I took a learn to knit class over 2 weekends. It was really cheap - like $20 for 4 hours at a local knitting supply shop. Most of the yarn stores up here have classes that are relatively inexpensive and it's a good way to learn.

In my first class we learned to cast on and knit, then we had a week to knit scarf, then in the second class we learned to cast off and make a fringe for the scarf.

The best way I can describe casting on is, once you have the initial slip knot on your needle, put the other needle through it. Wrap the yarn, over the needle, like in a knit stich, with the tip of your needle, pull the yarn through the stitch on the other needle. This is tricky and I sometimes have to use my finger to help hold it in place, then slide the new loop over the needle. I'm still really slow at it.

Good luck, and maybe try taking a course.

--splitimage