How to Cast On in Knitting: A Guide to Two Popular Techniques

Introduction

Whether you're new to knitting or have unraveled more sweaters than you'd care to admit, mastering the art of casting on is the first step to any knitting project. In this post, we're diving into two popular cast-on techniques: the classic long-tail cast on and the versatile knitted cast on. 

Why both you may ask? Because if you have had to unravel and start over the long-tail cast on 583 times because your long tail wasn't long enough, you begin searching for an alternative!

I've included links to my videos for each, so you'll be a cast-on wizard in no time. Ready to unravel the mysteries? Let's get started!

Long-Tail Cast On Tutorial

The long-tail cast on is a time-honored favorite. It's stretchy, neat, and all-around reliable. But let's be honest, estimating that long-tail length can feel like a guessing game straight out of Vegas. Here are the basic steps of this cast-on technique:

1. Creating a Slipknot: Start by making a slipknot, leaving a generous tail of yarn. You'll use this tail end for the actual cast-on stitches.
2. Positioning Your Hands: Hold the working yarn in your right hand and the tail in your left. With your left thumb and index finger, create a loop by separating the two yarn ends.
3. Weaving the Yarn: Now, use the needle in your right hand to weave through the thumb loop, then wrap the working yarn around the needle, and finally pull the loop through.

4. Securing the Stitch: Pull the yarn snugly to complete your first stitch. Repeat this until you've got the desired number of stitches.

Tips for Long-Tail Cast On Yarn Length

• Simple Guide to Estimation: Estimate about an inch of tail per stitch, and add a little extra to avoid a hair-pulling restart.
• Another Clever Estimation Technique: Wrap the yarn around your needle, at the barrel or largest part of the needle, once for each stitch you need in your cast on. Then, add a smidge more and begin there.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Try casting on with scrap yarn until you get the hang of it. Trust me, you'll thank yourself later.
• Tug Test: Test the elasticity by pulling gently to ensure it's not too tight.

To see this method in action, you can watch my tutorial here:

Knitted Cast On Method

After one too many botched long-tail cast-ons (See exact count in description above LOL), I decided to switch things up and learn the knitted cast on. Perfect for beginners, or those ready to retire the long-tail, this technique uses your knitting skills from the get-go.

1. Starting with a Slipknot: Begin with a slipknot and place it on your left needle.

2. Knitting the First Stitch: Insert the right needle as if you're going to knit, but instead of completing the stitch, transfer this loop BACK ONTO to the left needle.

3. Repeat: Repeat this process, inserting the right needle into the newly created stitch each time until you have enough cast-on stitches.

4. Keep It Even: Ensure your tension is even by keeping the stitches spaced out evenly.

For a fun way to learn this cast on, watch my video here:

Long-Tail vs Knitted Cast On - Which One to Choose?

• Long-Tail: Best for projects that require a stretchy edge, like socks or hats.
• Knitted: Ideal for projects where you need a firmer edge, like blankets or scarves.

Conclusion

Casting on doesn't have to be daunting or tedious! The long-tail cast on is great for many projects if you can master the yarn estimation. If not, the knitted cast on will give you the control and ease you need.