Which cast on method should I use?

[kgroch]

I am trying my hand at making a lace scarf for the
first time. I've been using the long tail cast on and
was wondering what cast on method gives you
the best result when knitting lace?

[of troy]

which methods of cast on's do you know?

Long tail is not the best cast on for lace.--its stretchy but not very, very stretchy.

a provisional cast on is a good choice, and then end with a knit on lace edge, (and pick up cast on edge for a matching lace edge.

you can also knit a lace edge, and pick up stitches (a reverse process!)

A LOOSE (use larger needle, and think about working loosely!) knit edge is pretty traditional for lace..

it really depends on the scarf and the first few rows of knitting--does the scarf have an edging (garter or sead or something?

or does it start on R1?

What cast on does the designer (or editor) make?

Are you designing it for your self? Swatch!

[kgroch]

The pattern is the Lace Ribbon Scarf in Knitty : Spring 2008.

[suzeeq]

The LT caston ought to be fine for that pattern, it's not so lacy. You could also try the cable CO, make sure it's loose by using a larger needle. Also, the first row of it goes right into the pattern, but the end is a couple rows of knit; it may look more balanced if you knit a couple rows to begin it.