This chapter is part of our Cast-Ons Video Class. Click here to learn more.
Short-Tail or Long-Tail? The Two Types of Cast-Ons
There are two types of cast-ons out there: short-tail cast-ons and long-tail cast-ons.
Long-Tail Cast-Ons
In a long-tail cast-on, two strands of yarn are used: the working yarn and another long piece of tail yarn.
You can ONLY use a long-tail cast-on to START a knitting project, because when you're in the middle of a project, you only have one strand of yarn available to you (the yarn coming off the ball, i.e. the working yarn).
Long-tail cast-ons are generally fast and recommended. The only challenge is estimating exactly how much tail you'll need: you might waste a little yarn if you estimate too much or have to get creative if you estimate too little.
When you are casting on for the beginning of a project, where you will generally be casting on a large amount of stitches, choose a long-tail cast-on unless there is a short-tail cast-on whose edge you greatly prefer.
Short-Tail Cast-Ons
A short-tail cast-on can be used anywhere in your project. If you need to cast on in the middle of a project, you can always do a short-tail cast-on, in other words, a cast-on that requires only one strand of yarn.
If you are in the middle of a project and your pattern calls for you to cast on more stitches, choose a short-tail cast-on.
You can also use a short-tail cast-on at the beginning of your project, especially if you prefer the way it looks. Many knitters love to start their reversible projects (baby blankets, scarves, etc.), with the Chinese-Waitress Cast-On, a famous and interesting short-tail cast-on.
The cast-ons in this guide are divided into long-tail cast-ons and short-tail cast-ons, so it will be easy for you to pick one.
