Cable Stitches Cast
Cable stitches cast can perfectly replace classic one, moreover, it has a great plus - start work from the short end. You can make such cast either with 2, or 1 knitting needle and crochet hook. The edge isn't very elastic, you can use it for increasing sts, or cuts.
Slip the ring from fingers very carefully, holding the place of yarns crossing with thumb, catch working yarn with fingers, pull it trhough the ring. Put the slip knot on the needle and pull the working yarn. In such a way, you tighten the st on the knitting needle. Take this needle in your left hand.
Make the following 4 actions until you get the needed quantity of sts:
Catch the yarn.
Put it on the needle. Pull the working yarn, but not very tight. It's better to insert the crochet hook at first and then tighten the yarn.
Cast on the needed quantity of sts. While making the 1st row you should also knit the 1st st. as the working yarn is behind the 2nd st after the end of cast.