Loom Knitting: The Chain Cast-on
In this loom knitting series you’ve learned quite a few stitches and two ways to bind off, but I only showed you one way to cast on. I’d like to show you the chain cast-on which is a tad more complicated and uses a crochet hook. Casting on is how you start any project on a loom and so far you only know the E-wrap cast-on which is a perfectly fine way to start most projects. The chain cast-on, however, is better for those times you wish to use a round loom to make a flat panel.
Flat panel from a round loom
Don’t worry, I’ll show you how to make a flat panel on a round loom next time, but first thing’s first. Let’s do the chain cast on, if you please.
What you need
any size loom with hooking tool
worsted weight yarn
crochet hook, F,G or H are best, but any size works
Instructions:
1. Make a slip knot and place the loop on the first peg. As always, it makes sense to start at the anchor peg.
easy slip knot
2. Slip the crochet hook into the slip knot loop from the inside of the loom and slightly pull the loop to go around the back of the next peg. (I find it easier to go counter-clockwise when doing this, but that may be because I am right-handed. If left-handed, you may wish to try it in reverse.)
Slip knot on first peg
3. From the front of the peg, pickup the working yarn with crochet hook, pull yarn through the loop. First chain cast on made.
Insert crochet hook in slip knot
4. Continue in this way making 1 chain cast-on around each peg until desired number of chain cast-ons are done. I went all the way around until I reached the last peg. I wanted to make the biggest panel I could on this little loom.
Grab the yarn and pull it through
5. At the last peg, place the loop which is on the crochet hook onto the last peg making sure the working yarn is between these last two pegs.
One chain cast-on done
Now you’re ready to make a flat panel. The chain cast-on is good for projects where it would look better to have a uniform edging on either end, such as a baby blanket or place mat. The chain cast-on looks much like the binding off so both the beginning and end of the project look like a crocheted edging.
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Glory Lennon learned needle crafts like sewing, knitting and crocheting from her mother who used to spend countless hours making intricate doilies, clothing items and heirloom quality bedspreads. Visit Glory’s Garden on Craft Tuesday and see what she’s up to in the craft room.
