Here are the variables of sockknitting 1 Cuff Down or ToeUp Toe up is easier to fit . Cast on is a bit fiddly . Cuff downs feature an easy bind off but it involves a sewing needle kitchener stitch so some people get weirded out about it . 2 Heel Flap and gusset or Short Row Heel there ' s other heels too but these two are the most usual ones . Heel flap fits well but you have to pick up stitches . Short Row a pretty heel , easy and quick . Downside is it doesn ' t fit everyone so for some feet you ' ll need to add a gusset or tweak your heel stitch count . Toes It took several pairs of socks for me to figure out my favorite toe . For beginners a wide toe or a standard toe is fine . You might change your mind about what kind of toe you like later . So , I ' d say decide on toe up or cuff down , heel flap or short row , and choose from the suggestions already given Silver ' s class or Lifestyle for your first sock . For gifting socks , after you ' ve done a couple pairs to learn the basics , consider Fish Lips Heellipskissheel . The pattern includes instructions for making a template for every foot you want to knit for . The pattern is overly wordy , but the techniques are solid .