If you're just starting out with Knitting, chances are you've encountered various cast-on methods. But have you stumbled upon the 'Turkish Cast On' yet? It's not your everyday technique, but it's a fascinating one to add to your knitting repertoire! This seamless technique will give your circular knitting needle projects a professional finish. Today's blog is all about this unique technique. So keep reading!
Understanding the Turkish Cast On
Let's first go over the basics of the Turkish cast on before moving on to the how-to. Another name for it is Eastern. This invisible cast-on method is beneficial in creating a closed piece of cloth. It forms the foundation for working in two flat halves or in the round. It can be used to make toe-up socks, pillowcases, bags, and anything else that calls for seamless beginnings and round knitting. This technique is the second cast-on method that a beginner learns because it is incredibly easy and versatile.
Now, let's get started with the step-by-step process!
Step 1: Prepare the Needles
It's important to prepare your needles properly. Here's what you need to do:
- Choose interchangeable or fixed circular knitting needles that are suitable for your project and the desired tension.
- The size of the needles will depend on the thickness of your yarn and the gauge you want to achieve.
- Make sure that the needles are smooth and in good condition, without any snags or rough edges that could snag your yarn.
- If needed, attach any stitch markers or other knitting accessories to the needles before starting the Turkish cast-on.
Step 2: Create a Slipknot
Now that your circular knitting needles are ready, it's time to create a slipknot. This slipknot will serve as the anchor for your Turkish cast-on. Adjust the size of the slipknot. It's essential to start on the right foot!
Step 3: Make Loops around the Needles
Hold both the needles in hand, ensuring that the needles are parallel. With the working yarn in your right hand, bring it to the front and wrap it around both needles counterclockwise. This action creates a loop around the needles, setting the foundation for your project. Each little wrap will create two stitches. So, if you want to cast on 20 stitches, then you would have to create 10 wraps; do not count the slip knot.
Step 4: Turn your work
Now that you have cast on a desired number of stitches, it's time to turn your work. Pick up the working yarn as you usually would pull out the bottom needle, and simply start knitting across the top needle.
It's really that simple. Just wrap around and knit across. And you can do this on double pointed needle as well. Or if you are handling a larger project, then interchangeable circular knitting needles would be most suitable even for knitting in a flat.
Step 5: Unravel the slip knot
Once you've reached the end, turn your circular knitting needle; here, you can see the initial little slip knot we created. It's time to unravel it.
Step 6: Continue Knitting
Pull out the bottom needle and simply follow the standard magic loop technique. Congratulations! You've successfully completed the Turkish cast on. You should have 10 stitches on either side. And now, continue knitting with the stitches you've just created. Follow your desired knitting pattern or instructions to bring your vision to life. The possibilities are endless!
Advantages of the Turkish cast-on
Now that you've learned this technique let's explore the advantages that make it so popular among knitters.
Seamless Beginning
One of the main advantages of the Turkish cast-on is its ability to create a seamless beginning for your circular knitting projects. Say goodbye to unsightly gaps or seams where your Knitting begins. With the Turkish cast on, you'll achieve a clean and professional finish that will impress even the most discerning eyes.
Versatility
The Turkish cast-on isn't just limited to toe-up socks. This technique can be applied to various projects, including small tubes or bags worked from the center out.
Relatively Easy to Learn
While the Turkish cast may seem daunting initially, don't be discouraged. With practice and guidance, you'll find it relatively easy to master. Following our step-by-step instructions and referring to visual resources, such as images or videos, you'll be Turkish casting on like a pro in no time.
You've expanded your repertoire with another cast-on technique. Continue exploring various casting methods to become an expert in them all.
Source by-
https://www.ekademia.pl/@lanternmoonhandcrafted/post/how-to-do-turkish-cast-on