Long-Tail Cast-On
Long-tail cast-on is the most common cast-on method, using a long tail of yarn to create stitches that give an elastic, neat edge for most projects.
Explanation
Long-tail cast-on is the most widely used cast-on method in knitting. You use a long tail of yarn together with the working yarn, forming stitches by guiding the needle between your thumb and index finger. The method produces an elastic, even, and neat edge that withstands stretching well, suiting nearly any project from ribbing to stockinette. The most common mistake is misjudging the tail length and running out of yarn before all stitches are cast on; a good rule of thumb is roughly three times the finished width in tail length.