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Casting on is the starting line of every knitting project. It's how we get the yarn onto the needles and create that very first row of loops to build from. No cast on = no knitting. It’s like laying the foundation before you build a house - or putting the teabag in before the hot water (some things just need to happen first).
There are several ways to cast on, but the goal remains the same: to create a row of neat, even stitches that will support whatever comes next. Whether you're making a delicate baby cardigan or a chunky scarf for yourself, it all begins here.
Before jumping in, let’s talk tools. You don’t need a lot to cast on, but the few things you do need matter. First, yarn. Any yarn will do, but for beginners, a medium-weight (like DK or aran) is a friendly place to start - easy to handle, not too slippery.
Then there's your knitting needles. Again, not too fussy here - just make sure they match the yarn weight. Bamboo needles are lovely for new knitters because they grip the yarn a bit more, making things less fiddly. And finally, a bit of patience. We’re not aiming for perfection on the first go, just progress.
There are quite a few casting-on techniques, each with its own vibe. Some are stretchy, some are sturdy, and some are just super quick when you're in a rush (or impatient to get to the fun part).
This is the classic, go-to method for many knitters. It's neat, stretchy, and gives a nice, firm edge. You’ll need to estimate how much yarn to leave for the tail - roughly three times the width of your project is a decent guess.
Make a slipknot, hold the yarn in a slingshot shape between your thumb and finger, and scoop the needle through the loops. It's rhythmic once you get the hang of it.
Perfect for beginners - this one's slow but steady. You make a slipknot, knit into it, and instead of sliding the stitch off the left needle, you loop it onto the right. Repeat. It builds a sturdy edge and helps practise those first knit stitches.
A bit more structured, this one creates a firm, decorative edge that doesn’t stretch much. It’s a great choice for ribbing or button bands. You begin like the knit cast-on, but instead of knitting into the stitch directly, you insert the needle between two stitches. Fancy, but very doable.
Very quick, very easy - and very loose. You just loop yarn over your thumb and slide it onto the needle. It’s ideal in a pinch (or for adding stitches mid-project), but not the most stable option for an entire row.
Loose loops lead to messy edges; tight loops make the first row a nightmare to knit. Try to keep each new stitch snug against the needle but still able to move easily. If your fingers start to cramp or you’re wrestling the yarn - pause. Shake it out. Then try again.
This depends on what you’re making. Need a stretchy edge? Long-tail or backward loop might suit. Something more decorative and firm? Try the cable cast-on. Think about how the edge will behave once worn or washed.
It happens. You drop a stitch, add one too many, or realise the tension’s all over the place. The good news? It’s usually easier to rip out and start again with cast-on rows than deeper into your project. Just pull the yarn out gently and begin afresh. No harm done.
Your needle shouldn’t squeak when you slide stitches along it. If it does, you’re casting on too tight. Try wrapping the yarn more loosely or using a larger needle size for the cast-on row, then switch back to the correct size.
Too loose, and your stitches might slip off the needle or make the edge sag. Pull the yarn a touch tighter as you place each stitch, but don’t strangle it. Think of it like a firm handshake - not a bone-crusher.
It’s oddly easy to miscount. Say the number out loud as you go (we often do), or pause to count every ten stitches to keep track. If you do end up off by one or two, it’s often best to start again rather than try to fudge it.
This is usually a tension issue - and it gets better with practice. Focus on consistent hand movements. Some people even find knitting to a rhythm or music helps them even things out. Don’t obsess, though. Your first row won’t be perfect and that’s totally fine.
If your cast-on row looks great but the first row is a mess, you might have twisted stitches or skipped one. Take it slow. Check each stitch as you go. And don’t hesitate to unravel and start again if needed. We’ve all been there.
Learning how to cast on knitting is a bit like learning to tie your shoelaces - awkward at first, but second nature in time. Every knitter has a favourite method, and finding yours is part of the journey. Whether you’re making something small for a new arrival or just trying your hand at something creative, a good cast-on sets the tone for everything that follows.
And if you're ready to dive in deeper - or perhaps even need to know how to do cast off knitting - don't worry, we've covered that too. Oh, and if you’re hunting to find the perfect knitting kit in UK, we know a place you’ll love (hint: it’s us).
Knitting starts here. Let’s get those stitches on the needles.
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