Hello Pixie I've just started knitting socks and it's quite an adventure I can tell you. I've completed one pair each of thick ankle socks and knee high ones in DK. Neither are perfect - but wearable. You're meant to try a 'sacrificial' sock first and accept that it'll never be as neat as subsequent efforts. Knitting with double pointed needles is an art which can be learned - if I can do it so can you.
Turning the heel requires care - you knit the leg in the round and then knit the back of the heel (with 2 needles) and then concentrate on the heel 'cup' then pick up and knit from the sides to form gussets. Easier than it sounds when you get the hang of it. I'm going a little insane though.
I'm exasperated by my latest knee high socks. The leg was great but I've undone the foot (twice) as it's just too big. That won't be comfy, will it? I probably need to change to a smaller size needle and the wool shop is shut. I am persevering. Did I mention that I'm going insane?
There's two threads on Mumsnet about knitting, crochet and natter which you may like to dip into. A book which is recommended on there 'Start Knitting Socks' by Ann Budd which is American so some terms a little different but not insurmountable. Anyway, happy knitting.
