Learn the Perfect Tubular Cast On for the Saturday Shrug

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is a Tubular Cast On?
3. Tools Required for Tubular Cast On
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Tubular Cast On
   1. Using Waste Yarn
   2. Calculating the Number of Stitches
   3. Creating the Slip Knot
   4. Knitting the First Row
   5. Turning and Purling
   6. Continuing the Ribbing
5. Transitioning to Larger Needles
6. Joining in the Round
7. Removing Waste Yarn
8. Final Touches and Finishing
9. Benefits of Tubular Cast On
10. Pros and Cons
11. Conclusion

Tubular Cast On: A Guide to a Beautiful and Flexible Start

If you've ever marveled at the neat and elegant ribbing that gracefully rolls into itself at the edge of a knitting project, you may be admiring the work of a tubular cast on. The tubular cast on is a technique that creates a seamless, stretchy, and professional-looking edge, perfect for garments like the Saturday shrug. In this article, we will delve into the intricate process and guide you step-by-step on how to achieve this beautiful cast on. So, gather your knitting tools, and let's get started!

What is a Tubular Cast On?

A tubular cast on is a method used to create a seamless and flexible edge for knitting projects. Its unique construction involves a combination of knitting and purling stitches that mimic the appearance of a ribbed tube. The result is a visually pleasing edge that rolls naturally without any seams or gaps. This technique is commonly used for cuffs, collars, and hems of garments, where a professional and polished finish is desired.

Tools Required for Tubular Cast On

Before we dive into the process, let's gather the necessary tools for the tubular cast on. You will need:

1. Waste yarn: This is a contrasting yarn that will be used temporarily to create the provisional crochet edge.
2. Super wash yarn: It is recommended to use a high-quality super wash yarn for the tubular cast on.
3. Crochet hook or stitch fixer: You will need a crochet hook or a stitch fixer to create the provisional crochet stitches.
4. Knitting needles: You will require a pair of smaller-sized knitting needles and a pair of larger-sized knitting needles. The smaller-sized needles will be used for the cast on, while the larger-sized needles will be used for the main portion of the project.

Step-by-Step Guide to Tubular Cast On

Using Waste Yarn

To start the tubular cast on, follow these steps:

1. Calculate the number of stitches: Divide the total number of stitches needed by 2 and add 1. This will give you the number of stitches to start with.
2. Create a slip knot: Make a slip knot with the waste yarn. Place the tail end over the top and pull it through to form a loop.
3. Slip the stitch onto the crochet hook: Cross the yarn over the top and pull a loop through. Place it on the edge of the crochet hook.
4. Secure the stitch: Pull a small length of yarn through the loop to secure it.
5. Knit into the first stitch: Take your working yarn under the knitting needle and the crochet hook, then pull it through to create the first stitch.

Calculating the Number of Stitches

To calculate the number of stitches required:

1. Divide the total number of stitches needed by 2.
2. Add 1 to the result.

Creating the Slip Knot

To create a slip knot:

1. Cross the yarn over the top of the needle.
2. Pull a loop through the crossing, forming a slip knot.
3. Place the slip knot on the edge of your crochet hook or stitch fixer.

Knitting the First Row

To knit the first row:

1. Bring the yarn to the back of the work.
2. Insert the crochet hook or stitch fixer into the first stitch on the needle.
3. Bring the yarn over the top of the needle and pull it through, creating a new stitch.
4. Repeat this process for the remaining stitches until you have the desired number of stitches.

Turning and Purling

To turn your work and purl:

1. Turn your work to the wrong side.
2. Slip the first stitch with the yarn in front.
3. Purl the next stitch.
4. Repeat the slip and purl process for the remaining stitches until you reach the end of the row.

Continuing the Ribbing

To continue the ribbing:

1. Follow the same process of slipping and knitting for the knitted stitches.
2. Slip the purl stitches with the yarn in front.
3. Continue this pattern until you have completed the desired number of rows.

Transitioning to Larger Needles

Once you have completed the tubular cast on, you will need to transition to larger-sized needles for the main portion of your project. Simply transfer the stitches from the smaller-sized needles to the larger-sized needles in the knitting process.

Joining in the Round

To join your tubular cast on in the round:

1. Identify the first stitch on the smaller-sized needles, which should be a knit stitch.
2. Give yourself some extra length of yarn to work with, as you will need it to secure the first round.
3. Knit the first stitch on the smaller-sized needles and the first stitch on the larger-sized needles together.
4. Place a beginning-of-round marker to mark the start of your round.
5. Continue knitting the remaining stitches, ensuring there is no twisting of the project.

Removing Waste Yarn

Once you have successfully joined in the round, you can remove the waste yarn used for the provisional crochet stitches. Gently pull on the waste yarn in one direction, and it should unzip easily, leaving behind your beautifully formed tubular cast on.

Final Touches and Finishing

With your waste yarn removed, continue working on your project according to the pattern instructions. The tubular cast on provides a superb foundation for ribbing and adds a touch of elegance to your knitting project.

Benefits of Tubular Cast On

The tubular cast on offers several advantages:

1. Professional look: The seamless and flexible edge created by the tubular cast on gives your knitted projects a polished and finished appearance.
2. Easy to join in the round: The tubular cast on makes it easy to join your work in the round without any twists or misalignments.
3. Suitable for various projects: This technique is versatile and can be used for a wide range of knitting projects, from cuffs to hems and more.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Provides a seamless and professional-looking edge
• Creates a flexible and stretchy ribbed tube
• Easy to join in the round without twists or gaps

Cons:

• Requires additional time and attention compared to alternative cast on methods
• May need to practice the technique to achieve desired results

Conclusion

The tubular cast on is a valuable technique in a knitter's repertoire, offering a beautiful and flexible start to any project. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can confidently create seamless and professional-looking edges that enhance the overall appearance of your knitted garments. So, gather your materials, give it a try, and enjoy the satisfaction of a stunning tubular cast on for your next knitting project!

Highlights

• The tubular cast on creates a seamless and stretchy edge for knitting projects.
• It mimics the appearance of a ribbed tube, providing a professional and polished finish.
• This technique is perfect for cuffs, collars, and hems of garments.
• The tubular cast on requires waste yarn, a crochet hook or stitch fixer, and knitting needles.
• It involves a step-by-step process of calculating stitches, creating a slip knot, and knitting and purling rows.
• Transitioning to larger needles and joining in the round are crucial steps in the tubular cast on.
• Removing the waste yarn leaves behind a beautifully formed cast on.
• The tubular cast on offers benefits such as a professional look and ease of joining in the round.
• However, it requires extra time and practice to master.

FAQ

Q: Can I use any type of yarn for the tubular cast on?

A: It is recommended to use a high-quality super wash yarn for the tubular cast on as it provides better flexibility and durability.

Q: Will the waste yarn show in the finished project?

A: No, the waste yarn is only used temporarily to create the provisional crochet edge and will be removed once the cast on is complete.

Q: How do I secure the edge of the tubular cast on?

A: After completing the tubular cast on, you can tighten up the edge by using the tail end of the waste yarn to secure it.

Q: Can I use the tubular cast on for projects other than garments?

A: Yes, the tubular cast on is versatile and can be used for various knitting projects where a seamless and professional-looking edge is desired.

Q: Does the tubular cast on require special knitting skills?

A: While the tubular cast on may require some practice, it is achievable for knitters of all skill levels. Following the step-by-step instructions will help you master this technique.