Magic Loop Sock

[Diamond]

I am using the magic loop to knit socks. I just finished turning the heel and finished by k20. I have 36 sts waiting on cable (instep sts).

Picking up Gusset Sts:
"Pick up 18st along side of heel flap, plus on twisted st picked up at gusset - instep st. Use other needle to knit remaining 18 instep sts, place marker, pick up one twisted st at gusset-instep corner and 18 more along heel flap. Knit 10 heel turn sts onto this needle, so that you have a total of 47sts on each needle".

I am confused on which needle to use first. Do I start with the needle with my 20sts or my needle with no sts to pick up sts? Overrall, can someone explain which needle to use to get back in the round using ML.

Thanks in advance.

[dakatzmeow]

i find it much easier to knit socks using short-row heels and toes. 2 circs or magic loop, short-rows are the BEST! i'm sorry i can't help you with your dilemma unless i can tempt you to try the short rows.

[knitqueen]

This is how I do it. The needle that currently has your heel turn stitches on it, as well as your working yarn, is the one that you want to start picking up stitches with. Pick up along the first heel flap edge, then set up exactly how you would to start a new round using magic loop. Pull out the needle and start your "round" (though not technically the beginning of the round), working across the instep stitches. Now from here, it's always a bit awkward I find....usually I pull the same needle out again, leaving the just worked instep stitches on the cable, and pick up the last heel flap edge. Now set up again as though you're starting a new round, pull out the back needle tip, work half of the stitches that you had left from your heel turn, now pull ALL of the stitches down onto the cable and split it so half of your total stitches are on either side of the magic loop and begin working in the round again. The bottom of the foot is now the beginning of the round. Hope this helps!