Getting Started!
In order to knit something, you first have to create the correct number of sts that you need to make your item. This is called casting on. There are many ways to do this, each has its own characteristic. Whether it be firm, stretchy, loose or decorative. This will depend on what you are making and what stitch pattern you are doing. Will the cast on edge be for starting a rib, Will you need to pick up stitches from the cast on edge to make an extra decorative edge. Does the edge need to be really strong alongside a stitch pattern that has no give. All these things need to be considered when you choose which type of cast on you are going to use.
See the list on the right for a selection of different cast on methods with pictures.