Difficulty: beginner Skill: cast-on basic 4 min read

What it is

A slip knot creates the first loop on the needle. It should tighten neatly around the needle without becoming so firm that the first stitch is difficult to work.

How Ruke patterns use it

Ruke patterns usually begin with a cast-on instruction before the work becomes a yoke, body, scarf, bag or other project shape. A slip knot is not the design feature, but it controls the first loop and therefore the tension at the start of the edge.

Examples

Cast-on instructions appear across the Ruke patterns, including sweater yokes, scarf edges, socks and accessories.
If the first loop is too tight, the first row or first round can feel different from the rest of the cast-on edge.

When to use it

Use it when a cast-on method starts with an adjustable first loop on the needle.

What to check

Check that the loop can slide on the needle and is not tightened so much that the first cast-on stitch becomes difficult to work.