A test knit for Jo Torr

Also using the Blender Sock technique throughout, not merely for transitions, so I can use up a few leftovers…

Toe Up
2 Short Circular Needles
Eye of Partridge Heel

I had originally planned on knitting a 72 st sock but it was way too big. Normally I knit socks at a much tighter gauge (with 2 mm needles) than the pattern specified, so I decided to use the pattern’s gauge and thus knit on fewer stitches. Soooo:

Sock foot = 64 sts
Using the heel st for the heel turn
Still planning EOP for heel flap

As an experienced sock knitter, I confess I have never used (or can’t remember if I have used) W&T for short rows in socks (I’ve used it for other sorts of projects, however.). I tend to use Priscilla Wild’s Short Row Heel Method instead. I thought, however, that I ought to make at least one pair of socks with W&T so I could cross it off my “Bucket List.” I also do not tend to make an all out gusset and flap but use a modified short row heel instead. I cut my sock knitting teeth on Carisa Martin Cairn’s Lifestyle Toe Up Socks and have never -- till now -- looked back. I am, therefore, an utter novice with this type of sock construction. I agreed to test knit this pattern, thinking I might provide some questions for Jo and, at the same time, be challenged to expand my own comfort level.

I am finding this pattern well written but have found myself needing to re-read instructions because I jump to conclusions about what to do and I have been in error. It’s my own fault, not the fault of the pattern. :) I usually knit like I cook -- not really glued to line by line instructions. As a test knitter I have made a commitment to not do that and have had to tink and redo things a couple of times because I lapse into auto pilot and have to go back to “manual!”

One of my yarns (heels of the socks) was purchased as a mini-skein from Wildethyme on Etsy:
SW Merino, bamboo and nylon, “Sage Brush” (60% Superwash Merino / 30% Bamboo / 10% Nylon)--

Others are leftovers from these socks:
Ashton Windows
io Saturnalia!
Blattwerk
Elephants at Low Tide (natural color) made for me by suzieville
Neely’s Twilight
Iris Lace Socks

I have given these socks to Sandi and she loves them. They fit her perfectly. SCORE!!