How to cast on knitting stitches

The double cast-on method

Learning to knit requires learning to cast stitches onto your needle. This cast-on edge forms the first row of stitches and is usually the bottom selvage edge. There are several different methods of casting on and it depends upon the situation which method you will use.

The stitches of the cast-on edge need to be uniform in size or the edge will be unsightly. They should be moderately loose so they will be easy to work off the needle. This base is important to the look of the finished piece so it may be necessary to re-do it if the first attempt is not satisfactory. The method of casting on described here is only one of several methods.

Instructions

Step 1

First form a slip knot

The first step in casting on is to form a slip knot which makes the first stitch. Make a loop allowing one yarn end to cross through the middle of the loop. Insert one needle under the yarn hanging down and pull it through the loop and tighten it.

Step 2

Use two lengths of yarn

The double cast-on uses a double length of yarn and one needle. Allowing one inch per stitch, measure a length of yarn off from the ball and make the slip knot at the measured off distance. Wrap the short end of yarn over the left thumb, making a loop. Put the yarn from the ball over the right index finger

Step 3

Insert the knitting needle through the thumb loop

Slip the needle up through the thumb loop then throw the yarn in your right hand around the needle and pull the yarn through the loop.

Step 4

Tighten the loop on the knitting needle

Slip the loop off the thumb and tighten the loop on the needle by drawing the short yarn forward with the thumb. This gives a firm, yet elastic edge and is suitable for most any pattern. It is especially recommended for beginners.

Repeat this procedure until the required number of stitches have been cast on.

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Things Needed

Yarn

One knitting needle

Tips & Warnings

Practice casting on several times before you start your first knitting project. When you are satisfied that your stitches are even and moderately loose, you are ready to start knitting.

It may be easier to keep count of your stitches, when casting on a large number, if you slip a ring marker or a yarn loop on the needle every 10 or 20 stitches.

The simplicity or elaborateness of the appearance of the knitted item and the firmness or elasticity needed will be factors in determining which cast-on method to use.

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Annalou Mack
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Casting On for Beginners

For first-time knitters, learn this basic technique for casting on.

This technique in this video is basically the same as the How-to Guide with the exception that the demonistrator only uses one hand instead of two. In the Guide on the left, the yarn from the ball is thrown over the needle with the right hand. Either way, the cast on edge looks the same.

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