Alternating Long Tail Cast On for Ribbing

The long tail cast on is one of my favorites because it's fast and easy (once you figure out the motion) and it creates a fairly flexible edge. It works very nicely when your first row is primarily purls or your first round is primarily knits. However, when you're working ribbing, with both knits and purls, the alternating long tail cast on can be a nicer looking alternative.

Before You Begin

When working the alternating long tail cast on, you begin by tensioning your working yarn and yarn tail in the slingshot position. The motion for casting on a knit stitch is the same as the standard version. The motion is almost reversed to cast on the purls.

Materials

• Zitron Trekking Sport
• addi Rocket2 [Squared] circular needles

Thanks to Skacel for providing the yarn and addi needles used in this tutorial. These products are available locally at many yarn shops and online at Makers' Mercantile.

Alternating Long Tail Cast On

Recommended Pattern

Ready to try this technique in a pattern? The Ready, Set, Go Socks pattern has videos to help you learn more about:

• Anatomy and Fit Comparison of 3 Top Down Sock Heels
• Alternating Long Tail Cast On for Ribbing
• Pick Up and Knit
• Wrap and Turn for Short Rows
• The Unforgettable Kitchener Stitch

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