Reply #2: Toe up sometimes, cuff down sometimes.

[knitter4democracy]

Always on five dpns. I've tried other ways, and they're not as comfy to me.

Right now, I'm working on some toe-up socks. I prefer the garter stitch short row toe and heel for those from the best book on socks, Cool Socks, Warm Feet from Lucy Neatby. Worth the money. It uses a provisional cast on for half the stitches to start the toe, and the wraps on the turns hide in the garter ridges. I like how the extra cushioning feels, too.