Cast-Ons
Backwards Loop Cast-On
This is a beginner cast on that you can teach to anyone just starting to knit, including children.
You can also use this cast-on when you have accidentally run out of tail at the end of your Long-Tail Cast-On or when you are required to cast-on at a midpoint in your knitting (like on a buttonhole).
The edge is not very strong, so this cast-on should be used sparingly.
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To Do the BLCO – Backwards Loop Cast-On:
Start by putting a slipknot on your needle.
- Take the working yarn and make a twist.
- Place the loop on the needle.
- Pull yarn until the stitch is almost snug.
- Repeat steps 1-3 until you have as many stitches as you need.
Long-Tail Cast-On
The Long-Tail Cast-On is a great all-around cast-on.
Use it to begin every project, unless the directions or your further cast-on knowledge specify otherwise.
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To Do the Long-Tail Cast-On:
Setup
- Start with a long tail
- Make a slipknot in your yarn and put it on the needle. This is the first stitch.
- Position the yarn in your left hand. One strand goes over your finger, the other over the thumb.
To Cast On
- Catch the strand of yarn on your thumb.
- Catch the strand of yarn on your index finger.
- Pull that loop through the one on your thumb.
- Let go of your thumb yarn and get back in position.
- Repeat Steps 1-4 until you have cast on as many stitches as you want.
More Info:
Tip: Put either strand of yarn over your thumb. For this cast-on, It doesn’t matter which finger has the tail yarn and which one has the working yarn. Either way is fine.
