Since the new issues of Knitty is out, I can now publish the Magic Cast-On here on PI.
If you click on Freebies on the menu above, you will find Judy’s Magic Cast-On for Toe-Up Socks. That page was there before. But if you follow that link, you will see that the page has been updated with a link to a new write-up that is printable (scroll to the bottom). A PDF version is also available.
Republishing has given me a chance to correct a couple of errors in the Kitty version and to get rid of the little knot.
Enjoy!
P.S. Did you see that Widdershins, one of the toe-up sock patterns in the new Knitty, uses my cast-on? 
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That cast-on is so cool. I’m sending you a big thank you for posting the updated version.
1Remark from KarenK — Sunday, 7/9/2006 @ 6:43 pm PDT
You’re welcome, KarenK.
2Remark from Judy — Sunday, 7/9/2006 @ 8:51 pm PDT
I was trying to comment yesterday but kept getting taken to the FBI Home Page???
3Your Magic Cast on is truly magic and thank you so much for writing it up so clearly!
On the bottom of Page 3 on “Row 2: K all stitches on both needles (no decreases).” I think you mean no INCREASES as we have just cast on.
Just thought I would let you know as some newbies might find it confusing!! thanks again for a great tutorial.
Remark from Susanne — Tuesday, 7/11/2006 @ 11:44 am PDT
I love that cast on! I just started Widdershins. It’s a little awkward on DPN’s, though. I had to start over a few times before getting the hang of it, but I like it better than going cuff-down. I just ordered teeny tiny circs today! And I’m going to use your cast on for the iPod cozy I keep putting off starting.
4Remark from Melissa — Wednesday, 7/12/2006 @ 7:15 pm PDT
Hi, Melissa. Can’t wait to see Widdershins and your iPod cozy! I’ve also used the magic cast-on for bags, hats and pin-wheels — anything that starts in the middle and goes around and around.
It is a little awkward on DPNs, I agree. Once you get past the first couple of rounds it’s easier. But in my opinion the figure-8 and Turkish cast-ons are just as awkward. Those sticks just don’t want to bend! I think that’s why a lot of knitters choose the provisional cast-on / short-row toe when going toe-up on DPNs — the circle is bigger!
5Remark from Judy — Thursday, 7/13/2006 @ 7:41 am PDT
I have posted a photo of the iPod cozy on my blog. Still working on the socks, though. I’ve got too many WIPs!
6Remark from Melissa — Sunday, 7/16/2006 @ 1:18 pm PDT