Learning how to knit is an exciting process, but some patience is required. Getting your needles prepped  and ready for knitting is vital. In order to start knitting, you'll need to know how to cast on. Casting on is  much like making a slip knot. Since you just learned how to make a slip knot, you're already half way  there! Learn how to cast on in this easy knitting tutorial by M. E. Harrington. While there are several  ways to cast on, this tutorial provides you with the simplest way to start your knitting. This photo shows a slip knot made approximately 18 inches away from the end of the yarn.  $_{1.}$ Now that you know how to do the slip knot, you will be able to cast on your stitches and begin  knitting. The simplest method of casting on is to use your thumb. In order to do this, you must  leave a long tail of yarn to use in the casting on process. 12 By M. E. Harrington  Knitting Tutorial 2: How to Cast On