How to cast on knitting - 10 methods from easy to advanced [+tips, tricks & many variations]

[@NimbleNeedles]

Support my work and become a patron: www.patreon.com/nimbleneedlez Believe it or not, but the first cast-on i learned was the longtail cast-on and it's still my favorite and go to method. And check out my second channel as well: kzbin.info/door/DUgpVfqgFHcFGq-AkhktoQ It has short & crisp slow-motion videos for almost all important knitting techniques.

[@rjsyarnbarn4596]

hello i started knitting about 4 years ago i am now 16 and love it. im trying ot make a busniss out of my hobby. i have made around $100. do you have any tips for me also just subbed thanks for the cool videos

[@NimbleNeedles]

@@rjsyarnbarn4596 I'm sorry. For many reasons, some of them legal, I can't give business advice here in the comments. thank you for your understanding.

[@rjsyarnbarn4596]

@@NimbleNeedles i understand!

[@shannongwiazda4678]

Are you going to do a video like this one about binding off as well?

[@NimbleNeedles]

@@shannongwiazda4678 possibly yeah. it's on my list at least :)

[@tatyanaviznyak687]

Until recently, I thought there was only one cast-on method, the longtail cast-on, as that's the one my mother taught me. It's amazing how many there are. Thank you for the tutorial! I love how simple you make everything sound, no unnecessary complications. I'm sure I'll reference this one often in the future.

[@NimbleNeedles]

please do...that's why I sort of created it!.

[@lynmortem648]

same here only ever used long-tail but I knew that there were other. just not how to do them.

[@lisalee2594]

A great book with tons of different ways is Cast On, Bind Off. I bought all kinds of books because I only learned about 10 years ago.

[@merkinidgit]

My grandmother taught me over 50 years ago-she did a series of slip knots to cast on. Even she complained about how tedious it was but never let on there were better ways, so I’m sure she was unaware. I think back to my childhood and regret not knitting more only because I hated the casting on! Now I mostly do longtail-a real game-changer!

[@zumschnoor]

Absolute best cast-on tutorial I've ever seen. Concise, efficient, no waffle, and somehow managed to thoroughly show 10 methods in about the time other tutorials show 1 or 2! Thank you!

[@c1nbr4d]

Thank you for sharing your experience with the lovely tips and techniques.

[@c1nbr4d]

I use the different techniques depending on project.

[@helanesteinmuller9279]

I am a half German half Scottish Australian. I learned continental knitting from a German cousin when l was about 5, (62 years ago) but she always cast on for me. A Scottish cousin taught me the English method of knitting and the cable method of casting on soon after, but with twisting the new stitch as I put it on the needle. I’ve tried various other methods for various projects and will try some new ones from your wonderful video; but generally l cast on cable in English and knit the rest in German. 😂

[@tracyvision]

I suspect I’ll be revisiting this video often - what a treasure trove of information! I love how you break down and simplify things Norman, you’re a gifted teacher. I’m a new knitter and first learned the Long Tail Cast On but I never use it. I don’t like the long tail, I usually end up wasting yarn so that I don’t run short, and I just don’t like the way it looks, on ribbing projects especially. One of my go-to’s is the Crochet Cast On. I was a first a crocheter so I find it very familiar to reach for a hook and start casting on, but I also like that I don’t need a long tail, and it makes a pretty edge. I like the German Twisted Cast On for ribbing but you just taught me the tubular cast on - which I know now is based on the Italian Cast On - and I LOVE it!

[@NimbleNeedles]

it's truly perfect for ribbing and looks sooooo neat!

[@Threemore650]

How come it’s all blokes who are the best knitting tutors? 😂 Woolly mansplainers!

[@tracyvision]

@@Threemore650 Norman is great, but there are some wonderful women teachers too, like Roxanne Richardson.

[@Threemore650]

@@tracyvision I like mansplain.

[@marianne9317]

As someone who is back here for like the fifth time now, this checks out!

[@trumpetmom8924]

My mother taught me the knit cast on and I never used anything else. I had heard and seen in my knitting books other techniques, especially the single cast on, but I couldn’t wrap my head around it without a live demonstration & explaination to follow. I am hoping to teach a beginner knitting elective to 7th and 8th graders next semester where I teach, so I came here to learn at least one other cast on method. Now I can teach the students both single and knit cast on, so they will have a stretchy and a solid technique to use. And now I do too! Thank you! 😊

[@Midnitescarlett]

I was 4 or 5 when I started learning how to knit and crochet (I am 47 now). My Nana taught me the long tail cast on, but a much simpler method. Now I use the slingshot method without a long tail, and sometimes the one with two needles. I first learned English knitting, bur while checking out all the knitting tutorials I could find, I followed you, Norman, to learn continental. It is way easier and faster, especially for anyone with issues with their hands/fingers. I find it to be closer to the way I would crochet using my left hand for the tension and holding the yarn. I love the way you make these so easy. I am also really happy that knitting qnd crocheting have not become lost art forms. It is very encouraging to see so many people of different ages doing these tutorials! Thank you for all the work you put in to this amazing series.

[@swedishjazz9546]

I actually let out a surprised "ooh~" out loud when you showed the knitted cast-on. Every one of your videos I've seen feels like an entire class' worth of knowledge! My first cast-on, and the one I've been using all my lif,e is long-tail - I learned it at school when I was 7, and I didn't even know there were other cast-ons until I seriously got back into knitting about five years ago. I've had to rip out my starting stitches because of miscalculating how much of a tail I need more times than I care to count, but on the other hand, my muscle memory for it is unparalelled.

[@NimbleNeedles]

ha..that's the spirit. Always look at the bright side of things!

[@vivienneclarke2421]

I usually always use the Longtail CO because it's so easy I can do it without even thinking lol...... I can't afford to waste ANY yarn so I've done the same as you,ripped off my CO to shorten the tail 😄And yeah,,muscle memory is an awesome gift~!!

[@isabelg6841]

Wrap the yarn around your needle as many times as the number of stitches you want to cast on (then unwrap it 😅), that will be the length you need

[@tomgirldouble3249]

@@isabelg6841 an interesting tip, thank you.🧶

[@spookynoctua]

I never knew that how you casted on was important for the basis of the next row of stitches! I've been knitting for almost a year now and I've always used single cast on or German twisted cast on for stretchy knits. Just goes to show you learn something new every day :) Thank you for another wonderful tutorial, Norman!

[@TheSuzberry]

I learned the knitted cast on first. That way I didn’t have something to learn that I only used once in a project and I didn’t have to calculate a ‘long tail’. My favorite cast on is the Chinese Waitress cast on, it gives you a cast on that looks crocheted on both sides. There is no wrong side, so it works for patterns that start with a right side as well as a wrong side.

[@minatibaro2306]

Oh, thanks for mentioning the Chinese Waitress cast on! I just looked it up and I love it already!

[@claudinemcbride9646]

I love the Chinese waitress cast on as well. It makes a beautiful cast on edge. Very neat and clean.

[@janbailey263]

KUDOs! You are an excellent teacher! Every one of these techniques are explained so well that even a beginner will be able to learn these! I was taught knitting by my neighbor at the age of 4... that was 67 years ago! I am still learning new techniques! Thank you!🤩

[@NimbleNeedles]

You're very welcome!

[@bsfb3ar]

I used the German cast on the most for years until recently I bought several of Kutovakika Finish pattern and she used all Single cast on.. You are right the first row is a little difficult to start. You are the very best teacher on line . What Admired you the most is how even your finishes products almost like a machine knits.

[@heathergutman6255]

You do an excellent job of explaining how to do things. I've been knitting for more than 60 years and learned several new techniques from this video. Thank you for sharing your expertise. My grandmother taught me the long-tail cast on and that's the one I've been using most of my life. Now I have some "new" methods to try.

[@patElfpat]

I learned the long tailed cast on. I still use it for almost everything. I often run out of tail yarn and need to start all over again. I knew there were substitutes but I haven’t used them much. When I teach kids to knit I teach them the e cast on with the thumb. I hope this is the right name. It gives them an easier start than the long tail. I also teach them my first rule of knitting ( math, spelling, reading, playing a musical instrument and just about anything else) “Don’t say anything about yourself you wouldn’t say to your best friend.” It works for grownups too except adults are used to saying things inside their heads.

[@ritab8248]

I learned to cast on by wrapping yarn around left thumb, inserting needle throwing yarn around it. This was about 55 years ago. Things have improved!

[@samuelorta9713]

I started knitting two months ago and crocheting a week ago and I learned the knitted cast on and always used that, and the tubular cast on for working in circular with straight needles (I still have to buy circular needles!) Thank you for explaining very well all the differences between these cast on!

[@migueldesoledad]

The single cast-on was my first and then I learned (as you have shown) that every cast-on has its own characteristic (i.e. firm or stretchy); so, now I am able to carefully choose the cast-on perfect for each project. I LOVE the provisional cast-on which is currently my new favorite. I tend to 'design on the needle' as I knit along and so being able to grow the work from both ends is appealing to me and magical! And the picot cast-on using the provisional yarn is such a beautiful effect...again, like magic! I will come back to this vlog again and again...what a great resource it is...thank you, thank you!

[@NimbleNeedles]

you are most welcome Michael. And I too love provisional cast-on projects. It's a bit of a pain in the.... but the outcome more than makes up for it ^^

[@patsydf]

First method my mother taught me was the cable cast on, as we knit the British way it's a bit easier for us. Love the picot edge, I'll use it for socks. You are an inspiration!

[@carolbarakat1974]

My mum taught me the knitted cast-on when I was small. Around 50 years later, I started knitting again using the thumb cast-on method, as all the other methods seemed so complicated. Your wonderful video has de-mystified the cast-on techniques, and I'll definitely be using it to help me start using some different methods.

[@popperpea8244]

Absolutely fascinating. Thank you. I was taught to knit by my gran when I was a child but never had the patience for it until 30+ years later. She taught me the knitted cast on using 2 needles. I've recently found the long tail cast on method which had become my favourite, but now after watching this I am going to experiment with some of these methods. I never knew there were so many different cast on methods. I have only recently found your YT channel and love it. Your explanations are perfect. Thank you for all the time you spend on it

[@NimbleNeedles]

a somewhat belated welcome to my channel then. glad my explanations work so well for you.

[@emmeline9309]

I just started seriously knitting after trying to learn and giving up several times, and your videos are so helpful and easy to understand! Definitely the best channel I’ve stumbled upon, thank you for making these tutorials :)

[@NimbleNeedles]

aww..thank you so much Emmeline

[@Hana1LuLu]

This is the most amazing knit guide/tutorial I’ve ever found. I’m glad it was only made 10 months by this point so I wouldn’t feel bad about missing it for years 😆 I’m so SO appreciative about the notes on the stretchiness, the variations, and warnings. It’s all I could want in a lesson!! I’m grateful to have this knowledge. Now onward into figuring out how to make my cast-off end of my scarves match my cast-ons

[@elizabethconvey3242]

Thank you for such an interesting and enlightening video, it's the first time I've viewed your channel (but it won't be the last). I've spent many years machine knitting and whilst the techniques are different, the end result often looks the same. I'm just starting to get back to hand knitting, I can do this sitting on the sofa 😉, so I'm brushing up on methods etc. I'm an 'awkward' but neat hand knitter but impatient so I like chunky yarns. With severe arthritis in my hands (the joys of aging) and a upper limb disability some of the methods you show would be too difficult for me but I was fascinated watching techniques I've never seen before. When I learned to knit, I used the 'thumb' method to cast on but now use the cable one; I'm English so for me, it's easy & neat.

[@komalghadigaonkar178]

Norman its great tutorial as usual. I can't thank you enough for helping us beginners love knitting. God bless you

[@aliekremyesilkanal8921]

This is wonderful Norman! You know what would also be wonderful? If you did an Ultimate Guide version of all the "cast off" methods that you know :) I usually struggle to figure out what cast off to do for a stiff bind off vs. stretchy one, how to bind off brioche knitting or double knitting? I know you already have a series of individual videos for this, but a single video that we can go to everytime (like this one) would be amazing :)

[@NimbleNeedles]

other's have already expressed this need. I'll see what I can do :)

[@TheTeddybear1992]

Yes, I agree, that would be awesome🤗🤗

[@beckyblackham2826]

Truly casting off has so many ways I’ve forgotten! I’d love an “Ultimate” compilation video.

[@mistsinthenight]

I've been knitting for a year and the long tail method has been my go-to so far unless I need something specific, but the purled knitted cast-on you show here is just beautiful! I'd never seen it by purling before and I'm definitely going to start implementing it from now on.

[@jennifersallah3497]

I began with the single cast on, shown to me by my grandmother. However, instead of using my thumb, I'd use my 1st finger. Now, I typically use the knitted cast on or the German tail cast on. This being said, I was thrilled to discover that I've actually learned all of these cast on stitches with the various lessons and projects I've taken over the past few years. Thank you for the video, so helpful! ❤

[@e.s.o.martin5467]

I learned the single cast on when I was 10 and always hated how my yarn would start to unravel when casting on many stitches. The German twisted cast on is one of my current favorites because it is stretchy. I love this video! So helpful to learn so many more methods and their uses.

[@jenniferbuck3467]

I'm a lifelong crocheter and I taught myself to knit about 15 years ago. At that time I did a very simple single needle cast-on. Currently I start all my projects with a two needle knitted cast-on.

[@koosverheul6474]

Thank you so much Norman! I used to hate casting on but this slingshot technique combined with the two-skeins trick is brilliant! Will never have to worry about a too short tail again. Thank you

[@milabulic]

Likewise! So many times I would come up short. Now, no worries.

[@MariaTamaria]

I started with long-tail cast on and had been using it for decades, until I learned to crochet. Then I found a cast on using a crochet needle, loved the simplicity and am now using it for all projects, unless the pattern requires something else. Thank you for your videos, I've learned so much from you 🌻

[@gwendyrose8905]

My Grandma taught me single cast on with throw style (or English...not completely sure) back when I was in my teens. I got so frustrated with how "SLOW" knitting was that I set it aside and haven't touched it again for a VERY LONG time! I've become an avid crocheter instead. However, I recently saw a video on YT where it showed someone knitting. As I watched it, I realized that he wasn't knitting the way I was taught! "WAIT.....there's more than one way to knit????!!!" After doing some more research, I tried Continental style and (with minor personal adjustments) I LOVE it!!! It is SOOOO much faster for me! It has given me hope that I may actually be able to learn how to knit now as well. I stumbled on your channel(s) through my research and I LOVE what you are teaching! This video especially, I was like, "wait....you can cast on purl-wise as well??!!" I will DEFINITELY be going back to this video LOTS in the future to try new things! I'm currently working on a simple stockinette shawl that I will crochet an edge around when I get done, but I already am debating which of the several projects I've found I want to start next! I'm leaning towards a pair of socks, but I don't have any circular needles, so we'll see. I'm hoping maybe Santa will assist with that. ;) ;) Keep up the GREAT videos and know that there is someone "across the pond" who is eagerly learning new things from you. :) --Trudi in Mid-Missouri, USA

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, a lot of "hookers" (:p) say the same thing...continental is so much easier for them as they can hold the yarn the same way. Keeping my fingers crossed santa brings the right thing..and you know..a little nudge might help *grin*

[@CherilynQ]

This is such an unique channel! Thank you sooo much for all the free information!! - Crocheter here learning to knit 🙋🏼‍♀

[@alexpond648]

Learned the German method, but mostly use the longtail cast on. It realy depends on the project. For caps I now single crochet the number of stitches I need, connect them and then I pick up my stiches through the backbump of that crocheted string. I just like the braided look on the edge. I used the provision cast on like you did, to make the cuffs on a sweater I did for my niece.

[@shirleyb4492]

Fascinating tutorial! My mom taught me the long tail cast on over 2 needles almost 60 years ago. Then, learning how to relax in the process, I only used one needle. This method lasted me over 50 years until I began knitting socks. Toe up with Turkish cast on, then top down. I soon realized I needed a stretchier cast on. I chose the twisted German cast on. After knitting close to 500 baby hats with the long tail, I very recently discovered the knit & purl twisted German cast on which is simply stunning on baby hats ~ both visually & in stretchiness. Thank you, Norman for your inspiring YT tutorials!

[@randomrose121]

I really appreciate how you make such an effort to actually *teach* instead of just showing us how to do it. Your skill is truly inspiring and every time I see a video of yours I'm itching to pick up my needles

[@heathermaloney1880]

I first learned the knitted cast on. I am now using the long tail cast on, switching between knit and purl stitches as per pattern, which is a technique I learned from one of your videos. Thank you so much for sharing all of your knowledge. I'm an advanced beginner, and every time I find myself getting frustrated or confused I look up what you have to say on the subject and you get me right back on track! BTW, sooo happy I found your Patreon!!

[@NimbleNeedles]

and i am happy to have you. i always feel so humbled that I can be part of so many fellow knitters' knitting journey!

[@t.k.herrin2788]

Thank you Norman, this was an informative video and I appreciate having the different options all in one video! When I started to knit, I learned the single cast-on. Now, my go-to cast-on is the longtail cast-on.

[@drouinjohnny9036]

I learn at 7 the single cast on....I started knitting again a few years ago and with KZbin a learn so much.....the long tail casting is what i use now....almost finished my second sweater.....🤗🤗🤗

[@nancywillette5368]

“I love you Norman”, is my response whenever I start to watch one of your videos. The first time I said it my husband turned and said “Who’s Norman?” 20 years ago I owned a knitting shop and taught knitting. What I wouldn’t have given to have had your videos. I would have sat my customers down, had them watch your video on the skill in question and THEN worked with them to perfect it. What a great thing that would have been. I have been knitting for sixty years and still learn something every time I watch. Keep it coming.

[@NimbleNeedles]

hope he is not of the jealous type *smirk* And yeah..i can totally udnerstand that sentiment. i learned knitting with books and the basic from my relatives..that definitely was harder!

[@danutagajewski3330]

Wow! So many new ways of casting on! I first learned the wrap around a single needle (similar to Turkish cast-on) with the first row in knit stitch. I was 7 years old, and was taught it in elementary school in England. When I came home and showed my mother how I cast on, she was horrified! She then proceeded to teach me the longtail cast-on (2 needle method). It was rather arduous, as she had been taught to knit in Poland, plus I was left-handed (she was right-handed). A lot of tears and frustration but we both managed to survive (!!) and that's the way I've been casting on ever since (60+ years!). I've only recently discovered your videos, but thank you so much! You've given me a renewed love for knitting!

[@johannacarlander8750]

I’ve always been doing the long tail cast-on but hopefully I can expand my repertoire after this video! Great video as always Norman 😊

[@user-zr9ph7by1h]

Thank you so much 😘 knitting techniques are much easier today than 50+ years ago. Thank you for all that you do.🌺🌹🇵🇷🇺🇲🙋🏽🥰❤️

[@Shelly_Kelly]

I'm a new knitter and the magic loop was so confusing to me until I watched this video. Thank you for heping me understand it!!

[@saraholle6846]

I learned to knit from a booklet I bought in a yarn shop(40 or so years ago). It only showed the single cast on. I somehow learned the long-tail cast on later on, but I do admit, I have played 'yarn chicken' with the tail and have frogged a cast on that was just a few stitches lacking. Thanks so much for explaining and demonstrating, I look forward to trying some of these.

[@Me_Ewe_and_Yarn_Cheryl]

I learnt the cable cast-on first when I was about 8, though I didn't know what it was called - it's just the way Nana showed me. The only difference between "my" cable cast-on and yours is that I twist the stitch as I'm putting it on the needle. I knit English style so this is a very easy cast-on for me. Fifty-two years later, it's still my most used cast-on and my favourite. I didn't even know there were other ways until 10 or so years ago when I started using the internet. I do use many others, but this is my favourite.

[@NimbleNeedles]

interesting. I thought it would be one of the rarer cast-ons that's not taught to beginners.

[@beckysherman2987]

I too learnt cable cast on first. My Mother taught me and also at school. Now I use lon tail cast on because it is a bit more stretchy. However, when I use the long tail cast on, the tail end starts to un-twist and the ball end gets tighter. On a long piece of work this becomes a problem. Have you a solution?

[@NimbleNeedles]

@@beckysherman2987 you have to stop every couple of stitches and let the yarn balance itself, then pick the yarn up again. Or be very careful not to twist it as you wrapit around your thumb.

[@sharongoode177]

I read Cheryl's comment and thought she was talking about me! My mum taught me how to knit, about 53 years ago and snap! Cable cast on and still my go to method.

[@helza]

Same here. 62 yo. Taught the cable cast on by my mother in England. She had been taught by her mother and never knew there was another way. I wish she had, because our sweater necks were always so hard to get our heads through when we were kids! 😁

[@jackieokcal4888]

I oiginally learned with the knitted cast-on now I always use the cable cast-on, I'm an english knitter. I love your provisional cast-on method! How good is you tube to help us find people like you!!

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah..it's such a great place to connect with other knitters

[@eileennahan7830]

I started with long tail, then picked up knitting cast on. I now knit socks and use Judy’s magic cast in. I will try the Turkish cast on. This is a wonderful tutorial. Thank you

[@CaroAtCarosReads]

I learnt with the knitted cast on method, but after finishing my most recent project, I wasn't happy with how stiff the top was, nor how difficult the first row is to knit. So I saw the single cast on and I fell for it. So I tried it with my current project. It's PER-FECT! But then I realised that I don't knit "normally". haha I'm left-handed, but I knit as a right-handed person in the way I hold my needles, but all the while holding the yarn like a left-hander. Still, I was able to manage the single cast on perfectly and I love it. It makes the top of the project (in this case, a shirt) so much more flexible! Thank you for your fantastic tutorials, Norman! :)

[@NimbleNeedles]

Glad u were able to adapt

[@fionagill2171]

I learnt cable cast on as a child from a book - Mum knitted too fast to teach me her cast on which she said was better. I absolutely love this video! You have solved my biggest problem with long tail cast on. I never thought to use another ball. Also, I am AMAZED at the stretchiness of the Italian cast on. I have been showing my partner my little swatch - "See how stretchy it is! And I didn't use a double needle!" They're not impressed but their next pair of socks should slip over their heel like a bought one.

[@giuliavalle5751]

Best Cast on video ever!!! At the begging I was using Single Cast on and now a variation of the Long Tail Cast on. Many thanks for sharing !! I cannot wait to try different variations!!!

[@kj3d812]

Since I do Portuguese style knitting, I learned the Portuguese cast-on first. I love it because it's based on the Portuguese style purl, which is so super easy (we prefer purling over knitting!), and the cast-on is also super easy.

[@danbev8542]

Wonderful video! Such good explanations! After much elementary knitting, I’m curious about all these different cast ones I’ve been avoiding for so long! I was taught long tail cast on as a child by just using one thumb. I guess I also learned knit & purl around that same time - probably when living in Kansas. No one in my family knitted, so I promptly forgot it & took up sewing instead. In my late 60’s, I wandered into a yarn shop in Vermont & was blown away by the beautiful wool. I bought some yarn & was astonished to find that my fingers remembered how to do the English-style long tail cast on! 🧶

[@cynsabonorris1924]

single cast-on was the first I ever learned but you've absolutely given me a brand-new appreciation -- both for how versatile it is but also how to do it properly! also I want to try some of these more complex ones as well. thank you so much for the marvelous video!

[@61keypiano]

My mom & school taught me English knitting. Cable cast on is the first technique I was taught and I use it to this day. I want to expand my horizons though which is why I am watching this video. Thanks for your detailed explanations Norman.😊

[@Aromagirl70]

Mind is blown!! This excites me to pick up my needles again... I have been devoting my spare time to crochet but have been missing my circulars! Thanks for the inspiration and amazing tips and techniques!

[@hollywaddell6727]

When I was a child, probably 7 years old, I was given a little beginner kit by my eldest sister. She was learning to knit from her new friend who was an expert continental knitter. So my sister taught me the long-tail cast on and that’s all I ever knew existed until You Tube captured my inquisitive exploration. Nowadays I am only knitting prayer shawls and I can’t tell you how many times I have had to unravel my cast-on because I ran out of yarn before reaching the required number of stitches. 😠 So I went searching for alternatives. I appreciate this video with so many variations in one place. I will definitely be trying those cast-on methods that use the working yarn only, leaving just that short tail at the beginning. I also used the two-ball method once but forgot about it. Thanks for the reminder!

[@trudygraves7579]

Thank you for your tutorials. I just started knitting three days ago and I’ve made so much progress because of you. Thank you!!!

[@judyreel1544]

Sorry I am new to making comments here as well, hit enter by mistake a second ago. I did want to say that I have learned what I do know about knitting from videos and books as I do not know anyone in my circle of friends who knits. Norman you and your videos are my favorite!! You make it clear, I like your attitude and you are easy to listen to. Thank you for sharing so much with all of us!!

[@NimbleNeedles]

it's my pleasure, Judy! Thank you for sharing your feedback with me.

[@louisegyldensted1197]

I learned the long tail cast on as 8 yo from my grandmother, I still use it almost every time I start a knitting project. This way I can mirror the stitches to get the purl or knit cast on stitch for rib edges as needed. Just so simple. I always hold the tail around my thumb, but I don’t know if it really makes any difference. Also when I cast on more than 40-50 stitches I start with 10 stitches, then undo them and measure the yarn length used to multiply to get a sufficient tail length for my total number of cast on stitches. Also I always cast on on either bigger or two needles. Thank you Norman for another brilliant video 🤩 you rock! 🤟

[@jeaninegunn4118]

I learned to cast on with a slightly modified long tail cast on which uses the left thumb as a needle which you wind yarn around and insert a needle through as if to knit. Very Pink Knits is only other person I know that uses the same method. Nowadays I use a variety depending on project. Great video and thanks!

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, you can actually knit the longtail cast-on a couple of different ways. And for english throwers her version makes a bit more sense.

[@lisagatto2753]

Cast on that I use the most is the slip over the thumb. I'm thankful for your video as it has taught me how to have some quiet time to myself. 😊

[@theastewart6721]

Fantastic video Norman! Definitely a go to resource for all of us! When I first learned to knit as a child I learned the single or backwards loop cast on. Then as a young adult I learned the knitted cast on twisting the stitch. It’s so much faster than removing the needle all the time. Then about 10 years ago or so I learned the long tail cast on when I started taking knitting and crochet lessons. I had never heard of it! I would say it is my go to cast on. Since taking classes, which we only stopped due to the pandemic, I’ve learned all of these cast ons except for the ICord Cast on and the Picot Cast on! Who knew! You’ve already taught me the Picot Bind Off! Your video encourages me because I have learned a lot these past 10-15 years yet there is still so much to learn! I consider myself an intermediate knitter. When we made a mobius cowl we used something like the Tubular cast on. It was wild!! Thank you for going into so much detail about all of these methods. I’m sure expert knitters will agree that you’ve taught us all something! I first learned Judy’s Magic Cast On the way you show it, but then one of my tutorials showed how to do it where all the stitches are properly oriented so I do it that way. The late Cat Bordhi figured it out. Not that knitting through the back loop is any big deal but I was impressed that it could be tweaked! Thank you again for such an amazing video! So full of useful information! Have a wonderful week!🤗🤗

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah...you can knit these italian cast-on variations in quite a couple of different ways. I just didn't want to confuse people too much with yet another different version, so that'S why I stuck to the classic "judy's magic cast on".

[@theastewart6721]

That makes sense. This is just such a well thought out video filled with very useful information. I have a question. When doing the cable cast on do you ever enter the stitch in both ways like with the knitted cast on, either straight in or underneath thereby twisting the stitches? I’m just curious. I have only used it a few times and frankly can’t remember. Thanks again for all of your hard work!

[@belligerentkitten]

My grandmother taught me the knitted cast on when I was 7, and I've been using it ever since. I haven't needed to learn anything else so far

[@cherylelinsmith743]

Just watched the cast on video. Was so glad to see one of them is the one I was taught to do by my Mom. Thanks

[@lynnetaylor8974]

I was taught the knitted cast on method by my mother when I was 15 (50 years ago). Until the advent of the computer and KZbin I didn't know there was another way to cast on. I didn't have a community of knitters so wasn't learning anything different. Now I like the long tail cast on and the cable cast on is my favorite.

[@ShoreShihTzuNurs]

Many years ago I learned the backwards thumb cast on. Now, Norwegian CO is my go to. Ty for this video!

[@GamerGoober69]

oh my god thank you so much 😭😭 i'm really bad at making anything with my hands and of all the tutorials i've seen this is the easiest to follow and helps me understand why i'm doing what I'm doing!

[@BridgetHughes-f9y]

Coming back to knitting after more than a decade (I only learned garter stitch then). First cast on I learned was the long tail/double cast on, which I'm still using, since I haven't learned any others (yet, that's why I'm watching this video ^_^). Thank you for all the work you do, its helped me a lot.

[@DeerlyMusical2]

My mother taught me the longtail cast on. I've been using the e-loop cast on, but reaching around and making the front leg into the back leg. It's slightly more stable than the e-loop, and just a little easier to knit into. However, you have shown so many nice caston edges, and done such a marvelous job explaining them, I'm going to have to view this tutorial a zillion times to decide which caston will be easier for me. As you say, however, some of them are more suitable for certain uses. I guess I'd better learn them all. 🙂 Thank you for taking the time to make this video.

[@margarethastings3332]

A very interesting and informative tutorial. Thank you. I first learned to knit at school (age 5), Scottish style with long straight needles, one tucked under the armpit. We were taught the knitted cast on and I hated it because it always looked loopy and loose and I thought I was a bad knitter. Then my mother showed me how to cast on using the thumb method, but the stitch was knitted off the thumb, not just placed on the needle as in the backward loop. I’m 72 now and still learning new things. I knit a lot of socks nowadays, and always use the German twisted cast on which I learned through tutorials such as yours. Incidentally, I only recently discovered that the knitted cast on is used in Shetland for the knitting of fine lace shawls, and now I see that there is a purpose for that loopy edge!

[@earthling13]

Learned the single cast on when I was five. 50+ years later I mostly use long tail. You added to the possibilities!

[@magnifiekvervloekt]

I am an avid crocheter and have been trying to learn how to knit for a while now--this video helps a lot and for some reasons makes me very happy when I see how you do the different methods of casting on. thank you very much for this!

[@SM-tg7vl]

frustrated with the tightness of the single cast on, and never confident in determining a length for a long-tail cast on, i came here only in search of a new method that would avoid these problems. you are supremely knowledgeable and your talent for teaching in such a clear, understandable manner is so admirable. i learned far more than i came here for! thank you for this wonderful video :)

[@andie62]

I’ve been using the cable cast on for over 55 years, since I learned to knit as a 5yr old in England. I had no idea it was called that. I thought I had invented my own way of making the knitted cast on neater by going between the last 2 stitches to cast on the next stitch. Funny to learn that “my” method actually has a name😂 My cast on stitches are lovely and stretchy, so I use this method for everything, including socks. After 30 odd years in Scandinavia, I still get comments about my strange cast ons and throwing style knitting, but it works for me and I knit fast 😂 That is usually the comment I get when people watch me for a while - hmm very odd style you have, but it doesn’t seem to slow you down. I’ve watched everyone do the long-tail cast on here for years - but I think my method is neater and just as stretchy. Fascinating video, thank you for posting this video it is a mine of information 😊

[@missingaria2503]

Getting back into knitting for the first time in a while and I've been binging your video series. Your stich marker tips and tricks video has been a lifesaver, I love threading my lightbulb markers though my circular needles instead of putting on stoppers every time. I learned the knit on methods from my grandmother. She tried to teach me another method when I was a kid, but the knit on was what stuck. I make a lot of scarves and such (I live in a cold area so everyone needs them) and I love the eyelets it creates for when it comes time to add a fringe. It also looks good with a feather and fan or anything with nice big open stitches.

[@lindahinds8388]

I first learned the single cast on. I quickly learned the long tail cast on, which is my go to cast on. I do enjoy learning anything new when it comes to knitting and crocheting.

[@NimbleNeedles]

same here. that evena fteall these years there is still something new to learn is just so amazing!

[@hitrold]

I was taught the longtail cast-on method when I was five years old and I still love that method. But the German cast on method is competing to become my favourite.But the Turkish cast on is just amazing - thank you for showing us this method.

[@bsfb3ar]

Great teacher. Can't say enough how much I've learn watching this episode.

[@KathyReedKnits]

This video is a gold mine of information. I have already recommended it to several of my knitting friends!

[@apames1]

I started with long tail cast on, and is the only one I have ever used. It's fun to see these interesting cast on's. I plan on trying them as I can.

[@G-grandma_Army]

I will definitely save this video and refer to it from time to time. Thank you for sharing it! From Texas

[@kayed9683]

I was taught the two needle cast on 50 years ago but I now use the long tail cast on. ❤️

[@Rose-yj9oe]

Hello Norman I’m new to knitting 🧶 but I do crochet 🧶 I never had anyone to teach me how to knit 🧶 so thank you so very much for teaching me how ❤

[@GardeniaMagnolia5]

My first cast on was the. long tail taught by my Grandma!! Yes my go to cast on !!! Thx for your tutorial

[@NimbleNeedles]

You are so welcome, Daisy :) (my grandma taught me the longtail as well)

[@giaannstdenis3661]

I am a self taught knitter and for years have been unable to figure out the German cast on method from the illustrations in books. At last I'll be able to use it! Thank you for your excellent instructions. I'm so glad I found your channel!

[@musicalatina100]

I'm a knew knitter, and I love all of this different cast on. I think you're AWESOME taking your time to show us all this Wonderful cast on. Thank you.

[@lynn8859]

I learned the single cast on and have used it exclusively. I was not aware of so many choices. thanks

[@pamela2400]

My mom taught me the long tail cast on with the twisted loop of the italian cast on at the beginning so it kinda feels like you're doing two loops at the same time with the first slingshot movement. Thank you for the guide, it's perfectly explained and clear. I even learned the long tail cast on makes knits, i was surprised and amazed about all the variations. You're an amazing teacher!

[@VirgsB]

I use the long-tail cast on and the tubular cast on for most of my knitting projects. Thank you for sharing the various cast on methods as well as the many tips and tricks available to the knitter. I learned quite a lot from this video as usual.

[@NimbleNeedles]

Wonderful! then it served its purpose :)

[@jennywatson9949]

I am English and was only taught the cable cast on. Thank you for sharing so many other options Norman 😁

[@kellyross4801]

I've been Crocheting for 45 years and * finally * learned to Knit this last year! Of course, my favorite Cast-on is with the crochet hook. But I 😘 be the idea of some of these!

[@NimbleNeedles]

ha..nothing wrong with that. :)

[@alwaysjiji7198]

i am an absolute novice but I feel that soon I'll be picking up the needles again. This is the boost I need, the inspiration to kick me in the seat. Thank you so much.

[@EyeLean5280]

I learned longtail and that's really all I know so I appreciate this video.

[@patjohnson5586]

Another brilliant video. I was always terrified of trying to do a pico edge but you showed it so brilliantly I am going to start my new project with this edge. WONDERFUL 👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@elainewhitlock352]

I was taught the long tail cast-on 55 years ago. So interesting to see all the other ways to cast on. I am teaching one of my granddaughters to knit so the easier method of casting on will be so much better for her!

[@Marielm1]

Learned the single cast on from my Mother but she used her index finger. I knit mostly socks and use the old Norwegian cast on. Great video. Thank you.

[@NimbleNeedles]

you're welcome & thx for sharing, Marie

[@BadgerandBee]

I learned the single cast-on when I was a little girl, and always hated that it was finicky with the 1st row and not that stretchy. I was thrilled to learn a couple more methods, and usually the long tail cast-on is my preferred method. I appreciate learning so many more from you in this GREAT tutorial. I will try the provisional cast on soon, which is the most BEAUTIFUL of all!

[@susanarendas]

I have been knitting for over 60 years and consider myself an expert, but I sure learned a lot from this video. Awesome job of explaining different cast-ons. I will definitely be using these in my next projects. I first learned the simple cast-on but my favorite for many years has been the long tail cast-on - but who knew you could do some of these purl-wise!!! Thank you so much for this video. I give it 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, you can do any cast-on purlwise...you can even do them twisted but that's probably a bit too esoteric. haha