Beginner's Knitting - Learn how to cast on

Knitting is a wonderfully creative and therapeutic craft that allows you to create beautiful and warm creations with just a few simple tools and techniques. I started knitting when I was just 4 years old, and I was totally hooked.

However, one of the first things you'll need to learn when you start to knit, is how to cast on. Casting on is the foundation for your knitting project.

In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps of casting on, so you can start your knitting journey confidently.  We will also link through to a really useful video from our favourite supplier, King Cole.  If you are interested in learning how to do stocking stitch too, then please watch through the whole video.

Step 1: Choose your method:
There are several methods to cast on in knitting, but the two most common onesare the long-tail cast on and the 2 needle cast on method. The long-tail cast on is versatile and widely used, while the knitted cast on is ideal for beginners. For the purpose of this tutorial, we will outline the knitted cast on method.

Step 2: Prepare your yarn and needles:
Make sure you have the appropriate yarn and needles for your project. The yarn label or knitting pattern will usually specify the recommended needle size. Once you have your yarn and needles, you're ready to start. In this video, King Cole uses Big Value Chunky Yarn, with 6 mm needles. 

Step 3: Make a slipknot:
Start by making a slipknot. To do this, create a loop with your yarn, ensuring that the working end of the yarn is on top. Insert your needle into the loop and tighten the loop by pulling the working yarn gently. The slipknot should slide easily on the needle, neither too tight nor too loose.

Step 4: Insert the needle into the slipknot:
Hold the needle with the slipknot in your hand, this will depend on whether you are left or right handed. Insert the tip of the other needle into the slipknot from front to back, keeping the working yarn behind the needle.

Step 5: Make a stitch:
With the left needle, reach under the working yarn and pull it through the slipknot, creating a new loop on the left needle. Place this new loop onto the right needle, keeping the working yarn behind the needle again.

Step 6: Repeat:
Continue Steps 4 and 5 until you have cast on however many stitches that you need for your project. Remember to keep the stitches loose enough to easily slide along the needle, but not so loose that they become sloppy.  As you become more experienced, this will come naturally.  This is called your "tension" and you may see this referred to on your knitting pattern. 

Step 7: Continue knitting:
Once you have cast on all your stitches, you're ready to start knitting! With the cast-on stitches on your needle, you can begin the first row of your pattern. Follow the instructions in your knitting pattern or continue with your desired stitch pattern.  If you are using stocking stitch, this is also included in the King Cole tutorial video below.

Casting on is the start of your knitting adventure. Don't be discouraged if your first few attempts aren't perfect. Just keep practicing, and before you know it, you'll be casting on with confidence and embarking on a world of knitting possibilities.

So, grab your yarn and needles, find a cozy spot, and enjoy the start of your love affair with knitting and creating beautiful knitted creations. Happy knitting!

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