Sliploop

Sliploop is a term used in handcrafts such as knitting and crochet to describe a loop formed by slipping a stitch onto a needle or hook, typically used to begin a project or to create a starting point for a row or round. The term is sometimes written as slip loop or slip knot, and can refer to the initial loop created to anchor work.

In knitting, a slip loop is commonly involved in several start methods, including slip-loop cast-on. This approach creates an initial loop on the needle that serves as the foundation for casting on stitches. The method is valued for its simplicity and flexibility, though the resulting edge can be less secure than some other cast-ons, depending on tension and technique. Knitters may choose alternatives such as long-tail or tubular cast-ons when greater stability is desired.

In crochet, a starting loop often derives from a slip knot placed onto the crochet hook to anchor the foundation chain. The loop is tightened to a preferred tension and then worked into, forming the first stitch. The slip loop in crochet serves as the entry point for the pattern and is typically detached or tightened as needed as work progresses.

Variations of the slip loop concept exist across crafts, with differences in how tightly to pull the loop and how many wraps or turns are used. The technique is widely described in craft manuals and online tutorials, and remains a basic tool for beginners to establish a controllable starting point.