Cat Bordhi demonstrates Judy Becker's Magic Cast-On

I think this is the best provisional cast-on on the planet. It was invented by the ingenious Judy Becker of Portland, Oregon, and first released to the world by Knitty.com. You'll find it used throughout my latest book, NEW PATHWAYS FOR SOCK KNITTERS, for everything from toe-up socks to cobblestone cuffs. I love it!

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• Cat
• Bordhi
• Judy's
• Magic
• Cast-On
• Becker
• sock
• knit
• toe
• cuff
• tubular
• provisional
• NEW
• PATHWAYS

[dimorris]

Thanks, Cat, for posting this. If you spend any time knitting socks like I do, you will find that many patterns are written toe-up and mention this cast-on. It is just another trick to add to my repertoire and I always want to learn new things.

[catbordhi]

@dimorris Actually I have written three best-selling books on sock knitting, and the most recent one is entirely toe-up socks, the previous one about two thirds toe-up socks, and the first one has 2 toe-up socks. Just google my name and you will find them, if you are interested.

[pheonixphire]

is it possible to do this cast on on one circular needle?

[catbordhi]

@pheonixphire Yes - just use both ends of the same long needle.

[mydio]

When I started watching this video I was sort of WTF to how you were desribing it, then I tried to start a project away from the internet and realised your strange descriptions had stuck in my head so I was able to do this cast on without looking at a guide.

I've recently discovered these types of cast ons and this one is quite possibly my favourite. Thanks for an excellent video.

[catbordhi]

@mydio I really appreciate your description of how the way I described the JMCO stuck in your head. My story-filled approach doesn't suit everybody, but about 95% of knitters love it and it works for them, as it has for you. Others do better with a very straight-forward approach.

[penelopekc]

@knittahoochee I wish you had phrased your comment more tactfully. There is no need to be insulting, especially when you don't understand the presentation. We knitters are a funny lot, and most of us are tolerant, and kind and try to be persuasive. It gets us further than spending the time to post thoughtless comments.

[justducky48]

Cat, Thank you for the great video! I love the bird, clock and udders! I will remember that for sure!

[hiztorybuff]

Thank you for making mystifying written instructions into something very easy to do. I love your storytelling method because it really helps me remember how to do it without needing the video at my fingertips. Thank you for your repeats, your clear speech, and using large needles and colorful yarn. It helps to see what you are doing. Many, many thanks!

[statesidenme]

Thank you for doing this video. I watch your video each time I need to cast on for toe up socks. Presenting it as a story with voices really helps me follow the technique and it keeps it fun and lighthearted. Fun and lighthearted are great especially when you are trying to fiddle around with such small needles like sock needles. For those that dislike this method of teaching, why leave such rude comments just go watch something more in line with the way you learn.

[123rocked]

@catbordhi Can you explain it to me how to use this cast on in only one circular needle? does it replace the magic loop? thank you

[sld0035]

Haha, I love the crazy voices and stories. This is exactly how I remember things and your video was far from boring. A fellow raveler posted the link to this an I am always looking for new techniques. Looking forward to trying this method next time I need a provisional cast on.

[jayanncox]

I love the stories! You are the good kind of crazy, Cat!

[NameThatSims2Tune]

Any thoughts on modifying this cast-on for double knitting?

I'm thinking of working a double knit hat from the top down, and I'm wondering if it's possible to use this cast-on to start it. (This is my go-to cast-on for top-down hats, or anything that needs to join at one end.)

Right now my plan is to cast-on each color separately, then redistribute the stitches onto one needle. But is there a way to do this all in one step? Would appreciate any input, thank you.

[gerriecl]

I wondered why you called it a "provisional cast on". I love this method and have used it for "normal" toe-up socks. But then I wanted to try doing a short-row toe, because I hate the "triangle look", and want to try for a "round" toe. After researching what a provisional cast-on is, I used this method for exactly that, and successfully did a short-row toe:) I love that I can go back and watch it whenever I need to!

[TheDarkmoonchyld]

is there anyway to do this cast on with straight needles? other than treading yarn through the "bottom needle"? LOVE THE VIDEO BTW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i was casting on with my straights in seconds.....awesome. 

[wellsmug]

Thank you so much Cat - it's great to see it in action, just makes it all much more accessible. I don't know what all the fuss is about your "strange descriptions" - it was light-hearted and fun with memory aids - what's not to like - some people need to lighten up and enjoy life more! You are a star, thank you. Melissa