An all-time favorite kind of knitting cast-on is the long-tail method. Here's when to use it and how to do it.
Each knitter has a favorite cast-on technique, but some of these techniques work better than others for certain projects. Sometimes, the type of cast-on a knitter uses doesn’t matter much at all. However, each type has its strengths, and each type is preferable for certain kinds of projects. Executing a perfect cast-on will set the quality of any project. One of the most commonly used and favorite methods is the Long-Tail Cast-On Method (LTCOM).
Why the LTCOM is So Popular
A cast-on, no matter which one, is going to leave an edge. How the edge should look and/or function are the properties that come into play when choosing which method to use. For example, some have more “give” and stretch more than others. The LTCOM is stable and is very good for projects that require added edging at their completion.
How to Make a Long-Tail Cast-On
Begin by holding the yarn as shown in Figure 1. (Please click on the pictures to get a detailed look. Left-handed knitters should use the reverse mirror image--all photos can be "flipped" using photo software.) In Figure 1 and all subsequent photos, remember that the working yarn is coming from the left and the tail yarn is coming from the right. The hand that is holding the yarn (the knitter’s dominant hand) should form a “gun” shape. Grab the yarn in the middle with the knitting needle and pull down.
Next, imagine the yarn is in the shape of a mouse’s head. The needle should go through the left “ear” from the left (Figure 2), through the right ear’s center, (Figure 3) and drop once more through the left ear(Figure 4). Then, release the yarn from the thumb and pull up so that the yarn forms a “tent” (Figure 5) Adjust the tension of the yarn by gently pulling or manipulating it until it is properly secured onto the needle.
There should be two loops on the needle at this point. This first cycle will produce two loops on the needle. All further repetitions should produce just one loop at a time. Continue to cast-on by repeating Figures 2 through 5 until the required number of loops is made.
Adding on at the End
When the cast-on is complete, it will have created a row of its own. The LTCOM generates a row that has two sides—one side has little purl bumps and the other side resembles outline stitch in embroidery . Simply choose the one that is more aesthetically pleasing, and make that the "right" side of the knitting. Or, if the piece will have added features, make sure the "outline" stitch is featured on the right side. The purl side, waiting on the other side, provides an excellent base for the addition of an edging.
More Information
More information on cast-ons is in Knit Cast On Topics. There are additional instructions and discussions of at least a dozen types of cast-ons in the book, The Best of Vogue Knitting, 25 Years of Articles, Techniques and Expert Advice. Keep at it—it gets easier as time goes on.
