Long Tail Cast On (Thumb Version)

The long tail cast on is one of my favorite ways to cast on stitches. Even though it creates a very nice edge, many knitters are intimidated by this cast on because traditionally the yarn and tail are held in the "slingshot" position, which can be confusing. Luckily, there's another way to manage your yarn that creates the same results, but may be easier to understand.

The thumb version of the long tail cast on may be easiest for English style knitters because the working yarn is managed with the right hand, just like it is when you knit.