How to Cast On Underarm Stitches for Top-Down Sweaters

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)

Thanks to Skacel for providing the CoBaSi by HiKioo and addi Natura Olivewood Circular Needles used in this tutorial. These products are available locally at many yarn shops and online at Makers' Mercantile.

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)

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