Eye of Partridge Heel

All of us who love to knit socks are very familiar with the well known 'Slip Stitch Heel'. A great example of it can be found in our March, 2008 Stitch Archives. But have you tried the Eye of Partridge Heel? By just alternating the slip stitches on the right side of every row creates an interesting and most attractive lattice work heel flap. I find that the Eye of Partridge Heel is very sturdy, wears well but still has that extra 'give and stretch' allowing it to mould to the width and shape of almost any heel. The Eye of Partridge Heel is easy and fun to do so I think this style of heel is a 'must' for your next pair of socks, give it a try.

Pattern: Heel Flap
 
Yarn: Your favorite sock yarn. I have chosen a solid color but this stitch is beautiful when done in a variegated yarn. Each stitch stands out and forms a very unique look.
 
Needles: I like to use 2.25 mm needles. The smaller the size needles provides more durability. It also gives your socks a much nicer finished look.
 
Stitches: The # of stitches is to your own desired width of heel flap but you 'must' use an even # of stitches. For example: 28, 30, 32 etc. 
 
Row 1: (right side) * SL 1, K 1*, repeat across, ending with K 1.
Row 2: and all even rows: SL 1, purl across row.
Row 3: SL 2, * K 1, SL 1,* repeat across row ending with K 2.
Row 4: repeat Row 2.
 
Repeat these 4 rows until your heel flap is the desired length, ending with the 4th row.

-- Karen Simmons