In this post, you’re going to find 9 beginner-friendly knitting cast on methods, including images and video tutorials, and some invaluable tips and tricks to help you get that ‘pro’ effect from the very first try.
If you think about it, whatever stitch you choose, whatever tension you have, your knit pieces may look like a piece of art or a cloth.
But if you nail your cast-on and then finish off with an equally important cast-off, this will put all of your knits to another level.
All of the 14 knitting cast-on methods have slightly different functions and will go ideally with the piece you’re knitting.
So, if you ever wanted that ‘slightly more polished’ look on your knits – let’s go!
No1. Starting off strong with a Backward Loop (or Thumb) Cast On:
This is one of the simplest methods, but it can be a bit loose and isn’t always recommended for projects that require a sturdy edge.
However, knitters love using it when they need to cast on additional stitches at the end of the row.
Consider these things before choosing the backward loop or thumb cast-on method:
- Recommended for beginners because it’s really simple. It’s the best choice if you’re teaching your little ones to knit, too!
- Useful for adding stitches -in the middle or at the end of the row (think buttonholes and straps).
- Very minimal visually. It almost disappears and can look really good on some projects!
BUT also it’s:
- It’s difficult to maintain the tension. Some stitches may spread as you knit the second row, which may lead to uneven edges.
- It may turn out loose. Pulling the needles too far apart in this first row may make the loops very loose!
- The edge will not be stretchy :/ If you’re knitting something that requires a flexible edge – you should consider other cast-on methods.
No2. Knitted Cast On:
This method is quite straightforward and produces a loose, flexible edge.
Although it’s not my favorite, because it’s not as fast and may make some gapings in the first row of the stitches, it’s quite popular among the knitters.
A huge plus is it doesn’t require calculating (or guessing) how much yarn to leave for the ‘tale’.
Consider these things before choosing the knitted cast-on method:
- It is a beginner-friendly cast-on that uses the same movements as the simple knit stitch.
- Looks really neat!
- Produces flexible edge. If you’re planning on knitting things like cuffs, this is your go-to cast-on.
BUT this cast-on method:
- Sill is less stretchy than other methods.
- It takes more time because you’re using two needles.
- Requires skill for tension. It needs to be even throughout. Otherwise, knitting the second row may be problematic due to different sizes and tension stitches.
No3. Cable Cast On:
It is similar to the knitted cast-on but provides a firmer, less stretchy edge. It’s still a very beginner-friendly cast-on method.
Although any beginner can do it, it’s worth noting that it takes time and may feel like you’re battling needles and yarn. But don’t give up!
Consider these things before choosing the cable cast-on method for your knitting project:
- It’s a perfect choice for a ribbing edge. This cast-on stretches just the right amount without losing the shape. So, if it’s a sleeve or a hem that you’re knitting – do this!
- Your edges will be stable and strong with this cast-on method.
- It looks good (and neat!). Very minimal.
BUT also:
- There’s a limit to how much this cast-on can stretch. If it’s socks that you’re knitting – don’t choose this one.
- It can make the stitches really tight. Then it’s extremely difficult to work the second row.
No4. Long Tail Cast On:
One of the most popular cast-on methods in knitting. It produces a stretchy and neat edge.
It’s also my absolute favorite. It’s fast, and once you get a grip of it, you feel like a true professional when casting a long tail cast-on!
Consider these things before choosing the long-tail cast-on method for your knitting project:
- It’s both sturdy and elastic! It’s a very versatile cast-on method and is suitable for any (ANY!) project.
- You’ll knit a nicely stretchy edge. Socks, sweater necks, hat brims – this is your go-to cast-on method.
- It can be knitted quickly. Just take some time to master it, and you’ll be able to cast on the stitches really fast.
BUT:
- The tail...you will need my tip below to determine how long the ‘tail’ should be before starting your knit. Otherwise, you might run out of the tail, which can be very frustrating, especially if you have already been casting on many stitches.
- Requires some practice with tension. Again, too tight or too loose can be annoying on the second row.
BONUS TIPS for a long tail cast-on method:
Tip no1. Cast the stitches on two needles held as one.
Once you cast the right number of stitches, just gently remove one needle, and you’ll have a very easy row of stitches to work with on your second row. Not overtensed – just very pleasant to work with.
Tip no2. To determine how long your tale should be I suggest either making the tale extremely long and not bothering yourself with this question OR:
Hold the two needles together in one hand. With your other hand, take the yarn and wrap it around both needles the number of stitches you plan to cast on.
If you need 10 stitches, then wrap your yarn around the needles 10 times.
Once you do it mark the first loop. Then, hold the last loop in place and remove the needles.
This looped section roughly estimates the tail length you need for your stitches.
However! Don’t forget to add an extra 20 cm (or about 8 inches) of yarn to the tail.
It will give you ‘an extra cushion’ for weaving in the ends later, and it saves you from running out of yarn while casting on the stitches.
No5. Tubular Cast On:
OK, this one… I was surprised.
If you’re a perfectionist and will be knitting a ribbing, this tubular cast-on knitting method is a way to go.
This method creates a stretchy, invisible edge that’s just… Beautiful!
10/10 for how great it looks!
Consider these things before choosing the tubular cast-on method for your knitting project:
- The edge will be nice and super stretchy.
- It’s reversible! Front to back, it’s gonna look great.
- The stitches will be more consistent and even compared to some other cast-on methods.
BUT also:
- It will take some time to master this method. But it’s definitively doable for a beginner.
- You will need some provisional cast on for this. This adds complexity to the process, but have patience with it!
No6. Provisional Cast On:
This is a temporary method used when you want to (or need) knit from both ends. You make a cast on with a separate piece of yarn, that you later ‘unzip’ and get ‘free stitches’ that you collect. That’s why you have 2 garment ends, both with stitches. This method is very good for double-layered edges and socks.
Consider these things before choosing the tubular cast-on method for your knitting project:
- Creates seamless joins. No one is going to see where or how your cowl was joined!
- This cast-on method allows you to start now and change later. Meaning, that if you’re unsure about the edge or project length, this method gives you time to decide!
BUT:
- It is quite complex for a beginner. Working a crochet hook and a needle at the same time might be daunting at first, but only until you’ve done it a couple of times 🙂
- Requires pre-planning for some patterns. If you would be working directly to a knitting pattern from this cast-on, you should remember to make one plain row before starting the patterns. It will make the ‘unzipping’ less complicated.
- You will need to have a crochet hook for this method.
No6. German Twisted or Old Norwegian Cast On:
This method is a variation of the Long Tail cast-on but is stretchier, making it great for socks! So, if you need unlimited stretch for your project, then this is the way to go. It’s fun to cast and can be done quickly with just a little bit of practice.
Consider these things before choosing the German Twisted (Old Norwegian) cast-on method for your knitting project:
- Warm and thick edge. It’s an advantage if you want to add extra warmth to your hems and cuffs.
- It’s a clean edge that looks a bit decorative and can make any garment look very polished!
- You don’t need to worry about the tail length and risk running out of yarn when you’re casting on.
BUT:
- Prepare to practice a little bit. This method involves twisting the yarn in a way that might be challenging for an absolute beginner.
- This method will use up more yarn due to the twisted stitches.
- You will need to focus on tension. To make this edge beautiful, you will need to make the stitches even.
No7. The Picot Cast On:
This is just a very beautiful, decorative edge with little ‘bumps’ or picots. It will look especially lovely on delicate projects: summer tops, thin socks, and light scarves. I love this method! It looks fun and funky! Is it beginner-friendly, though? It is if you’re determined! But prepare for some back and forth with those needles!
Consider these things before choosing the picot cast-on method for your knitting project:
- This method provides a stretchy edge, that’s why it’s very versatile!
- If you master this method, it will give you a polished and professional edge.
- Unlike many other cast-on methods, this one does not create any knots on the edge. Visually, it’s very smooth.
BUT:
- It will not be as fast as one may want. Because it involves additional steps and back and forth with every picot, you will have to spend more time on it (especially if you have a lot of stitches!)
- The result may not be as defined at the end. So, if you need a tight or very structured edge, you’ll probably have to skip this method.
- Yarn consuming. Get more of it because you’ll need it 🙂
No8. I-cord Cast On:
Creates a very versatile I-cord edge that can be decorative and functional. It will be a thicker, nice, rolled-up edge. The beginning can feel flimsy, but don’t get discouraged, it’s doable if you follow the instructions carefully!
Consider these things before choosing the I-cord cast-on method for your knitting project:
- Looks very professional. The edge knit with an I-cord cast-on will look very clean.
- You will not need extra yarn or calculations for the tail.
- Provides a sturdy edge with a structured-looking finish.
BUT
- This method can be challenging yet totally doable for beginners!
- Slow to knit, especially if you have many stitches.
- The edge will not be very stretchy, so if you need an elastic cast-on method, it will not work.
No9. Crochet Cast On knitting:
This knitting cast on method uses a crochet hook and produces a chain edge, which can either be permanent or provisional. This is one of the simplest cast on methods in knitting. It’s moderately stretchy.
Consider these things before choosing the crochet cast-on method for your knitting project:
- Easy and speedy, that’s why it’s perfect for beginners.
- Your edge will look like a chain and match perfectly with a standard bind-off edge.
- Suitable for knitters and crocketers.
BUT
- It will be a learning curve if you’ve never held a crochet hook. But maybe you’ll find another passion?
- This cast-on method offers less stretch.
- Requires additional tool. If you don’t own a crochet hook, you will have to buy one to use this cast-on method for your project.
So Here It Is!
This is a list of my nine most favorite and beginner-friendly cast on methods that will help set the right visual tone for any of your projects – whatever it is! Don’t be discouraged if it seems overwhelming at first. Give it a few trials, and you’ll be proud of the end result.
