Finished last evening. To liven this variegated yarn I introduced single row stripes in different colours at random intervals – gotta try something because the yarn itself is boring!
The stripes liven up the socks a bit. It’s a ice wool yarn to work with, but none of the colour bands are bright; it’s more interesting working on a more dramatically coloured yarn.
I’ve started the final ball of this boring yarn – this ball consists of shades of mauves/purples/greys. So far just working on the cuff in a contrasting colour. Not sure yet what other colours to bring in and how to do it.
jmn 
So, I checked under your sewing and knitting tips and I see the heel you are using. Sorry for asking a question when you had already provided the info. Still think they are great sox. 🙂
Great looking sox. Conservative is okay though I agree lively colours are more fun. These would work well with jeans.
Are you short rowing the heels? I’m new here so I don’t know if you’ve explained this before. The heels don’t look like the regular k1, s1, purl back, found in most instruction. Yours are much smoother looking.
Yes, as you’ve discovered – I use a short rows heel.
Lovely socks!