How to Cast On: Your First Step Into Knitting

If you're just starting out, learning how to cast on is your very first step and it’s an exciting one. Casting on creates the very first row of stitches on your needle, forming the foundation for everything you knit.

In the video above, we walk you through a beginner-friendly method for casting on, breaking down each step so you can follow along at your own pace.

What Does “Cast On” Mean?

‘Casting on’ is how you get stitches onto your needle so you can start knitting. Think of it like laying the groundwork for a house you can’t start building until the foundation is set. There are many ways to cast on, but we recommend starting with the long tail cast-on method featured in our video. It’s stretchy, neat, and perfect for beginners.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, make sure you have:

• A ball of yarn (a smooth, medium-weight yarn is best for beginners)
• A pair of knitting needles (we suggest 4mm or 4.5mm needles for most DK or worsted yarns)
• A little bit of patience (learning a new skill takes time!)

Top Tips for Success

• Leave a long enough tail: You’ll need enough yarn to form all your cast-on stitches, plus a little extra. A good rule of thumb is to allow about 1 inch (2.5cm) per stitch.
• Keep it relaxed: Don’t pull your yarn too tightly. A snug, but not tight, cast-on helps your first row of knitting go more smoothly.
• Practice makes perfect: Don’t worry if it feels awkward at first. Like anything new, casting on gets easier with repetition.

Next Steps

Once you’ve mastered the cast-on, you’ll be ready to learn the knit stitch, the next building block in your knitting journey. Head over to our How to Knit video tutorial to continue your progress!

Need help choosing the right yarn or needles? Check out our Beginner’s Guide to Knitting Supplies or contact our expert team—we’re always happy to help.

Happy knitting!