How to cast on crochet borrows knitting terminology again, since crochet does not technically cast on. What you actually want is a foundation chain, the starting row every crochet project builds from. This mix-up is the most common terminology confusion for crocheters with a knitting background. This guide clears it up.
Direct Answer
Crochet does not cast on. Instead, you build a foundation chain by looping yarn over your hook and pulling through, repeated to your target length, which serves the same starting-row purpose as a knitting cast-on.
Frequently asked questions
Is a foundation chain the same as a cast on?
They serve the same starting-row purpose but use different mechanics. A foundation chain is built with a single hook and one loop, while a cast on involves two needles and a full row of live stitches.
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See the exact steps for starting a foundation chain from scratch.
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