Long Tail Cast-On

The most common cast on method is the long tail. To make sure you have enough yarn, use the general rule of 4 times the length of the hem of whatever you are knitting as your guide.

Cast On for Double Pointed Needles

If you are trying to cast-on using double pointed needles and the instructions say to “divide stitches evenly”, it’s not an easy task. So that the needles don’t slide out while you are manipulating those stitches and needles, use small rubber bands. As you distribute the stitches, put the rubber bands on both ends of the needles to keep things from slipping. When you knit the first round, remove the bands as you go keep them on for a few rounds until the needles will stay as you knit.

Crochet Cast-On

This crochet cast on method is easy and works well for most applications. One advantage to crochet cast on is there is no right or wrong side unlike the knitted on, cable and long tail cast on methods.

An easy way to do this cast on method is to make a slip knot with yarn and place it on the crochet hook. With yarn going under your knitting needle, draw up a loop using the crochet hook. This will create a stitch on the knitting needle. Continue to draw up loops until there is 1 less number of required sts are on needle. Put remain loop from crochet hook on to the knitting needle.