Turkish Cast-on

The Turkish Cast-on is a must-know knitting technique for anyone who enjoys working from the tip up. Whether you’re knitting toe-up socks, top-down mittens, or seamless bags, this method creates an invisible and smooth start, making it a favourite among knitters who value a polished finish.

Unlike some cast-on techniques that require complex manoeuvres or additional tools, the Turkish Cast-on is beautifully simple. Using just a pair of circular needles and yarn, you can create a closed, seamless edge with minimal effort. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from executing the technique step-by-step to troubleshooting common mistakes.

What is the Turkish Cast-On?

The Turkish Cast-on is a double-sided cast-on method that allows you to start knitting seamlessly in the round. It is especially popular for toe-up socks, as it forms a closed toe without needing to graft or sew anything together. The technique involves wrapping yarn around two needle tips and then knitting into those loops to create the first round of stitches.

How Does It Compare to Other Cast-On Methods?

• Judy’s Magic Cast-On: Another seamless cast-on, but slightly more complex as it involves manipulating loops between two strands of yarn.
• Figure-8 Cast-On: Similar in appearance but more prone to loose stitches and gaps.

Why Use the Turkish Cast-On?

If you haven’t tried the Turkish Cast-on yet, here are a few reasons why you should:

• Invisible and seamless – No ridge or seam at the toe.
• Beginner-friendly – Simple to learn and execute.
• Works for various projects – Ideal for socks, gloves, bags, and even top-down hats.
• Minimal setup required – No need for extra tools like waste yarn or additional needles.

Materials Needed

To master the Turkish Cast-on, you’ll need:

• Circular knitting needles (ideally with a long cable for the magic loop method)
• Yarn (smooth, non-splitty yarn is best for learning)
• Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends once finished)
• Scissors

Step-by-Step Turkish Cast-On Tutorial

Step 1: Positioning the Yarn and Needles

Hold your circular needles together with the tips pointing to the right. Make a slip knot on the bottom needle (this is optional, as the stitches will hold themselves in place).

Step 2: Wrapping the Yarn

Wrap the working yarn around both needle tips clockwise, making the desired number of loops. Each wrap creates one stitch on each needle, so if you need 10 stitches per side, wrap the yarn around the needles 10 times.

Step 3: Creating the First Row of Stitches

Carefully slide the bottom needle out so that the loops sit on the cable. Knit across the loops on the top needle. This locks the stitches into place.

Step 4: Knitting the Second Needle

Rotate your work so that the loops now sit on the top needle. Insert the empty needle into the first loop and knit across as you did in Step 3. You now have a seamless, closed edge.

Step 5: Splitting Stitches for Magic Loop (If Needed)

If you are using the magic loop method, divide your stitches evenly and pull the cable through to separate them, forming two distinct needle sections.

Need a visual? Check out this video tutorial from Purl Together.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

1. Twisted Stitches

• Ensure that the yarn wraps neatly around both needles without crossing.
• Double-check stitch orientation before knitting the first row.

2. Loose Loops at the Cast-On Edge

• Keep even tension when wrapping the yarn.
• Pull the first few stitches snug as you knit them to secure the edge.

3. Gaps Between Stitches

• Use a firm tension on the first round.
• If gaps persist, try wrapping the yarn one extra time and knitting two stitches together on the first round.

Advanced Tips for a Perfect Turkish Cast-On

• Use a slightly smaller needle for the cast-on round, then switch to your usual size to maintain an even tension.
• If your stitches are too tight, use a looser wrapping technique or switch to a more flexible cable.
• Experiment with different yarn weights to see how the cast-on behaves in various projects.

Projects That Benefit from the Turkish Cast-On

The Turkish Cast-on is perfect for:

• Toe-up socks – Creates a smooth and seamless toe section.
• Mittens and gloves – Ideal for starting the fingertips without seaming.
• Seamless bags – No need for side seams, making the finish extra neat.
• Stuffed toys – Allows for a rounded, closed start.

Alternative Cast-On Techniques to Consider

While the Turkish Cast-on is fantastic, other methods may work better depending on your needs:

• Judy’s Magic Cast-On – Provides a more structured beginning for socks.
• Figure-8 Cast-On – Simple but prone to looseness.

Conclusion

The Turkish Cast-on is an essential technique for any knitter looking to create seamless, professional-looking projects. Whether you’re crafting toe-up socks or experimenting with new patterns, this easy-to-master cast-on ensures a smooth, gap-free start every time. Give it a try, and you’ll soon see why it’s a favourite among knitters!

Happy knitting!

FAQs

1. What is the best needle type for the Turkish Cast-On?

Circular needles with a flexible cable work best, especially for the magic loop method.

2. Can I use this cast-on for flat knitting?

No, the Turkish Cast-on is specifically designed for circular knitting and seamless projects in the round.

3. How do I ensure my stitches are even?

Maintain consistent tension while wrapping the yarn and avoid pulling too tightly on the first round.

4. How does this method compare to Judy’s Magic Cast-On?

Both methods are seamless, but Judy’s Magic Cast-On requires a more complex yarn manipulation.

5. Can beginners learn this technique easily?

Absolutely! The Turkish Cast-on is one of the easiest seamless cast-ons to learn, making it a great choice for new knitters.