This photo tutorial demonstrates how to cast on additional stitches at the beginning of a knitted-on lace edge, where you want a neat continuation of stitches along the side.
This technique is used in the Beltane Stole, a shawl with a slipped-stitch edge running its length on both long edges. By using the crochet cast on method, this slipped-stitch edge is maintained into the knitted-on end details.
For this cast on you will need a crochet hook the same size as your knitting needle, or a size larger, depending upon the pattern requirements. You will cast on one less than the number specified in the pattern, using the loop on the crochet hook as the last stitch.
Step 1
The shawl is ready for a knit-on edge
Step 2
Place the crochet hook through the slipped edge stitch as if to knit the stitch.
Step 3
Loop the yarn over the crochet hook and pull through, leaving the edge stitch on the knitting needle.
Step 4
Hold the crochet hook in front of the knitting needle, with the yarn behind the knitting needle, loop the yarn over the crochet hook.
Step 5
Pull the yarn through the loop on the crochet hook, forming a new chain loop on the crochet hook and one extra stitch on the knitting needle.
Step 6
Reposition the crochet hook in front of the knitting needle, and the yarn at the back of the knitting needle. Loop the yarn over the crochet hook.
Step 7
Pull through the loop on the crochet hook, forming a new crochet chain loop and a second cast on stitch on the knitting needle.
Work steps 6 and 7 until you have cast on one less than the total required.
Step 8
When you have cast on the required number of stitches, less one, place the chain loop on the crochet hook onto the knitting needle without twisting. This forms the final cast on stitch.
The three stitches cast on.
The cast on from the under side, showing the loops carrying on seamlessly from the slipped-stitch edge.
Edge view of the cast on after completing the knitted-on edge
Front view of the knitted-on edge, the cast on stitches blend seamlessly with the slipped-stitch edge.
