B13 Basic Heel-Flap Sock - Knitting Pattern for Kids and Adults in Valley Yarns Franklin Hand Dyed

B13 Basic Heel-Flap Sock - Knitting Pattern Overview

What Is Being Made

The B13 Basic Heel-Flap Sock is a seamless, top-down sock pattern designed by Kirsten Hipsky for both kids and adults. This pattern creates simple, ribbed socks featuring a gusseted heel with a traditional heel flap and tapered toe construction. The finished socks measure 7, 8, or 9 inches around the leg, accommodating multiple sizes in a single pattern.

Techniques Used

This sock pattern employs several fundamental knitting techniques that make it ideal for advanced beginners looking to expand their skills:

• Seamless, top-down construction: Socks are worked from the cuff downward in one continuous piece, eliminating the need for seaming
• Worked in the round: The pattern uses circular knitting methods on double-pointed needles to create a tubular fabric
• Heel flap and gusseted heel: A traditional heel construction that provides structure and durability in a high-wear area
• Tapered toe: Gradual decreases shape the toe for a comfortable, fitted finish

Stitches Used

The sock features a straightforward stitch pattern combining ribbing and stockinette stitch. The cuff begins with alternating purl and knit stitches (P1, K1 rib), which creates an elastic edge that hugs the leg. The foot section transitions to stockinette stitch (St st) worked in the round, producing a smooth, classic sock fabric.

Materials and Gauge

This pattern is designed specifically for Valley Yarns Franklin, a 4-ply sock yarn composed of 75% wool and 25% nylon. One skein of Franklin provides 450 yards, sufficient yardage for a complete pair of socks. The pattern calls for US size 0 (2.00mm) double-pointed needles to achieve the specified gauge of 8 stitches per 1 inch in stockinette stitch worked in the round. The pattern includes both specific gauge-based instructions and a general formula, allowing knitters to adapt the design if using different yarn weights or gauges.

Pattern Details

The pattern provides three finished sizes with corresponding stitch counts: 56 stitches (small), 64 stitches (medium), or 72 stitches (large) cast on and divided evenly across four needles at 14, 16, or 18 stitches per needle respectively. The foot is worked even in the established stitch pattern until it measures 7.5, 8, or 8.5 inches from the back of the heel, or approximately 2 inches shorter than the desired total sock length. This downloadable PDF format makes the pattern portable and convenient for knitters working on this project anywhere.