German Twisted Cast-On
Also called the "old Norwegian" cast-on. A close cousin of the long-tail with one extra twist per stitch — produces a noticeably stretchier edge ideal for toe-up socks, sock cuffs, and any cast-on that needs to flex.
Recommended A printable technique cheat-sheet for your knitting bag.
How it differs
Identical to long-tail until the needle reaches the thumb loop. Instead of going up under the front of the thumb loop, go down through it from above, then up through the index loop. The extra twist around the thumb is what produces the additional stretch.
When to use
Toe-up sock cuffs (matches the bind-off in elasticity), 1×1 rib brims on hats that need to slip over a hairband, and edges of brioche cowls.
In partnership Tools and supplies that make this technique easier.
Tips
- Slightly slower than long-tail at first; the muscle memory comes after about 50 stitches.
- Pair with a stretchy bind-off (Jeny's Surprisingly Stretchy or sewn bind-off) at the other end.