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Socks from the Toe Up: Essential Techniques and Patterns from Wendy Knits
Discover a new approach to sock knitting with Wendy D. Johnson and Socks from the Toe Up . This approach, made famous by her popular blog WendyKnits.net, will turn even the most reluctant knitter into a toe-up nut. Knitting a sock from the toe up saves yarn and always gives a perfect fit. And? No grafting! Wendy provides all the how-tos, tips, and techniques you need, as well as the pros and cons behind all of the cast-on, toe, heel, and bind-off options, gleaned from her years of experience.
With more than 20 fun and beautiful patterns, Socks from the Toe Up has a sock for every foot. Whether you like bold textures or hearts and flowers, delicate lace or Bavarian cables, you (and your feet) will be covered here. Even if you’re casting on your first sock, or have been a top-down sock knitter for ages, you’ll find patterns and projects here that’ll keep your needles humming. Socks from the Toe Up is the hands-down best guide for toe-up socks.
With more than 20 fun and beautiful patterns, Socks from the Toe Up has a sock for every foot. Whether you like bold textures or hearts and flowers, delicate lace or Bavarian cables, you (and your feet) will be covered here. Even if you’re casting on your first sock, or have been a top-down sock knitter for ages, you’ll find patterns and projects here that’ll keep your needles humming. Socks from the Toe Up is the hands-down best guide for toe-up socks.
128 pages, Paperback
First published April 14, 2009
109 people are currently reading
460 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
May 8, 2009
Very nice sock knitting book from the author of the Wendy Knits blog. I like the patterns and the casual writing style. She describes several methods for casting on, turning the heel, and binding off. Note that it's not a beginner book. There's no "basic knitting skills" section which so many other knitting books include. A quibble: I wish there was more of a range in gauges. Most of the patterns are written for a fine gauge, usually 8 stitches per inch, which can be hard on the hands for some of us. There's an errata sheet on the blog at wendyknits.net.
I've made my first toe using Judy's Magic Cast-on, although it took more than a few attempts and about as many cuss words.
I've made my first toe using Judy's Magic Cast-on, although it took more than a few attempts and about as many cuss words.
August 24, 2009
Sitting in a crowded, delayed, and AC-less subway car in mid-August is not the best way to gain a favourable impression of any book. Regretfully it was those conditions which lead to my first impressions of this book, formed while skimming quickly through the patterns and melting on the platform: "meh".
I knit my socks toe-up and I feel I can follow most standard recipes in my sleep. I didn't see anything that excited or inspired me.
Last night I sat down to draft this review and decided to give the book another chance, with a glass of cold water and the AC running just enough to cut the humidity.
I had obviously skipped the first 29 pages. These opening pages to the book are a delightful resource with those not familiar with the toe-up technique or without a solid resource (such as the Reader's Digest Knitter's Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to the Principles and Techniques of Handknitting). I will say the technical drawings are gorgeous and kick the RD Handbook's arse.
If you are a newish sock knitter and haven't yet figured out how toe-up and top-down differ; if you do not own a reference guide nor any stitch dictionaries, then I think this could be a good investment for you.
If you are a knitter looking for a reference to give you plug-and-play numbers to knit with at different tensions (yarns) and foot sizes, I suggest you pair this book with a pencil, some paper, and Sensational Knitted Socks or New Pathways for Sock Knitters to assist you in figuring out different sizing more easily and receive the most mileage out of this book. (Note: if I missed this and it's in the book, please let me know!)
If, however, you own several stitch dictionaries along with other reference materials demonstrating toe shaping and various bind offs, I'm not really sure what you'll get out of this book.
Breaking it down a bit more:
The technique section -- 4.5 stars
The patterns -- 2 stars for inspiration and individuality (Guess who's been watching too much Iron Chef? Sorry).
Overall it's a nice book and I'm happy to see a compilation of many of Wendy's patterns but I'm not quite sure where it fills the niche on my bookshelf, but it might very well find a happy home on yours.
I knit my socks toe-up and I feel I can follow most standard recipes in my sleep. I didn't see anything that excited or inspired me.
Last night I sat down to draft this review and decided to give the book another chance, with a glass of cold water and the AC running just enough to cut the humidity.
I had obviously skipped the first 29 pages. These opening pages to the book are a delightful resource with those not familiar with the toe-up technique or without a solid resource (such as the Reader's Digest Knitter's Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to the Principles and Techniques of Handknitting). I will say the technical drawings are gorgeous and kick the RD Handbook's arse.
If you are a newish sock knitter and haven't yet figured out how toe-up and top-down differ; if you do not own a reference guide nor any stitch dictionaries, then I think this could be a good investment for you.
If you are a knitter looking for a reference to give you plug-and-play numbers to knit with at different tensions (yarns) and foot sizes, I suggest you pair this book with a pencil, some paper, and Sensational Knitted Socks or New Pathways for Sock Knitters to assist you in figuring out different sizing more easily and receive the most mileage out of this book. (Note: if I missed this and it's in the book, please let me know!)
If, however, you own several stitch dictionaries along with other reference materials demonstrating toe shaping and various bind offs, I'm not really sure what you'll get out of this book.
Breaking it down a bit more:
The technique section -- 4.5 stars
The patterns -- 2 stars for inspiration and individuality (Guess who's been watching too much Iron Chef? Sorry).
Overall it's a nice book and I'm happy to see a compilation of many of Wendy's patterns but I'm not quite sure where it fills the niche on my bookshelf, but it might very well find a happy home on yours.
January 1, 2019
I found the explanation of techniques a bit on the baroque side. She had a lot of different techniques for creating a toe and heel. I find it difficult to understand different techniques in writing. These are better taught and absorbed through YouTube. Also, a lot of sock construction involved mathematics, especially in the construction of a gusset. You can just follow a pattern, but to be able to create a custom pair of socks you need your gauge and some math. A better book a actual sock construction is Custom Socks: Knit to fit your feet by Kate Atherly.
The patterns are good though. I had to modify them as the stated sizes were inadequate but the actual pattern on the leg were nice.
The patterns are good though. I had to modify them as the stated sizes were inadequate but the actual pattern on the leg were nice.
November 12, 2015
I appreciated that the author covered several techniques for heels, toes, and bind-offs and the benefits of each. The patterns had plenty of pictures. Even though I would probably only use one of the patterns in its entirety, I think they would make a good base for other designs.
August 24, 2023
It's a bummer these patterns are only for two sizes, when feet come in so many. The information portion was very helpful and the author does give some vague directions on the first pattern how to alter it for foot sizes but it was kind of sad. It should have been work done for the patterns.
April 13, 2025
I am currently re-knitting a pair of socks using the author's Slip Stitch Heel Basic Sock pattern using self-patterning yarn. It's been a while since I did socks and since I'm reusing yarn and re-doing this pair of socks (it was too slouchy and the misalignment of the patterning always bugged me), knitting from the toes up was the best way to go. I also finally tried Judy's Magic Cast-On and things are proceeding nicely! The stitch patterns are lovely but not conducive for much color work. Photography is good, there are stitch diagrams as needed, and the author explains a lot of different techniques. The illustrations for some of those techniques were unclear. But, in all, a great book if you're looking for socks with interesting stitch patterns.
December 4, 2017
I checked this book out because I was having trouble with a “great” pattern for toes up socks.
This book was extremely well written. The writing style is engaging and informative; a nice balance between personable and concise.
The author first discusses basic techniques, then gives some basic sock patterns, followed by more involved patterns. There are lots of pictures and helpful diagrams. Plus an appendix with more information.
While I checked my copy out from the library, but would definitely buy it to add to my own collection. A great resource for sock knitting.
This book was extremely well written. The writing style is engaging and informative; a nice balance between personable and concise.
The author first discusses basic techniques, then gives some basic sock patterns, followed by more involved patterns. There are lots of pictures and helpful diagrams. Plus an appendix with more information.
While I checked my copy out from the library, but would definitely buy it to add to my own collection. A great resource for sock knitting.
May 6, 2018
I've struggled with knitting for a while now (I can crochet, but it's so different). I really want to learn how to knit socks, and this book had some wonderful information and beautiful patterns. If I ever learn to knit (fingers crossed), I will come back to this book for the patterns because I need these in my life.
June 28, 2018
Love, love, LOVE this book!! It's the book that I recommend to any and all knitters when it comes to knitting toe-up socks! The instructions are clear, I love the mix and match sock components and the patterns for when you're ready to move beyond plain vanilla. Just an overall great book to learn from, to keep as a reference, and to have in your "tool box".
August 12, 2020
Toe Up Socks
This book walks you through knitting a sock. Wendy is thorough and concise . She gives you three heels to choose from, and each has a basic sock pattern. After that are a load of socks to help you practice your new skills.
This book walks you through knitting a sock. Wendy is thorough and concise . She gives you three heels to choose from, and each has a basic sock pattern. After that are a load of socks to help you practice your new skills.
February 28, 2024
This book is essential for basic sock knitting. I don't want all the options when I knit socks, and this one has the bare basics combined with such delicate designs. An essential for your knitting bookshelf!
March 27, 2025
An interesting sock book. They are all solid color lace socks, which is a nice change though I am a little worried they won't be comfortable. Regardless, this book does a really good job of teaching a new method of knitting socks.
December 15, 2017
I find that I like toe up sock technique the most - good patterns although mostly all fingerling yarn. one to go back to
February 10, 2018
Love this book. The patterns are beautiful, easy to understand, and a joy to knit.
April 11, 2018
Some nice patterns.
July 17, 2018
Maybe it's better in hardcover? Too much googling and youtube videos to be entirely sold on this book. Now just to finish the second sock...
January 15, 2019
Cute designs, half way through a pattern, no errors in the pattern.
December 1, 2020
My go-to reference for my preferred method of knitting socks.
October 25, 2012
Zunächst werden die Grundlagen der Toe Up Socke vermittelt:
1. Die verschiedenen Spitzenanschläge:
Spitze mit verkürzten Reihen, Spitze mit Achteranschlag, Türkischer Maschenanschlag und Judys Zauberanschlag. Die Zeichnungen fand ich nicht sehr hilfreich und war froh, dass in den Quellen Webseiten angegeben waren, wo diese Techniken mit teils deutlich besseren Bildern und Erklärungen abgebildet waren. Besonders bei Judys Zauberanschlag kann ich wirklich nur empfehlen auf die ursprüngliche Quelle zurückzugreifen.
2. Fersen:
Natürlich muss man Fersen, wenn man Toe up strickt auch anders stricken. Hier werden die Ferse mit verkürzten Maschen, Zwickelferse, Hebemaschenferse erklärt, die Herzchenferse aber vergessen.
3. Die Modelle: Nett, braucht man aber nicht wirklich, eigentlich reichen die Grundanleitungen, die Muster der Modelle sind allesamt bekannte Klassiker, die ich alle aus meinen diversen Musterbücher bereits kannte, nicht eines war mir neu. Wer nun jedoch tatsächlich diese Modelle nachstricken will wird schon bald erste Schwierigkeiten bekommen:
Es gibt keine gescheite Größentrabelle in der gelistet ist, wie viele Maschen man für welche Größe verwendet, hier gibt es nur S, M und L und nichts in Kindergrößen, ich würde sagen Größe 39 aufwärts. Die Muster bestimmen dabei die Sockengröße, denn einige Muster gehen aufgrund ihrer Maschenzahl nur für kleine Socken, anderen nur für große Socken.
Die Erklärung der Hebemaschenferse ist nicht ganz eindeutig und ich brauchte mehrere Anläufe, wegen unklarer Formulierungen, so wird nicht erwähnt, dass die erste Masche, die abgehoben wird, NICHT mitgezählt wird, tut man das doch, geht es nicht auf.
Die Muster sind inkonsequent dargetellt, mal mit den Reihen, in denen kein Muster gestrickt wird, als leere Reihen, mal werden diese Reihen nicht dargestellt, da muss man aufpassen und auf die Reihennummerierung achten.
Fazit:
Jeder muss selber entscheiden ob er ein Buch kauft wegen 4 Spitzenanschlagsmethoden und 3 verschiedenen Fersen, die man so teils besser erklärt im Netz findet. Innovative Muster sucht man vergeblich ebenso wie eine Größentabelle. Dennoch ein nettes Buch für diese Sockenstrickmethode für Strickerinnen, die nicht sonderlich netzaffin sind.
1. Die verschiedenen Spitzenanschläge:
Spitze mit verkürzten Reihen, Spitze mit Achteranschlag, Türkischer Maschenanschlag und Judys Zauberanschlag. Die Zeichnungen fand ich nicht sehr hilfreich und war froh, dass in den Quellen Webseiten angegeben waren, wo diese Techniken mit teils deutlich besseren Bildern und Erklärungen abgebildet waren. Besonders bei Judys Zauberanschlag kann ich wirklich nur empfehlen auf die ursprüngliche Quelle zurückzugreifen.
2. Fersen:
Natürlich muss man Fersen, wenn man Toe up strickt auch anders stricken. Hier werden die Ferse mit verkürzten Maschen, Zwickelferse, Hebemaschenferse erklärt, die Herzchenferse aber vergessen.
3. Die Modelle: Nett, braucht man aber nicht wirklich, eigentlich reichen die Grundanleitungen, die Muster der Modelle sind allesamt bekannte Klassiker, die ich alle aus meinen diversen Musterbücher bereits kannte, nicht eines war mir neu. Wer nun jedoch tatsächlich diese Modelle nachstricken will wird schon bald erste Schwierigkeiten bekommen:
Es gibt keine gescheite Größentrabelle in der gelistet ist, wie viele Maschen man für welche Größe verwendet, hier gibt es nur S, M und L und nichts in Kindergrößen, ich würde sagen Größe 39 aufwärts. Die Muster bestimmen dabei die Sockengröße, denn einige Muster gehen aufgrund ihrer Maschenzahl nur für kleine Socken, anderen nur für große Socken.
Die Erklärung der Hebemaschenferse ist nicht ganz eindeutig und ich brauchte mehrere Anläufe, wegen unklarer Formulierungen, so wird nicht erwähnt, dass die erste Masche, die abgehoben wird, NICHT mitgezählt wird, tut man das doch, geht es nicht auf.
Die Muster sind inkonsequent dargetellt, mal mit den Reihen, in denen kein Muster gestrickt wird, als leere Reihen, mal werden diese Reihen nicht dargestellt, da muss man aufpassen und auf die Reihennummerierung achten.
Fazit:
Jeder muss selber entscheiden ob er ein Buch kauft wegen 4 Spitzenanschlagsmethoden und 3 verschiedenen Fersen, die man so teils besser erklärt im Netz findet. Innovative Muster sucht man vergeblich ebenso wie eine Größentabelle. Dennoch ein nettes Buch für diese Sockenstrickmethode für Strickerinnen, die nicht sonderlich netzaffin sind.
January 4, 2016
Loved this book and will be adding it to my knitting library as it is one of the few books on knitting that I read cover to cover. The directions and diagrams are easy to follow along and learn toe up sock construction. There were a good mix of basic and intermediate level patterns with vanilla and more complex design to fit your knitting mood. Though I didn't like the author's choice of yarn on some of the socks (didn't show off the stitch pattern well enough), I found better examples on Ravelry from other knitters who've worked the patterns in question. If you're interested in 'operation sock drawer' (filling a drawer with handknit socks for yourself) this is an excellent companion to get you started. Highly reccommended.
July 20, 2010
I always knit my socks top down... that's the way I learned. But I've heard so many good things about making your socks from the toe up, that I've always wanted to try it, but I just need an easy explanation of how to do it. This book is it. It's the first time I've actually understood how to do it, and I can't wait to start my first pair. I also like how this book has simple starter (stockinette) socks, so you can "get" the technique without having to worry about lace or cables.
July 9, 2012
This was the first book I got when I decided I would try knitting socks.
I love the technique using two circular needles instead of four short needles, and have used it for other items since.
Come to think of it, I walk around all winter barefooted and in my Uggs or sheepskin boots both in and outside the house, so I have not much need of socks, but this book sure gives good sound basics for any knitter who wants to try knitting socks.
I love the technique using two circular needles instead of four short needles, and have used it for other items since.
Come to think of it, I walk around all winter barefooted and in my Uggs or sheepskin boots both in and outside the house, so I have not much need of socks, but this book sure gives good sound basics for any knitter who wants to try knitting socks.
March 22, 2013
Nice book, nice photos. I haven't knitted any patterns from this book so I can't say if the instructions are easy to follow or not but the book is laid out very nicely. I knit socks from the top down so I don't think I'm going to change the way I knit socks since I like the method. I'm not going to buy this book because I have many many sock pattern books and I don't really need another one. But, if I didn't have so many sock books I would buy this book.
September 11, 2013
The first pair of socks I knit was from this book, so it always holds a special place! I'm currently working on a variation of it, too! :-) (Bavarian Cable Socks) I love how Wendy makes sure to give patterns that are easy enough to remember so I don't have to constantly look at the pattern. I can take this on the bus with me, without getting carsick looking at the pattern :-) I checked this out of the library, at it is on my "to buy, eventually, hopefully" list. :-)
September 27, 2009
Ribbed Ribbon socks - Well, it took a few months but i finally finished these socks. I liked the book and have added it to my Amazon wishlist (I borrowed it from the library). Knitting a sock from the toe up is much easier and Wendy does a great job of explaining it. I also went on line to learn how to start the sock. There are several videos.
April 25, 2010
This one is a really good book for explaining what to do and how to do it. I think I can modify the patterns enough (if needed) so that I can avoid doing a gauge swatch. The lace patterns are gorgeous and I really want to try some of them.
Patterns can be done with a variety of needles (dpns, circulars, or magic loop).
Patterns can be done with a variety of needles (dpns, circulars, or magic loop).
September 4, 2011
Good basic reference for knitting toe up socks with different cast-ons, toe and heel methods, and bind-offs, tho most of these are available online various places. Nice sock patterns, but nothing really new and different. I tend to make up my own sock patterns as I knit, so I was meh about it. But it would be nice for the beginning sock knitter.
January 11, 2010
I love the patterns in this book but took one star off as some of the technical information is a bit thin and the drawings not so helpful. In other words, if I hadn't already brought some sock knitting know how to this I would have had trouble with some of the techniques used.
May 18, 2010
Nice, well thought out book. I was kinda hoping it would cover 2 on 1 circular, but it didn't so much. Guess that is what YouTube is for. At any rate, she is a very artistic and accomplished knitter and I follow her blog, so I thought I should check it out.
December 23, 2010
Fantastic book that walks you carefully though how to do a basic toe-up sock....and then drowns you in dozens of gorgeous patterns. All of them are beautiful and wearable, and none of them are overly difficult.
If you're going to knit socks. This is the book you need to have.
If you're going to knit socks. This is the book you need to have.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews