How to Do a Simple Cast On in Knitting

A simple cast on is a great cast on for small projects that you don't need to cast on a lot of stitches for. The buttonhole edges of sweaters is a perfect use for this cast on. This cast on is not a good one for larger projects that you need to cast on a large number of stitches since the loops are somewhat difficult to knit from.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Create a slip knot.

2. Slip the slip knot onto the knitting needle.

3. Hold the knitting needle in your right hand and the yarn in your right hand.

4. With your palm facing you, wrap the yarn around your thumb from the back to the front. Hold the end of the yarn between your palm and the rest of your fingers.

5. Pick up the front of the loop around your thumb from the bottom and slip the yarn off of your thumb.

6. Gently pull the end of the yarn so the loop is tight against the knitting needle. Make sure that none of the stitches slip off the needle. This cast on method isn't very durable and the new stitches will easily come off the needle if you're not careful.

7. Catch the end of the yarn again with your thumb and wrap another stitch with the knitting needle. Repeat until you have all the stitches that you need for your project.

Tips & Warnings

• One of the difficulties of the open cast on it keeping the stitches even and neat so that you have a clean and attractive edge. Try to keep the tension on the cast on stitches even. This will help you knit the first row evenly.