Knitted Cast On Knitting Technique

The Knitted Cast On is a simple and beginner-friendly way to add stitches to your knitting needle. Because it uses the same motion as the knit stitch, many new knitters find it easier to learn than other cast on methods.

This technique creates a firm edge and requires only a short yarn tail, making it a practical choice for many knitting projects. In addition to starting a project, the Knitted Cast On can also be used to add stitches at the beginning, middle, or end of a row when shaping your knitting.

Why Use the Knitted Cast On?

The Knitted Cast On is a popular choice because:

• Uses the same motion as the knit stitch
• Easy for beginner knitters to learn
• Requires only a short yarn tail
• Creates a stable edge
• Can be used to add stitches within a project while knitting

While the Long Tail Cast On is often preferred for its elasticity, the Knitted Cast On is an excellent option when you want a simple method that does not require estimating a long yarn tail.

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How to Work the Knitted Cast On

Begin with a slip knot on your left needle.

Insert the right needle into the slip knot as if to knit. Wrap the yarn around the right needle and pull through a new loop. Place that new loop onto the left needle. You have now created one additional cast on stitch.

Repeat these steps until you reach the desired number of stitches.

Once you know the basic motion, this cast on becomes especially helpful when a pattern asks you to add stitches while your project is already on the needles.

For a complete demonstration, watch the video tutorial above.

Love Knitting Help? Visit my entire Cast On Knitting Techniques section for more great tips!

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Using the Knitted Cast On During a Project

One of the advantages of this technique is that it can be used after a project has already begun.

Add Stitches at the Beginning of a Row

Work the Knitted Cast On onto the left needle before continuing across the row.

Add Stitches in the Middle of a Row

Cast on the required number of stitches, then continue knitting across the existing stitches.

Add Stitches at the End of a Row

Work to the end of the row, then use the Knitted Cast On to add the required number of stitches before turning your work.

These techniques are commonly used when shaping garments, creating buttonholes, or working design elements that require additional stitches.