The long tail cast-on method is an excellent way to start knitting projects. It creates a nice, even-looking edge with a bit of stretch, making it a great all-purpose cast-on. In fact, it’s the one I use almost all the time!

If you need to learn how to do the long tail cast-on method quickly, don’t worry! This post will walk you through the process step by step. After watching the video tutorial below, you will be able to quickly and confidently cast on your first row of stitches for any project.

Why I Love the Long Tail Cast-On Method

The long tail cast-on method has been a favorite of mine for many years. I’m pretty sure it’s the first cast-on I learned, and I still use it for the vast majority of my knitting projects. It’s a very popular cast on for good reason!

It’s Quick & Easy to Do

The long tail cast-on is great for casting on lots of stitches quickly. Once you get the rhythm of it, you can cast on each stitch as fast as you count.

Long Tail Looks Nice & Neat

It leaves a row of “anchor” knit stitches at the beginning of your knit piece, which is especially nice if you’re knitting with a stockinette or garter stitch design.

It S-T-R-E-T-C-H-E-S

The long tail cast-on method is also fairly stretchy, making it a great way to start projects like hats, mittens, slippers, and scarves. It is fast, easy, and it’s perfect for beginners.

The Downsides of Long Tail

As I wax poetic about this wonderful cast on, you might be wondering why knitters don’t use it for EVERY project? What’s the downside?

Well, unfortunately, it does have a couple of (minor) drawbacks.

Estimating the tail

The biggest downside to the long tail cast-on method is it’s, well, long tail.

(I recently learned about a fancy long tail cast-on method. It’s solves the tail estimation issue by using both ends of the same ball of yarn, but this is definitely for more advanced knitters!)

Not enough stretch

Long Tail Cast-On Method Video Tutorial

In this video tutorial, I’ll walk you through the long tail cast-on method step by step, even if you’ve never knitted before. We’ll start with a slip knot (don’t worry, I’ll walk you through that too!) and end with 12 stitches cast onto the knitting needle.

You’ll learn it all in about 5 minutes, and with a bit of practice, you’ll be long-tailing like a pro in no time!

Long Tail Cast-On Method Step-By-Step Photo Instructions

Can’t watch the video right now? That’s ok!

Follow these step-by-step instructions to learn the long tail cast-on method without video access.