Eye of Partridge for Sock Heel Flaps // Technique Tuesday

[@doadirockwell9317]

I just want to say one more time that you are the best knitting instructor on the web. I learn something new every time I watch.

[@donnazimmerman3160]

Thank you for the excellent instructions regarding this heel method and how to calculate heel length. Very clear and easy to follow, and love how you explain the options as well.

[@billmcinnis5217]

Laurrie Sobie here - I want all my socks to be different - or - have different or new techniques used, so they are unique or NOT of the norm. Why would I want every pair with the same toe, heel, pattern - whatever. I saw the eye of Partridge pattern - somewhere and liked the texture and the fact that it looked like it would still give a comfort padding on the heel sole and the heel flap. I did hear pros and cons, but I had watched a couple other of your tutorials and found them articulate and definitely helpful to me. Over the last couple of weeks I have learned quite a lot of techniques I had never done - or in some cases, known about. The tutorials of yours and a couple of others have been professional and VERY satisfying for me to watch and try - AND include in socks I am currently playing with. I'll be back as I am sure there is much more to add to my knitting vocabulary. Thank you.

[@appledress22]

I’ve come back to this video so many times. Perfect explanation as always! Thank you for sharing your knowledge 😊

[@mistyblue5312]

Came back for a refresher on the “math” … thanks for a very comprehensive explanation as always. You rock Rox! ❤

[@TheMetatronGirl]

I realize I’m a year late to this particular video, but I have to say that I love your shirt!!! I f I had a dollar for every time I’ve said that, I’d be very wealthy, indeed! Also, you’re absolutely the best knitting instructor on KZbin, if not the whole internet. I’m slowly working toward my master knitter pin, and I look to you, first if I need a brush up or help with a technique. Thanks ever so much for all you do.

[@k.meldgaard3893]

It’s So good to see this pattern again. My mother taught it to me way back in the 70’s. It’s not just pretty - it also very durable because of the two layers of yarn.

[@platinumorange1]

7:43 I am so glad i watched this before attempting the eye of partridge heel. I would have had NO idea how i screwed up by just substituting one heel for another 😂

[@wdbreezy]

Awesome t-shirt, Roxanne ! I live alone, but have said that to my dogs before. 😀 I hope to see you at the 2021 Minnesota State Fair.

[@feliciaweatherspoon2303]

Thank you, Roxanne for sharing that technique!! ❤

[@clairewyndham1971]

I have wanted to do this pattern for many years

[@stitchknit72]

I like the look of both heel stitch and eye of partridge. To me, EOP is a feminine look while the slip stitch flap is unisex. Thank you for this clear explanation of the difference in compression and how to account for that in the picked up stitches.

[@CatFromFL]

You are one of the finest knitting instructors on the web. You are very knowledgeable add in succinct, clear and show excellent examples of what you are teaching are all pluses. Please join us as a member of ChiaoGoo Divas (a facebook group) we would love to have you.

[@kathydehnel6172]

Thank you. Amazing how such a simple change can be so pretty. Definitely doing this heel on the socks I’m knitting now.

[@judycarlsonlayton8458]

Thanks for your help, I now understand this heel better.

[@pamelajwatson988]

I came across the heel stitch for the first time last year, when creating a pattern from a client's Vintage Christmas Stocking. I like the look and feel of this. Now seeing the EOP heel stitch, I like it even better!! Thank you for your wonderfully clear explanations, Rox! I am finishing up a sweater test knit and am excited to begin my socks!!! I might be a week later in getting started, but I will definitely get there!!!!! :-)

[@jandroid1962]

Love the t-shirt. It's never just one more row lol.

[@annettegraff8323]

Love this review! The second pair I knitted after a universal sock class fit me perfect So I've measured and made note of this vid . I've got big feet and purchased socks don't cut it . Either shrink or too loose if men's socks . I love working with wool and now looking to work on better tension and finishing TY for sharing !

[@bettylohr7014]

Thank you for great explanation 😊

[@TeeLeigh66]

So pretty! Thank you for doing this tutorial, I'm going to try this out.

[@khimbalee5087]

Question: I like Eye of P, but is heel stitch the sounder choice? I noticed the two swatches differ in width, are they interchangeable? And, thank you, your explanations are so clear, they answer even the little questions I don’t realize I had.

[@RoxanneRichardson]

They are interchangeable. Heel stitch contracts when it's relaxed, but it stretches when worn. For a narrow heel that doesn't need to accommodate as much stretch, heel stitch might be better, but you'd have to try it out on a sock and see what you think. EoP is more compressed vertically, so typically you use the same number of rows for the heel, even though it looks shorter, because it will stretch vertically when worn. In its relaxed state, if you knit EoP to the actual length of your heel, you'd end up with quite a few more sts after picking up for the gusset, which would make the gusset too large at the start.

[@angiesusi9891]

Thanks for sharing this technique, I’ll have to try it out on the next sock I knit. I like the maroon sock in this video, is that your pattern ?

[@DAYBROK3]

I am looking for something to knit the bottom of the foot, might try this.

[@SusanAverello]

I love the Eye of partridge st but when ever I do it, I just get a bumpy looking stockinette looking fabric, I don't get the nice pattern. What could I be doing wrong? Knitting too tight, too loose? Please help. I love the look and just can't seem to achieve it even when following the pattern exactly.

[@RoxanneRichardson]

It can take working several repeats before you really see the pattern appear in the fabric, and even then, it's subtle. It is very close to being stockinette fabric. Every column of sts is knit 3 rows out of every 4, whereas with heel stitch, half the columns are worked every row and the other half are worked 1 row out of every 2. If you think it might have to do with being too tight or too loose, then try a swatch where you work 4 or 5 repeats with one needle, then go up a needle size for 4 or 5 repeats, and then go down a needle size for 4 or 5 repeats.

[@Pluviophile218]

Wow! This is great information. I am addicted to socks but am not fluent yet. I started out on dons, then learned 2aat on 2 circulars. Nice, but after 3 pairs I left it for a while to concentrate on fair isle knitting using both hands. Now I lost my 2aat sock mojo and I'm making a pair one at a time on 2 circulars. I am determined to get back to 2aat. Loved your video on the tricks for picking up gusset stitches with a dpn and no holes at the gusset. Your instruction is so very clear. I learn good stuff from each video. Question; do you knit socks 1 at a time or 2 at a time? Just curious.

[@EV-D-10]

Thank you for this tutorial!

[@elainebos]

Do you a video that shows how to pick up the garter edge stitches on the edge of a sock flap? I’m not sure if you pick up between the ridges, or on the bump at the end of the row?

[@RoxanneRichardson]

I have a video on various ways of picking up sts along a finished edge, which includes how to handle garter bumps. It's in the Picking Up Stitches playlist on my channel. You can find a link in the video description to the section on picking up along a garter stitch edge.

[@hollyedwards1396]

Thanks for the video. Where did you get that t-shirt? I love it. I say that all the time to my family!!

[@RoxanneRichardson]

I have no idea where I got it. Maybe in the yarn market of a knitting event? It was years ago.

[@vivienneclarke2421]

I say it to my dogs😂They wanna go out....just let me finish this row! They want dinner~just let me finish this row lol .......

[@leena9040]

I´m new to knitting and really like your clear explanations and great video work! I have a question about the two-row setup. The pattern is a four-row pattern with a two-row setup. Do you repeat the setup before each repetition of the pattern or is the setup really just a one-time thing? My flap doesn´t look right.

[@RoxanneRichardson]

Setup rows are always a one-time thing. If they were to occur every time, they wouldn't be a set-up, they'd be part of a 6-row repeat.

[@leena9040]

@@RoxanneRichardson Wow, that was fast. That makes sense. Thanks! Learning the knitting vernacular will also take some time.

[@1lisalopez]

Would this be a good stitch for children’s socks? It sounds like the sock stretches as their foot grows.

[@zoeisphere2483]

Thanks for this! I've had some trouble with EoP flaps that don't look that different from plain stockinette, even though I know I'm technically doing them properly (slips are always purlwise). I haven't been able to figure out why this is - do you have any thoughts?

[@RoxanneRichardson]

You aren't alone. I think it's just a matter of how the yarn is spun and plied. The yarn I used in the video is a very tightly spun yarn (Opal). It's a subtle pattern. The pink sock in the video sometimes looks very stockinette-like, especially from some angles.

[@zoeisphere2483]

@@RoxanneRichardson Ah that could be it. If memory serves, I've mostly used Drops Fabel on my EoPs. I'll look through my projects to see what had more or less success. Thanks!

[@Dreambarks]

@@RoxanneRichardson I wondered if I was supposed to tighten up on the slip stitches in order to have the dimpled effect.

[@Just_Sara]

@@Dreambarks I'm in the same boat here, I have flat spots in my heel and I can't figure out why, I just know the flat spots are usually close to the sides of the heel.

[@zoeprimrose2309]

Thanks!

[@RoxanneRichardson]

You bet!

[@jaejay673]

Wonderful information. Thank you for putting this together. What was the pattern you used for the burgundy sock?

[@RoxanneRichardson]

The fuchsia sock? That's Bernice www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/bernice-3

[@Barbara-zv1wi]

Love this video and the math associated for this pretty heel. Question: Do the two set up rows count in the in the overall row count? I need 44 rows for my heel, so do I start the count after the set up rows or include them. Thanks so much!! 😊

[@RoxanneRichardson]

I typically include them. 2 rows, one way or the other, won't matter much!

[@Barbara-zv1wi]

Ahhh, I get it. Thank you for your fast reply!!

[@corrinewilkins760]

Thank you for this video showing very clearly how to knit the EOP heel flap. Having used and worn both, do you have any preference for one or the other beside the aesthectics?

[@RoxanneRichardson]

Well, heel stitch is easier to remember and keep track of, because RS rows are always the same. EoP sometimes doesn't show up all that well, depending on the yarn, so in some cases, it doesn't feel like it's worth the effort.

[@susangrizzle6618]

What pattern is the red sock. I would like to purchase it. I love yourFriday tips. Thanks Susan

[@RoxanneRichardson]

My Ravelry project page for the sock is here: ravel.me/Rox/b2 You can find a link to the pattern from my project page.

[@kimberlyuehara6711]

Sorry, I know this video is about 2 years old, but I’m wondering if you have a pattern for the pink sock you modeled? Or could you please direct me to instructions for the pattern on the gusset? I’ve never seen that before (I’m a self taught knitter) & it is so cool!!

[@RoxanneRichardson]

My Ravelry project page for that sock is here: www.ravelry.com/projects/Rox/bernice You'll find a link to the pattern I used from my project page.

[@diannefitzmaurice9813]

This a 'bit' like the X stitch to reinforce the heel . I have been looking for this stitch forever it seems but have not found it . It is made on a pair of baby socks I found at a sale and have not been able to come across it. If you know this stitch and could share how it is done it would be most appreciated.

[@RoxanneRichardson]

The best way to identify a stitch would be to post a photo of what you are trying to replicate in the Ravelry forums (the Patterns forum would be your best best). Even the most common stitch patterns do not have standardized names, so a photo is the best way to get it figured out.

[@juliedustin5829]

So why do I not get a more pronounced Eye of Partridge? You can barely see the bumps. I am using size 1 needle and fingering weight yarn. I am doing it right, not off with my rows. I'm a thrower with my yarn would that make a difference???

[@RoxanneRichardson]

Some yarns will show the pattern more than others. It's not likely that your knitting style has anything to do with it.

[@mandyrawlinson7687]

This is so helpful! What brand of needles are you using? Thank you for your videos - I watch them all the time!!

[@RoxanneRichardson]

No idea what brand those are. They're probably 15-30 years old. Inox, maybe? Aero?

[@christinelowery2415]

Is this a stronger heel or would you recommend reinforcement thread?

[@alejandrarosales7836]

Can you make a video that demonstrates how to pick up the garter stitch edge eye of partridge heel flap?

[@RoxanneRichardson]

Try this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3-8poFji9lsaLM The PU along a vertical garter stitch edge starts at 6:31

[@maxolol]

I was wondering if the two-row set-up creates a hole when you re-join in the round. I am also curious re the 2 slipped sts at the beginning of Row 1 of the 4-row repeating sequence. I understand that this establishes the alternating pattern but why not sl-k-then repeat k-sl to the last two sts? (which is what is recommended in my beginner level book on knitting socks). And finally, I think the E of P flap will be more comfortable to wear because I am knitting a very stiff sock. (double-stranded fingering wt. yarn on 2mm needles at 8 sts per inch and 12 rows per inch). With a 3.5" heel height at a St st gauge of 8 st per inch one would knit a total of 56 rows (excluding the 2 row set-up), correct? Thanks! I owe you more coffee!

[@RoxanneRichardson]

The two-row set up establishes 1 sl st at each end, which gets picked up. You can also use the trick of 2 lifted incs at the corners, which are decreased out, in order to prevent a hole (this two-row set up is not unique to EoP). The selvedges must be slipped. The stitch pattern occurs between those selvedges. You can arrange the stitch pattern in whatever way pleases you, including working it over an odd number of sts, if you prefer (I usually work it between a border of several garter sts at each end of the row. Any time you have an idea that you want to try, I would suggest trying it. If you can't understand why it didn't work out, ask for feedback to see what might have worked better. If you have a question about choosing between two methods, try them both and see which you like best. There are always multiple ways of doing things.

[@sallybyers-downing8216]

On the garter edge how do I pick up the stitches for the gusset please

[@RoxanneRichardson]

This video explains a variety of pick up methods, including how to pick up garter bumps, starting at 6:51 kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3-8poFji9lsaLM

[@samanthanicholson9015]

Couldn't the the heel flap pattern be carried down to the actual heel under heath so there a little fusion in that area as well as the pad of the foot area? Thank you.

[@RoxanneRichardson]

Sure. Lots of knitters carry the heel pattern into the heel turn. You have to be mindful of maintaining the pattern while working the short rows, but it can certainly be done.

[@carolstenning6047]

Great stitch to knit but how many sts do you have to have on your needle to get started

[@RoxanneRichardson]

The pattern is a multiple of 2 sts.

[@monicalarose7980]

That fuschia lace sock is fabulous - is there a pattern?

[@RoxanneRichardson]

Here's the link to my Ravelry project page for the socks, where you can find the pattern link, etc. www.ravelry.com/projects/Rox/bernice

[@pheeinpa52]

Hi Roxanne, I have a question please about the EOP heel flap with the garter stitch frame. When doing the set up rows, are they done on all 64 stitches or done on half of them? Thank you so much!!!

[@RoxanneRichardson]

The set up is done across the heel stitches only.

[@pheeinpa52]

Thank you so much❤

[@nancylebrun9953]

Can i use that stitch for top of sock and ankle section?

[@RoxanneRichardson]

You'd have to do some conversion of WS rows to RS rows in order to knit the st patt in the round, but I don't suppose there's any reason why you couldn't use it. It has a very compressed row gauge, so you'd end up knitting way more rounds to get the length you want than with other stitch patterns. The only way to know is to try it and see what you think.

[@sandracasagrande3825]

Hi rox...can i follow your directions for this heel if im doing toe up?

[@RoxanneRichardson]

It's meant to be used when knitting a heel flap, prior to turning the heel (for cuff down). If you're doing toe up, then you'd need to use a toe-up method for producing the heel turn and heel flap, but once you got to the heel flap portion, there's no reason you couldn't use this stitch pattern.

[@enacrt]

If I'm following a patter for a sock that has stockinette for the heel flap and want to convert it to eop, do I need to add more rows? Sorry, I'm new to knitting and sometimes I get easily confused.

[@RoxanneRichardson]

Patterns are designed and written based on formulas that may or may not actually fit the individual who will wear the sock. This video explains how to knit an EoP heel flap that will fit the sock recipient. The video explained how to calculate the heel flap length you need, based on your measurements, and included a link to a video on how to take those measurements, if you don't know how to do it.

[@hilaritysmailbox580]

How do you determine the correct heel flap length you need?

[@RoxanneRichardson]

I have a few videos on determining heel length, as well as my tutorial on cuff down socks, called August Sock KAL. I'll give you a few links: How to measure for a sock: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnzanmavf7SBbas Using heel diagonal to calculate a better fitting flap kzbin.info/www/bejne/bqS7qWCVn6-sY8U August Sock KAL tutorial on Ravelry (more detailed measuring and calculating information, with information on how to modify different areas of the sock for a better fit; plus options for different types of heels : www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/august-sock-kal

[@christinemchugh8380]

Hi, my heel length is 3 inches and my row guage is 10 per inch..... 60 rows sounds an awful lot. Am I calculating wrong?

[@RoxanneRichardson]

You calculate based on your stitch gauge not row gauge.

[@christinemchugh8380]

Roxanne Richardson yes! I am a dummy, it’s because you were talking about the rows I had it in my head. Thank you so much😊

[@amyweinstein1740]

😎

[@toodie535]

why is this video showing up on someone else's channel?? (Last Homely House East of The Sea)

[@RoxanneRichardson]

Anyone can add a video to a playlist. You can make your own playlist that consists of, say, videos about short row sock heels, which were made by 20 different people. The video doesn't actually exist on their channel, it's really just a pointer. Most people who post videos of their own create playlists that consist of videos they made that are on a similar topic. She may have accidentally added this video to her playlist, intending to add it to a different playlist (or not intending to add it to a playlist at all)

[@toodie535]

@@RoxanneRichardson I see. (looked like a youtube mistake, as Kate doesn't use any commercials so it looked out of place).