I’ve done it and I suspect you have too – you joined the two sides and created a twist in the process.

Well, here’s a way to keep those edges straight so they’re not twisted.

What Can I Use for the Straightener?

You need to be able to pin through it. And, it shouldn’t be inflexible since it needs to go onto the entire cast on, including curving the cable so you can join it.

I’ve used several pieces of paper here. You could also use a lace edging. Either way, I’d suggest it be at least an inch wide.

How to Avoid the Twist

Step 1: Cast On the regular way

Any way will work here, so just use the cast on that you want to use and get all the loops on the needle.

Step 2: Straighten it out as best you can.

This step isn’t completely necessary, but it does make the next step easier.

Step 3: Using the pin-type of removable stitch markers, pin the straightener onto the cast on. The actual amount of stitches in between doesn’t matter.

Step 4: Join the two ends, making sure that the straightener never winds around the needle.

You’re done!

Other Ways to Work this Cast On

This is my preferred way, but definitely not the only way.

Option #1: You could affix pins to the straightener itself. Then, add it to the needle as you’re casting on. Just cast on some stitches and then slip the pin onto the needle, keeping the straightener to the back. Repeat this process until you’re done.

Option #2 (add this to Option #1): Use this to count by casting on a set number of stitches (we’ll call this “X”) and then slipping the pin on it. Each pin marks X stitches.

Thanks to both Jill Bickers (for telling me about this hack) and to PineSlayerDee on Ravelry for sharing her method.

About the Instructor: Jody Richards

Jody is the founder and lead editor of Knotions. She loves poring over stitch dictionaries and trying out new stitches. And while she likes all things crafting (well ok, except that one thing), yarn crafts are her true love (and she has the stash to prove it).

She’s a serial starter-of-projects and has a serious problem with finishing things without a deadline.

And don’t get her talking about hand-dyed yarns.  You’ve been warned.