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Is there a way to estimate the length of yarn for cast-on? The loose end of yarn ends up either being too long and gets in the way and must be cut. Or it is too short, like the one I just did, and I have to start over. <img src="/images/graemlins/mad.gif" alt="" />

Lucille

Lucille, I was taught to estimate an inch of yarn for every stitch you cast on (i.e., for 40 stitches, start with a 40 inch tail). I find this leave more than enough yarn (which you can tie up or cut off). But at least you'll never run short!

Hope that helps,
Becky <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Hi Becky,

Becky, you win the 5-pound wedge of Gorgonzola cheese! :music:

That is a great solution! Everytime I start over it happens when I get a real good cast-on. When I do over it never comes out as good because I begin to try too hard. Everytime I begin to think I am learning, some other problem crops up.

I looked in my references and the Internet and your hint never showed up.

Thanks for stopping by this forum today! <img src="/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

Lucille

Lucille, the cast on method that is in Lesson 1 does not need a certain amount for the tail end as you are casting on using the ball thread.

Yet another way to do something in knitting! I like the idea of using the ball end, but I learned the other way and will stay with Becky's suggestion for now.

Does each method of casting-on have a particular purpose, or is it just personal preference as to the technique chosen? :rolleyes:

Lucille

Yes, each Cast on method has a purpose depending on which look you want. For instance if you had decided that you wanted to work say the body of your sweater first then you would do an Open cast on so that you could go back and pick up those stitches to create your edging. That way it looks like you made it all in one continuous piece.