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Casting on is the first step in any knitting project. It creates the row of stitches that everything else builds on.
There isn’t one “right” cast-on. Different techniques suit different projects, yarns, and comfort levels.
In this guide, you’ll start with the simplest option and move toward the long-tail cast-on, which is one of the most commonly used methods in knitting. Take your time. If one method feels awkward, try another. Your hands will learn through doing.
This is the easiest cast-on method and is often used when you need to add stitches quickly.
How to Do It :
1️⃣ Make a slip knot and place it on your needle. (This counts as your first stitch.)
2️⃣ Hold the needle in your right hand.
3️⃣ With your left hand, bring the working yarn forward and over the needle to make a loop.
4️⃣ Place that loop onto the needle, tightening it just enough so it sits neatly but can still move.
5️⃣ Repeat Steps 3–4 until you have the required number of stitches on your needle.
Helpful Notes
This cast-on is quick and simple, but not very stretchy. Keep the loops loose and even to avoid a tight edge.
This method works well for adding stitches mid-row or for projects where stretch is not important.
If you want a stretchier edge, the longtail cast-on below may be a better choice.
How to Do It:
1️⃣ Leave a long yarn tail (about 1 inch per stitch you need to cast on). Make a slip knot and place it on your needle. (This counts as your first stitch.)
2️⃣ Hold the needle in your right hand.
3️⃣ With your left hand, place the yarn tail over your thumb and the working yarn over your index finger. Your palm should face up, forming a “V” shape of yarn.
4️⃣ Insert the needle tip under the strand on your thumb, from front to back.
5️⃣ Bring the needle over and around the strand on your index finger.
6️⃣ Pull the loop back through the thumb loop.
7️⃣ Drop the loop off your thumb and gently tighten the stitch on the needle.
8️⃣ Repeat Steps 4–7 until you have the required number of stitches.
Helpful Notes
The longtail cast-on creates a neat, stretchy edge and is one of the most commonly used cast-ons in knitting. This cast-on has good stretch and a clean edge. It’s great for cuffs, necklines, and hems.
You can do this method with single or double needles. If your edge feels tight, try using two needles held together for the cast-on.