Heel Flap
The heel flap is the rectangular, densely knitted section on the back of a sock heel, worked flat before the heel itself is shaped with short rows.
Explanation
The heel flap is knitted back and forth over half of the sock stitches, often in a denser pattern such as slip-stitch heel for extra strength and cushioning in a high-wear area. Once the flap reaches the desired length, the heel itself is shaped using short rows (turning the heel), before stitches are picked up along the sides of the flap to continue down the foot. A slip-stitch heel flap is one of the most durable heel constructions and is often preferred for socks that will see heavy use.
Also known as: Flap
The straight part before the turn
The heel flap is the flat rectangle worked back and forth over half the stitches before the heel turn. It covers the back of the heel and runs up toward the ankle.
The flap is nearly always worked with slipped stitches — every other stitch slipped — which makes the fabric twice as dense and considerably more hard-wearing.
Length and picking up
The flap is usually worked as tall as it is wide, or until it covers the heel. Stitches are later picked up along its side edges to turn the sock back into a tube.
The number you pick up governs how snugly the sock sits over the instep — too few binds, too many bags.
Common mistakes
- Working the heel flap without slipped stitches, so it wears through quickly.
- Picking up different numbers of stitches on the two sides.
Keywords
- heel flap
- sock heel
- slip-stitch heel
Frequently asked questions
Why are slipped stitches used in the heel flap?
They make the fabric twice as dense and far more durable. The heel is where a sock wears out first.
How tall should the heel flap be?
Usually as tall as it is wide, or until it covers your heel. The pattern gives a row count.