM

the
HOLY GRAIL of cable sox
You inspire me --to actually follow directions!!!

Posted by: jo-ann at February 4, 2010 7:33 PM

Love those socks! Think I need to make myself a pair.

Posted by: Becky at February 4, 2010 7:33 PM

I just had a flashback--my mom wore stockings with a seam up the back, and one of those garter belt thingies. I'm glad those garments are a thing of the past. My apologies to anyone who may still choose to wear such a contraption. Anyway, the socks are beautiful, and I'd really like to try that heel method.

Posted by: marjorie at February 4, 2010 7:38 PM

isn't sock knitting fun!
anyone else out there making a pair of Valentines Day socks for their sweetheart?

Posted by: Dina at February 4, 2010 7:43 PM

Indeed they are beautiful & sexy.

I love the leaf shapes, & the heel & gusset.

Thanks, again for sharing them :-D

I look forward to February's sock.
-- Aussie Jay xx

Posted by: Jay at February 4, 2010 7:49 PM

The first month's combo is a winner.

Posted by: Gail at February 4, 2010 7:53 PM

How did you get Joe to do the toe-pointing thing? Yowza.

Posted by: Maura from Toronto at February 4, 2010 7:55 PM

Trying to understand the mechanics of the heel. Does any of this mean that there are no stitches to pick up after the heel flap is knit?

Posted by: Evelyn at February 4, 2010 8:05 PM

nice

Posted by: cecilia at February 4, 2010 8:09 PM

super hot!

Posted by: jessica at February 4, 2010 8:15 PM

Yes, totally hot and dead sexy. Nice heel.

Posted by: pdxknitterati at February 4, 2010 8:23 PM

That yarn! The color!! Mmmmmmm!!!

Posted by: JenM at February 4, 2010 8:28 PM

Those are beautiful socks! I want to learn how to do that sooo bad but I just spent the last two hours wrestling with dpns trying to make a hat. Three tries and I changed to circulars. Don't know what I'll do when it's time to decrease -- hope it's not another unfinished project! Dpn's have a mind of their own. I don't get it!

Posted by: Donna at February 4, 2010 8:35 PM

Beautiful socks!

Posted by: Ina at February 4, 2010 8:44 PM

It's beautiful is- especially that heel! The pattern in my queue, but I think it will move closer to the top..

Posted by: janna at February 4, 2010 8:54 PM

Wow. Tres cool. Wow. Me likey.

Posted by: trek at February 4, 2010 9:09 PM

Yep, it's gorgeous.

Posted by: Emily at February 4, 2010 9:22 PM

What I want to know is how many other knitters have purchased the Sleepy Hollow sock pattern in the last, say, 24 hours, and how big a spike that is...

Posted by: melissa at February 4, 2010 9:33 PM

Okay, I'll ask... can you really still have your feet rotate 180 from each other or are there two models in the fourth picture?

Posted by: Kathy at February 4, 2010 9:34 PM

Kathy: Yoga.

Posted by: evalyn at February 4, 2010 9:38 PM

Highly elegant!

Posted by: Cath at February 4, 2010 9:38 PM

Yes, yes, the socks are nice. But I want to know where you found the camera cable.

Posted by: Presbytera at February 4, 2010 9:38 PM

Beautiful socks! But am I the only one who is super-impressed with that perfect 5th-position stance in photo #4? Ballet training somewhere, me thinks.

Posted by: Tess at February 4, 2010 9:47 PM

Such a shame you have to cover those gorgeous socks with shoes....

Posted by: Carla Riggs at February 4, 2010 9:50 PM

I have to agree with whoever said the Johnny Depp of heels... sigh. Sexy... I have a sock on the needles and this may be the heel. The one... I'm so in love.

Posted by: Sarah at February 4, 2010 9:56 PM

I get it. So awesome. I promised myself to knit some vanilla socks next but I might break my promise for that heel. I'm so untrustworthy when faced with temptation.

Posted by: easily entangled at February 4, 2010 10:00 PM

Such a great idea to give yourself a sock club. Love the "kits" you made with the bags, patterns, and yarn! Might have to steal that idea... :)

Posted by: Tammy at February 4, 2010 10:02 PM

Good design is sexy, that is for sure. And, this would be a great approach for those who fear picking up stitches.

Posted by: twinsetellen at February 4, 2010 10:04 PM

Wow. I have an atrocious, itchy, (probably highly contagious) case of sock envy now. That's a pattern worth its price... it's all in the construction, baby! I've turned socks over in my hands, wondering if that sort of construction was possible, and MUST see it in action as it comes off my needles.

Posted by: Ginny Palmieri at February 4, 2010 10:22 PM

Love the socks! I'm off to download the pattern.

Posted by: Meg at February 4, 2010 10:23 PM

Your footing doesn't just bring to mind ballet, that's a spot on PERFECTION of a fifth position. I'm impressed. Almost as impressed (and confused, really) as I was by the heel. I've done about 8 pairs of socks now and have still only done 1) toe up and 2) short row heels. Granted, it took me that long to make those darn short rows come out pretty. I do so intend to expand my horizons.

Posted by: Danni at February 4, 2010 10:24 PM

you make me wish i were a sock knitter. *sigh*

Posted by: Steven A. at February 4, 2010 10:24 PM

Rawr! Those are some sex-ay socks! Glad the camera cable showed up so we could see them in all of their glory!

Posted by: meg at February 4, 2010 10:26 PM

Those are some awesome socks!! Totally love the heel. They're like chocolate and wine with your feet up so you can show them off socks!

Posted by: Jen at February 4, 2010 10:28 PM

Those are some hot socks. Hot. I've never felt this way about a sock.

Posted by: christine at February 4, 2010 10:35 PM

Wasn't going to get the pattern, wasn't going to get the pattern...had to get the pattern.

You know, you ought to post ALL the socks you're doing this year - it could be sort of a Yarn Harlot Virtual sock club.

I'm doing something similar - too many relatives like handknit socks. Fortunately or unfortunately, most of them want "plain vanilla" ones.

Posted by: Lisa in Los Angeles at February 4, 2010 10:38 PM

Of course we don't mind. You're the Harlot, aren't you?

Posted by: Amy S. at February 4, 2010 10:38 PM

Dang, Lady, but now I have to add another sock pattern to my queue! LOVE how your's turned out!!

Posted by: Nathalie at February 4, 2010 10:49 PM

Why wear shoes? Oh, because it's winter and you live in a cold climate. Amazing, fantastical socks, wish I could make may fingers do that!

Posted by: Eve Linn at February 4, 2010 11:29 PM

Truly the Gerard Butler of socks Steph...

On a scale of 1-10, (your old vanilla sock being, say a 4) how complicated would you say the pattern is?

Posted by: Lora at February 4, 2010 11:57 PM

By the way....
LOVE Presbytera!

Posted by: Lora at February 5, 2010 12:00 AM

Those ARE dead sexy socks! Nicely done.

Posted by: The Dingo at February 5, 2010 12:12 AM

Those socks are so tempting me to rush out and buy that pattern!

Posted by: Diane at February 5, 2010 12:22 AM

I agree, the socks are hawt!

Posted by: Peglett at February 5, 2010 12:42 AM

How cool are those socks!?!? The end product sure makes all the oopses and woes worth it. You and your sexy socks are truly inspirational...I've set about organizing my stash and projects (no socks this time around, though. Well, maybe just one pair....) similarly to your sock club. My DH is about to pass out!!

Posted by: Ruthie at February 5, 2010 1:11 AM

Socks can be VERY sexy! That yarn is absolutely gorgeous, and I want some of it for my own stash. Lovely pattern, I'd say a perfect match between the two.

Posted by: Jessica at February 5, 2010 1:43 AM

um, Gretcheng, and Stephanie - well, but, that's how I do my heel/gusset increases when I do toe-up socks, well, sorta! I mean, I do the gusset increases as I go round and round, then do the short-row, back and forth, gobbling up gusset stitches until I'm back to total 72 - I think. Except tonight when I also had to take back 12 rows (that is -- rip! while the KnitGang watched in horrified fascination.) Hey, I just said if Stephanie can do it - under her own duress - I can too. Yarn Harlot, my mentor! (ok, that does sound stalker-ish, sorry)

Posted by: Jenni in Edmonton at February 5, 2010 1:46 AM

They are beautiful! :-)

Posted by: Llyn at February 5, 2010 2:08 AM

oooooooo you are terrible.....I`ve asked for the pattern and suitable wool for my birthday.

Posted by: sarah barron at February 5, 2010 3:30 AM

Wowza! Love the heel very much. Is this possibly a new technique that can be adapted to other socks? Do we have a miraculous innovation?

Posted by: Joy at February 5, 2010 4:04 AM

Ohh they are gorgeous and the heel looks fab.

Posted by: Laura at February 5, 2010 4:07 AM

Oh yes....they're delish.

Posted by: Katherine at February 5, 2010 4:35 AM

I love the socks. I also love the sock kit idea. I have soooo much sock wool ('cause it doesn't count as stash increase) that making kits is a wonderful idea. If only the other girls in my knitting circle were into making socks... it would be fun to have a REAL live sock club.

Posted by: Mylene at February 5, 2010 5:02 AM

Hey you found your camera cable! Hurray!! Mine tends to go off on jaunts all by itself too so I completely understand. Great socks! I have to tell you that that sock yarn (awesome dye job!) and that pattern are just perfect together. I love the way the subtle color changes almost make the leaves look like they are moving. Really lovely!!! Also, I think that your self imposed sock club is a really brilliant idea! I think I'm going to try it right after the Ravelympics!

Posted by: Dyepotgirl at February 5, 2010 5:09 AM

hi harlot. The socks are so cool. Any decision/plan for Harlot Knitting Olympics?

Posted by: purlbump at February 5, 2010 6:13 AM

Stunning socks and yes the Johnny Depp of socks! The leaf pattern is lovely enough on its own to be tempting, but you're right the heel/gusset construction is just fantastic. Thank you for all the photo shots and many angles. How's the bohus coming? I'm having gratuitous shots withdrawal... And I'm unusually adrift in what project to knit for the Olympics. I should probably just finish some projects, but that's not very exciting. I'm looking at shawl patterns, but maybe a pair of socks...

Posted by: Carrie in northern NY at February 5, 2010 6:49 AM

Whoa! That is sexy!

Posted by: Riin at February 5, 2010 6:59 AM

Great socks, the details are beautiful off to make my second purchase from Oceanwinds in as many days. Thanks for sharing

Posted by: Claire at February 5, 2010 8:00 AM

Lovely, lovely. I will be getting this pattern just for that heel method. The leaves will be a charming bonus.

Posted by: Sabine at February 5, 2010 8:23 AM

Beautiful socks!

Posted by: Marie at February 5, 2010 8:31 AM

Oooh. I love them too - I'm right there with you when it comes to attention to detail. I even love how the design in the back of the leg disappears perfectly into the ridges of the heel. Just love that. Clearly, you have started a new craze.

Posted by: Ameleh at February 5, 2010 8:41 AM

Love the color!

Posted by: Rebecca in NC at February 5, 2010 8:46 AM

I'm not even a sock knitter (yet, I'm sure it'll get me at some point) and those do seem like awesome heels. Thanks for sharing them with us!

I'm still debating whether or not to make the Pretty Thing in camel or cashmere...

Posted by: Michelle Fobbs at February 5, 2010 8:46 AM

I loathe and despise picking up the heel stitches, so a top down pattern that circumvents that step is well worth the price to me!

Posted by: Norma at February 5, 2010 8:47 AM

It's a thing of beauty! And the way you talk about it, it sounds so *easy* I'm almost ready to try knitting a sock! Almost......

Posted by: Martha at February 5, 2010 8:54 AM

So I loved the sock as you were showing it.

Then I got to the heel detail picture and...

Yeah... serious sock lust. Seriously. Lust. For a sock.

Posted by: Sue at February 5, 2010 9:04 AM

I totally get your facination with the perfect construction and attention to detail. I feel the same way about Jared Flood's Druid Mittens - the intricate pattern, the cool "saddle" closing - even the thumb has a perfect coordinating pattern on both sides - I can't stop making them! I have a million sock patterns/projects - but that heel thing may force me to try this one as well!! You've hooked me again drat you!

Posted by: Jackie from Canada at February 5, 2010 9:23 AM

It is a beautiful sock and the heel is genius.

Posted by: Dorothy at February 5, 2010 9:32 AM

I typically knit toe-up socks, but these are so gorgeous (and, yes, sexy) that I had to have the pattern. And to think I wasn't going to spend any money on knitting related things this month . . . so much for that idea.

Posted by: Karen at February 5, 2010 9:33 AM

Best.Heel.Ever.

And this from a toe-up, afterthought heel sock knitter. OMG, looks like I'll have to break out of my box and knit a differnt kind of sock.

Posted by: Sally at February 5, 2010 9:39 AM

Forgive me, for I have lusted after a knitter's sock.

Posted by: Kim at February 5, 2010 9:45 AM

I would be interested to know how many patterns are sold after all of us lusting after the sock. I bought mine!

Posted by: Aimee at February 5, 2010 9:51 AM

You're right. That IS a sexy heel. (And only knitters would not be talking about some kind of ankle-breaking stiletto heeled shoe when they say that!)

Posted by: LisaDinPA at February 5, 2010 10:10 AM

Must resist temptation to play hookey, go stash diving, order this pattern, and cast on.

Must do the work that enables knitting & associated purchases. And already have 2 pairs of socks on the needles. Time to queue this up in my "must do's."

Posted by: Sarah JS at February 5, 2010 10:11 AM

That pattern is GORGEOUS. It makes me want to cast it on RIGHT NOW. I have some Wollmeise that would totally be worthy of a pattern like that...

Posted by: Mandi at February 5, 2010 10:16 AM

That is an awesome heel - I know, that has been said already, but it's true.
And the yarn is a wonderful color for socks, too. Perfect pair.

Will you top that with the February selection? Waiting to see.....

Posted by: teresa at February 5, 2010 10:22 AM

Do you think that is a faster heel and gusset or do you think it all comes out in the wash? It really is a neat little heel.

Posted by: Krista M at February 5, 2010 10:23 AM

That is one bad ass heel. Might have to buy the pattern just for that!

Posted by: Nancy at February 5, 2010 10:33 AM

Those are very lovely socks. I want some now.

Posted by: Sarah B. at February 5, 2010 10:34 AM

Sock porn!

Posted by: Lety at February 5, 2010 11:27 AM

That *is* a dead sexy gusset heel.

Posted by: Jennifer at February 5, 2010 11:38 AM

Those socks are GORGEOUS. And such an elegant heel...must try it.

Posted by: rosie at February 5, 2010 11:40 AM

Wow....freekin' awesome socks! Looks like they were worth the aggravation...really beautiful pattern.

Posted by: Val at February 5, 2010 11:44 AM

they're on FIRE!!!!

Posted by: Mary Kay at February 5, 2010 11:46 AM

Those are ADORABLE. I love how curvy and sexy they are on the bottom. Yeah! Show off those curvy feet!

Posted by: Jenny at February 5, 2010 11:59 AM

Me: oooooh, aaaaahhhhh. Husband: what? Me: Oh yes, very nice, I love the way you do that. Husbnd: What are you doing? Me: that is so hot, I gotta get it now. Husband: (Hopeful) What?
Me: This sock and pattern. Husband: (not so hopeful) "oh"

Posted by: Sherry at February 5, 2010 12:03 PM

hmmm -- turning a heel while being able to continue round and round? That might solve my gets-stuck-in-the-middle-sock-itis I seem to suffer from. I'm off to take a good look at the pattern!

Posted by: Lori N at February 5, 2010 12:25 PM

You just put "sexy" and "sock" in the same blog post. You will probably get some really humourous search engine hits :)

Posted by: Christy D. at February 5, 2010 12:45 PM

Love the colorway, so subtle and beautiful. The pattern is way intrigueing. Why didn't we do gussets this way before?

Posted by: Jeremy at February 5, 2010 12:46 PM

Groovy!

Posted by: SockPixie at February 5, 2010 1:08 PM

Those socks look great! The pattern and the description seem a little intimidating although inviting (naughty and tempting). Thanks for sharing!

Posted by: pat at February 5, 2010 1:36 PM

Sizzling! What a great heel. I love those socks.

Posted by: Doris at February 5, 2010 1:43 PM

Those are dead sexy. I don't think my husband will every properlu understand those words coming out of my mouth, but they are.

Posted by: Ashley M. at February 5, 2010 1:53 PM

Sexy, those sox are hot, hot, hot. I'm casting on for them tonight!

Posted by: msesq at February 5, 2010 2:05 PM

The heel is mesmerizing... I keep staring at it. I've come back to your site today twice just to look at it. Gorgeous!

Posted by: Francesca at February 5, 2010 2:06 PM

Those should be featured in a Victoria's Secret catalog. I love them.

Posted by: Sam at February 5, 2010 2:08 PM

Lovely sock, and a very cool heel technique--It took me a few seconds to figure out how you did that front/back pose. It's a great shot. I think if I tried to do that I might get stuck that way!

Posted by: Jody at February 5, 2010 2:09 PM

Love the sock pattern. I'm trying to learn to knit socks. I love hand knitted socks and thought I would give a try, any suggests for a beginner.

Posted by: Janie at February 5, 2010 3:22 PM

I'm not a sock knitter -- but even I will admit that is one seriously good-looking sock. And the colors are quite lovely as well.

Posted by: Shel at February 5, 2010 3:30 PM

I just wanted to say thanks, for a lovely description of that sock, for making me feel part of the in-club (because I understood what you were talking about!) and for making me want to knit that heel (not to mention the showy leaf-ish pattern). Really helped improve my day. Thank you.

Posted by: Jenni at February 5, 2010 3:43 PM

These socks are just beautiful. You inspire and challenge me to want to be both a better knitter and a better person. I just read the last few blog posts including the one on your "blogiversary" (I'm playing catch up) and I just want to note how grateful I am that you blog for us to read, and that you give back to the world around us and encourage us to do so too. Thanks so much. It really does matter.

Posted by: Jacquie at February 5, 2010 3:55 PM

Love the socks, love the heel, but really, really love sock photos with requisite sun streaming through the windows. Well done!

Posted by: Laura at February 5, 2010 4:56 PM

Those socks have gone onto my to-knit list. Thanks for the beautiful photos!

Posted by: M Henry at February 5, 2010 5:00 PM

Upon further reflection (and w/o looking through archives), I think these are my all time favorites! Luckily, I think any heather yarn would work. Kudos

Posted by: Leta at February 5, 2010 5:11 PM

They're absolutely gorgeous!!
Susan

Posted by: Miss Maddie's at February 5, 2010 5:28 PM

That pattern in that yarn on those needles should be a body suit. You should be able to wear that from neck to toe so everybody could see it all the time.
*sigh* pretty, pretty, pretty, and, yes, dead sexy!

Posted by: flitter at February 5, 2010 5:42 PM

Looks like perfect yarn for those socks. Not sure if I can do a heel as you described through. I don't how good a knitter I am to try it.

Posted by: Toni at February 5, 2010 7:28 PM

Wow! I am totally taken. Just downloaded the pattern. We are expecting a foot of snow tonight - I should be able to make some good headway on this by Monday!

Posted by: Shelley at February 5, 2010 9:05 PM

Beautiful socks! I have added them to my queue!! Love the idea of making your own sock club. Po boy sock club!

Posted by: Christi at February 5, 2010 10:54 PM

I am so totally in love with the term "self-imposed sock club." It makes me smile every time I see it. Thanks for that.

Posted by: Susan Sedro at February 6, 2010 5:16 AM

OMG I love these socks!!!

Posted by: Nicole M at February 6, 2010 5:57 AM

Too hot to handle! These are SO going on my "to knit" list! :)

Posted by: Beth Rasmussen at February 6, 2010 11:28 AM

How did you get your feet to line up in opposite directions? i.e. in the fourth picture, you have the heel of one foot right next to the toes of the other foot, which means the heel of the other foot is lined up with the toes of the first foot. Huh?

Posted by: Magdalene Teoh at February 6, 2010 12:50 PM

I've been working on valentines and had to take a break and your blog is a nice break. Love the socks. I'm to the toe on the first sock of the new year and I wish I had your heel. Love them.

Posted by: DianeK at February 6, 2010 1:26 PM

Well, goodness! thank you for elucidating the wonder of that heel. I hadn't really understood how fabulous (an innovative) it is! Now I gotta have that pattern too. So... gee... thanks! (I think)

Nice socks, those!

Posted by: Shelda at February 6, 2010 1:42 PM

Wow - pretty socks with a seriously interesting construction... thanks for pointing them out!

Posted by: Liz at February 6, 2010 2:03 PM

I just fell head over heels in love with this sock. I am still working on my first pair of socks and but am lusting after yours. They are drop dead sexy in my book.

Posted by: Willow at February 6, 2010 3:22 PM

Love them! Can't wait to see what is next!

Posted by: Louise at February 6, 2010 3:56 PM

Well. Hubba, hubba.

I'm just working on my first pair of socks, so these are WAY beyond my skill at the moment... but it's much like lusting after a gorgeous but unobtainable guy. Still satisfying. Mmmm.

Posted by: Soozcat at February 6, 2010 5:59 PM

What I love about your pattern is the fact it's reversable and the reverse can be cabled! Give it a try! Cheers From Resort Village Candle Lake Saskatchewan... Sandra Dogger Klassen

Posted by: Sandra Dogger Klassen at February 7, 2010 1:04 PM

Great photos! I definitely want to try that heel. I recently released a free hat pattern on Ravelry (Falling Leaves Hat) with a similar look. I'll have to make the socks to match! Thanks for sharing.

Posted by: Shannon at February 7, 2010 2:59 PM

Love them! Gotta get this pattern.

Posted by: Claire at February 7, 2010 4:06 PM

Ok, you have officially inspired me to knit a pair of these for myself. The photos & descriptions are fabulous and its been a while since I've knot anything for myself. Thanks for the inspiration!

Posted by: Pam Migliore at February 7, 2010 4:18 PM

oooooh, that is sexay.

Posted by: Steph VW at February 7, 2010 6:44 PM

so, how do you find out about all of these great sock patterns?

based on your description of the heel alone, i'll be knitting a pair of these. i wouldn't care that the leg design is almost as sexy as the heel. i would knit this heel with your plain vanilla sock attached to it, even though it has been years since i knitted a plain sock.

Posted by: dana at February 7, 2010 11:02 PM

Your socks are beautiful! I noticed and admired the custom fit right away even before reading your post. Guess us knitters do acquire an eye for that sort of thing. Another 'sexy' sock that I've admired is the 'Lacy Bed Socks' by Jennie Atkinson in her book Romantic Style. Have often thought that I would some day make those when I actually learn how to knit socks. In 10+ years of knitting, I have never knit a sock. It's on my list of things to do. I really love yours. The leafy pattern is gorgeous. And your book 'Yarn Harlot' made me laugh more than any other book EVER! In fact, I think I'll take it out and read it again soon. Cheerio!

Posted by: Lisa Osborne at February 8, 2010 9:16 AM

Sexy, indeed. I'm also quite impressed with the photo showing both the heel and toe facing the camera at the same time. It's been twenty years since I was limber enough for such a pose.

Posted by: macbeth at February 8, 2010 12:18 PM

Is there a name for that kind of heel? Like the 200+ people before me I'd love to try it.

Posted by: RP at February 8, 2010 4:12 PM

Your resounding SATISFACTION is palpable from way down here.

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Posted by: regitaf at February 8, 2010 9:20 PM

I love these socks and am trying VERY hard not to purchase both pattern and yarn (thankfully her Etsy shop is empty). But one thing struck me: photo 4 from the top: how did you take that photo that seems to have your feet pointing in opposite directions? It's brilliant of course because it offers two simultaneous and opposite views of the sock, but HOW?
Is no one obsessing about this like I am?

Posted by: stitchkitty at February 10, 2010 9:05 AM

I'm a little bit behind, but just wanted to pop in and say what a brilliant idea your personal sock club is! I hope it continues to be successful. =)

Posted by: ashpags at February 10, 2010 7:19 PM