Cast On, Bind Off (13 page)

Reach with the crochet hook over the top of the needle, grab a loop of yarn, and pull it through the loop on the crochet hook. This is 1 stitch.

Move the yarn behind the needle again.

Repeat steps 2–4 until you have one less than the desired number of stitches cast on. Slip the stitch on the crochet hook onto the needle.

a.k.a. Twisted German, Elastic Long-Tail

This cast on is a variation
of the Long-Tail Cast On (
page 25
). It is, however, much more elastic, making it suitable for socks and other pieces that need a very stretchy edge. After years of using the Long-Tail as my go-to cast on, I discovered the Old Norwegian, and it became my new best friend. I love the extra elasticity it adds, without losing any neatness.

CHARACTERISTICS

• Very elastic

• Neat edge

GOOD FOR

• Any stitch pattern and any project

• Cuffs of socks, mittens, gloves, and hats

Make a slip knot, leaving a long tail (
page 13
). Place it on a needle and hold yarn in the slingshot position.

Insert the needle tip under both strands of the tail yarn on your thumb.

Come over the top and down into the thumb loop, coming out underneath the strand that is in front of your thumb.