Two Basic Cast On Methods, Remedied

When I first started knitting, I used to panic about what kind of cast on method to use. Now I don't panic, but I have developed preferences and experience. Until recently, I would avoid 2 particular cast on methods: the backwards loop cast on, and the long-tail cast on.



The backward loop is called the "beginner" cast on because it's so simple, and when I first started knitting everyone told me to use this method. My problem was that by the time I knitted to the end of the first row, there was huge gap of slack between stitches at the first cast on stitch (the slipknot). So I cast on one more stitch than needed, then drop the skipknot at the end. Problem solved!



My problem with the long-tail cast on is that I either overestimate the tail length and waste too much yarn, or I underestimate and have to start the whole cast on edge over again (usually multiple times). But there's a solution to this!

I was catching up on some knitting podcasts and heard about a brilliant way to fix this problem: use both ends of the ball of yarn. I haven't found a video demonstrating this, or even much discussion online, so here's the basic theory:

1. Hold both ends as one and make a slip knot. This will be the first 2 stitches of your cast on edge.

2. Position the yarn as you normally would for long-tail cast on, with one strand around the thumb and one around the index finger. You'll want to decide whether you'll knit your item from the "inside" or "outside" yarn and put that strand around the index finger.

3. Cast on infinite stitches!

4. Snip the other strand, leaving a tail long enough to weave in.

At least I don't have to avoid these cast-on methods anymore!

Sew Good to Me

I've been on a sewing kick lately. I can't stop churning out bags and tea wallets and blankets and more. Here are a few inspiring finds from etsyland:



1. Modern Quilt by quiltedbykaren
2. Hanging Fabric Storage Bin by sewingmomma
3. Handbag/Wristlet by honeyddesigns
4. SnackSleeve by agreensleeve
5. Organic cotton deer mob napkins by ohlittlerabbit
6. Round and Round Pillow Cover by kanom
7. Recycled Sail Throw Pillow by reiter8
8. Linen Patchwork Coffee Press Cozy by SometimesCrafter
9. Modern Baby Quilt by BlueElephantStitch

Works in Progress

Aside from the usual distraction, there really has been quite a lot of work going on in the Bumblebirch studio.

The Summer line of stitch markers is ready! All 8 new colors of Droplets and Petite Droplets will be listed in the shop soon!

In addition to new stitch markers, I'm pleased to announce a new colorway:

Peony

This colorway is inspired by the flowers we had at our wedding: cream and blush pink. It's just in time to celebrate our 2nd anniversary on May 25th! Peony is available in any of the Bumblebirch bases.

Me with my bridesmaid and bouquet-maker Caela

Happy May, everyone!

Sewn Bind Off

I can't believe I haven't used this stretchy bind off before! I've knit so many projects which would benefit from the sewn bind off, so I'll have to make it my standard sock bind off from now on.

Rainy Days

I don't know about your city, but it's been rainy around here!



1. Miniature Raindrop by ashleyg
2. Bloom and Grow Archival Print by swallowfield
3. Rain Bear Print by daphnecellophane
4. Ca Va Screen Printed Card by twoguitars
5. Feeding Birds Print by matteart
6. Umbrella Charm Necklace by PetitSimplicity
7. Friends Fine Art Print by michelemaule
8. PDX Raindrop Magnet by bishopart
9. Silver Cloud Ear Posts by FreshyFig

Friday Finds....Office Organization

Bumblebirch was recently uprooted to a new home--a better, drier, warmer, safer home--and getting my office space reorganized has been a challenge! Here's a little inspiration:



1. Bohemian Poppies Fabric Bins by sewingmomma
2. Divine Aluminum GoodForm Chair by threesidewaysglances
3. Honeycomb Modern Wall Clock by pilotdesign
4. Mushroom Madness Paperclips/Bookmarkers by yvettelim
5. Distressed Grey Hex Shelf by JungleSupply
6. Vinyl Wall Sticker Decal - Wall Calendar by SimpleShapes
7. writing desk by uncommon
8. birch trees book file by babaleu
9. Custom Definition Magnets by ksickles