Socks, I'm not sure about using that method. As you know, I am new to knitting socks, but I have found that I avoid holes when I pick up stitches this way (hope I can explain it correctly): when I pick up the stitch closest to the heel I go through where I would normally pick up the stitch and then through the "corner" and bring my new stitch through both of those spots. It draws it together nicely.

I do it that way too......
Linda C

Thanks, Linda. I figured that one out on my own after my first pair, but it's nice to have my method confirmed by someone who's in the know.

I see that would work also in tightening up the area. Thanks.

Socks12345, you can also do it the way you described, picking up the two extra stitches. When you're doing the instep gussset shaping, you're decreasing back to to the original number of stitches cast on. So all you need to do is an extra pair of decreases. As long as you end up with the right number of stitches at the foot part, picking up the extra stitches is OK.

Thanks threejsmom

I picked up the extra stitches in the corner but still got a hole. I do not understand about going through the corner and the stitch at the same time. Could you please try to explain it again or post a picture of the needle doing this? Thanks.

Socks, I don't have any socks in progress to take a picture of, so I will try to make my idea a little clearer. When you place your needle into the stitch that you will bring your picked-up stitch through, just poke the point barely through, then (assuming you are right-handed) just kind of pull that stitch to the right and poke your needle into the corner. Then pull your new stitch through both of those. I hope that helps make it a little clearer.

Donna, you gave me a nice answer to this question back in March. It's Catlover who bumped the question up again, so I hope your answer helps her.

Sorry, Socks. Probably Alzheimer's setting in.

Thanks for the clarification. I ripped out the whole thing this morning because I couldn't stand the mistakes and a mysterious hole ALSO developed in the ribbing at the top of the sock! And was spreading! I will try to follow this advice on my next sock. Thanks!

Catlover, don't give up. I started several socks before I had success.

Thanks!

A nice way to avoid holes when picking up stitches on any sides anywhere is to actually go In one row on your side- you are knitting off one stitch but have put your point through two loops at the side of your knitting. Socks are one of my favs to knit and it was a while until I figured this out... no more holes!!! I think I read it in a copy of Folk Socks??