Working on developing a plain vanilla sock method that works well for me.

--Used the Easy Toe Cast-on from Knitty and 8 stitches
--Knitting magic loop
--Inc by . Repeat between <>s for next needle--total of 20 stitches.
Increases: k2, kfb , k to last 3 stitches at end of needle, kfb, k2.
--Increase every round until there are 16 stitches on each needle, then alternate inc. round with plain stockinette until 60 stitches.
--Knit until sock measures 7 1/2 inches, then knit a little over half the stitches with waste yarn for afterthought heel. (make sure this is centered with toe!)
--For better ease at ankle a few rows after waste yarn, increase 4 stitches evenly around. (64 stitches) Next time, increase before waste yarn and heel!!
--For heel, pick up stitches (30 on each side of waste yarn) and knit 2 rounds. Decrease by k8, k2tog 6 times in one round. K two rounds plain, then decrease by K7, k2tog 6 times in one round. K two rounds plain, etc.