Judy's Magic Cast On Double Pointed Needles
Knitting can be a relaxing and rewarding hobby, but it can also be a challenge, especially when it comes to casting on. One popular casting on method is Judy's Magic Cast On, which is perfect for projects that require a seamless start, like socks and hats. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about using Judy's Magic Cast On with double pointed needles.
What is Judy's Magic Cast On?
Judy's Magic Cast On is a technique used to create a seamless, invisible cast-on edge for double pointed needles. It was developed by Judy Becker, a knitting teacher and designer, and has become a popular method for starting socks and other projects that require a closed loop.
Why Use Double Pointed Needles?
Double pointed needles (DPNs) are a great choice for projects that require working in the round, like socks and hats. They allow you to work on a small circumference without having to switch to circular needles or use the magic loop technique. DPNs come in sets of four or five needles, and you use three or four of them to hold your stitches while you work with the remaining needle.
How to Do Judy's Magic Cast On with Double Pointed Needles
Before you begin, make sure you have your DPNs and yarn ready. Here's how to do Judy's Magic Cast On:
- Make a slip knot and place it on one of your needles.
- Hold the needle with the slip knot in your left hand and use a second needle to knit into the slip knot from the front, as if you're knitting a regular knit stitch.
- Take the same needle and knit into the slip knot again, this time from the back.
- Slide the stitches to the other end of the needle so they are now on the right-hand side.
- Use a third needle to knit into the first stitch on the left-hand side of the needle, but don't slide the stitch off the needle.
- Knit into the first stitch on the right-hand side of the needle, and slide both stitches off the needle.
- Repeat steps 5-6 until you have the desired number of stitches on your needles.
Once you have completed your cast on, you will be ready to begin working in the round using your DPNs.
Tips for Using Judy's Magic Cast On with Double Pointed Needles
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of using Judy's Magic Cast On with double pointed needles:
- Make sure your tension is consistent throughout the cast on process to avoid gaps or uneven stitches.
- Use a marker to indicate the beginning of your round so you don't lose track of where you are in your project.
- Practice on scrap yarn before starting your project to get comfortable with the technique.
Conclusion
Judy's Magic Cast On with double pointed needles is a great way to start projects that require a seamless, closed loop. With a little practice, you can master this technique and create beautiful, professional-looking projects. So grab your DPNs and yarn, and get ready to start knitting!