Many top-down sweater knitters like to use the backward loop method to cast on stitches when it's time to divide the yoke and begin knitting the body of a sweater. I usually take a different approach.
Before You Begin
I don't deny the backward loop cast on is arguably the quickest and easiest way to cast on those underarm stitch. However, I prefer using a cable cast on. Yes, it takes a little more time, but it creates a nicer edge and makes it easier to pickup the sleeve stitches (almost invisibly) later.
Materials
- yarn/tapestry needle
- waste yarn
- locking stitch markers (optional)
Cable Cast On for Underarm Stitches
Recommended Pattern
Ready to try this technique in a pattern? The Wallflower Sweater Pattern shown in this lesson has videos to help you learn more about:
- The Importance of Swatching
- Tracking Progress in Complex Knitting Patterns
- Open Bar Increase (a.k.a. Open Make 1 Increase)
- Decrease Slant and Stitch Charts - 3 Helpful Tips
- Smocked, or Tied, Stitches
- Dividing the Body and Casting On Underarm Stitches for Top Down Sweaters
- Picking Up Underarm Stitches for a Gap Free Sleeve
- Suspended Bind Off (Purlwise)