So You Want To Knit: Cast On

So you want to knit but not sure what Cast On Technique to use? Well good thing I am here to help, [right?], but before we do that, you have to decide what type and size of needle you are going to use, as well as the type of yarn.

If you are just starting out and this is your first time knitting, make sure you check out my other blog posts in the series, "So You Want To Knit: Getting Started." In there, I go though the different types of needles and kinds of yarn most people use to knit."So You Want To Knit: Yarn Labels" Help you read and understand the yarn label. "So You Want To Knit: Knitting Gauge" a video to teach you how to read your knitting gauge and "So You Want To Knit: The Slip Knot" as it is the very first step you need to know before you being to knit.

If you are like me and you want to practice a little before you even start your first project, I suggest a Bamboo or Wooden needle in a large size. I used a US11/8mm needle. I liked using the Bamboo when first starting out because with Bamboo, the yarn doesn't slide off as easily, and you wont have as many dropped stitches as you would if you used a metal or plastic needle.  As for the yarn, I chose to use a 4 Medium [Worsted Yarn]. This wasn't the typical choice of yarn for a 8mm but it was just for practice and it is easier to see your stitches with.

There are many ways to Cast On but these are the three I find most useful and most common. I have decided to put them together in one post for easier viewing. [we will go through some of the other methods at later time]

The Thumb Method

This is one of the easiest and fastest ways to Cast On.



This video was created by Deramores, make sure you stop by and watch more of their videos on their YouTube channel by clicking here


Long Tail Method

This is one of the most commonly used methods of casting on. It gives you a even, clean and stretchy edge, and can be used for most knitting patterns.



This video was created by Knitpicks, make sure you stop by and watch more of their videos on their YouTube channel by clicking here


Knitted Cast On

For this cast on, you will use two needles. This is a stronger cast on and is preferred when knitting garment items that may have lots of wear and tear. This is also a helpful way to learn the knit stitch at the same time as you will use the same techniques.



This video was created by GoodKnitKisses, make sure you stop by and watch more of their videos on their YouTube channel by clicking here


I hope this helps you when deciding what type of Cast On to use. 

Happy Knitting!