In knitting, there are various ways to cast on stitches on the knitting needles. Choosing a cast on depends on the knitting project (there are different methods suitable for socks, hats, garments and other projects), the knitter’s skill level and comfort and sometimes the yarn. In this blog, we’ll explore the magic cast on technique, also known as Judy’s magic cast-on. An innovative idea by Judy Becker, a longtime knitter and designer, it’s a wonderful way to cast on stitches for toe-up socks. It is also known as the magic toe-up cast on.
What is the Magic Cast on technique?
In 2006, in an issue of the Knitty Magazine, Judy Becker shared her experiment with a cast on technique for toe-up socks. Explore the original guide on the magic cast on technique here - https://knitty.com/ISSUEspring06/FEATmagiccaston.html
What you’ll need
Knitting Needles: This cast on technique works with any knitting needles of your choice. Whether you are working on socks with double-pointed needles. Or, working on the magic loop method with circular knitting needles and even for projects on knitting two socks at a time, the cast on method comes in handy. Just make sure that the needle size matches the yarn weight.
Once the cast-on technique was featured in the magazine issue, more and more knitters tried and even experimented with their own style.
Skill Level - Intermediate
Estimated learning time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions for Magic Cast On
Step 1 - Set Up the Knitting Needles
Make a slip knot and place the loop around one of the needles. The anchor loop will count as the first stitch.
Hold the two needles together, parallel to each other with the tips facing the same direction. Let’s consider the upper needle as Needle #2 while the lower needle is Needle #1. The slip knot should be on Needle #2 with the needle that the yarn is attached to toward the top.
