Long-tail cast on: the all-purpose method in depth
The long-tail cast on is the standard way to start: firm, slightly stretchy and quick. How to work it and how long to make the tail.
By Julia WallinCo-founder and editor
The long-tail cast on uses the tail and the working yarn together. The stitches are firm, slightly stretchy and even. It is the cast on most knitters use by default. The cast-on overview teaches the basic motion.
How to work it
Make a slip knot, leaving a long tail, and put it on the needle. It counts as the first stitch.
Put the tail over your thumb and the working yarn over your index finger. Hold both strands in your palm.
Take the needle up through the loop around your thumb, from below.
Take the needle over the strand on your index finger and catch it with the needle tip.
Bring the needle back down through the thumb loop.
Let the loop slip off your thumb and tighten the new stitch gently. Put your thumb back in position and repeat from step 3.
How long to make the tail
Wrap method: wrap the yarn around the needle 10 times. That length is enough for about 10 stitches. Multiply up to your stitch count and add 15 cm (6 in) for weaving in.
Width rule: the tail is about 3 times as long as the edge is wide, plus 15 cm (6 in).
Two ends: cast on with both ends of the ball, or with two balls. Then the tail cannot run out. Tie the two strands together in a slip knot. This knot does not count as a stitch, so drop it off the needle on the first row. When you are done, cut the extra strand and leave an end to weave in.
If the tail runs out anyway, unravel and start again with a longer tail. That is quicker than trying to save the cast on.
When to use it
The edge is firm with some stretch and suits most projects: hems, scarves, blankets and hats. For a very stretchy edge, such as sock cuffs or hat brims, use the German twisted cast on. For a rounded edge on 1×1 rib, use the Italian cast on.
Frequently asked questions
How long should the tail be for a long-tail cast on?
About 3 times the width of the finished edge, plus 15 cm (6 in). Or wrap the yarn around the needle 10 times: that length casts on about 10 stitches.
Does the long-tail cast on count as the first row?
It works a knit row as you cast on. Some patterns count it as row 1 and some do not, so follow your pattern.
Is the long-tail cast on stretchy enough for socks?
It has some stretch and works for many cuffs. For socks knitted from the top down and for snug hat brims, the German twisted cast on is stretchier.
Why is my long-tail edge tight?
You pulled the stitches too tight on the needle. Cast on with a looser hand, or use a needle one size larger for the cast on.
Co-founder and editor at Knyt. Knits every guide before it is published.
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