This method for making the stitches you need so that you can start knitting, i.e. cable cast on, uses two needles and the technique is very similar to knitting.  If you are starting from scratch and can't get the hang of this cast on method at first, you might find the 1-needle cast on easier.

 

Buy Knit Knack Knitting Tutorial on CD ROM for just £11.99 to learn how to knit and video demonstration of this technique.