How to Cast on Stitches?

October 14, 2024 Knit Sis

Want to start knitting but don't know where to start? Don't panic, Knit Sis has you covered!
Casting on stitches is the first essential step to making all your future creations and that's why we've prepared a short video (ideal for watching on repeat or for accompanying you through each new project until you get the hang of it)

In this video, we reveal the classic method for casting on stitches, the one that all beginner knitters should know. Let's go!

The importance of casting on correctly

This is a step you can't skip when knitting! Casting on stitches may seem simple at first, but it's a crucial step. A well-executed cast-on ensures a solid and attractive piece. Casting on too loosely or too tightly can lead to difficulties later on, such as warping or stitches slipping. That's why it's important to master this technique from the beginning.

A little tip though , don't tighten your first stitches too much. It will make it easier for you to work on the following rows and it's a fault that we all have when we start knitting, this habit of wanting to tighten everything +++. This is not what will give regularity to your project

The necessary equipment

To cast on stitches, you will need a few simple tools:

Knitting needles : Choose a size that fits your yarn and project. (straight or circular, although circular needles may be more suitable for beginners)
Wool : Choose a quality wool, easy to work with for beginners and therefore ideally quite thick and without too many small threads sticking out (mohair, that will come later)
A pair of scissors

With this material, you will be ready to get started!

The advantages of the classic method

The classic method for casting on stitches is a simple and effective technique that allows you to obtain a regular and solid edge. It is ideal for beginners because it is easy to remember and reproduce. In addition, this method is very versatile and can be used for all types of projects, from small accessories to full-size sweaters.

This is the technique we learned over 20 years ago now and except for the "provisional cast-on" / Provisional mesh assembly it serves us in all our projects.
We know that another technique exists (also called classic); but it seems less practical to us because you have to estimate the amount of wool needed in advance + it is a little less elastic and regular (still in our opinion, open to debate if you have other opinions ahah)

But without further ado, here is the video: