How to cast off crochet is a question that borrows knitting terminology, since crochet does not have a true cast off the way knitting does. What you actually want is called fastening off, the crochet equivalent that locks your final stitch closed. This terminology mix-up is common among crocheters who learned knitting first. This guide clears up the terminology and gives the real steps.
Direct Answer
Crochet does not cast off. Instead, you fasten off by cutting the yarn and pulling the tail through your final loop to lock it closed, since crochet only ever has one active loop rather than an entire row of live stitches to close off at once.
How to Fasten Off
- Complete your final stitch, leaving one loop on the hook.
- Cut the yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail.
- Pull the tail through the remaining loop and pull snug.
- Weave in the tail with a yarn needle.
Frequently asked questions
Is casting off the same as fastening off?
Not technically. Casting off is knitting terminology for closing a full row of live stitches, while crochet’s fasten off simply locks the single active loop. The end result is similar, a securely finished edge, but the underlying technique is different.
Want more detail on finishing your piece?
Fastening off is only half the job, weaving in the tail matters just as much.
See the full finishing guide
