Every crochet enthusiasts will be delighted to learn two simple and easy ways on how to work the Magic Ring, or also referred to as the Magic Loop, Magic Circle or Adjustable Ring.
These two methods that I will be sharing are far simpler than you might imagine and offers easy-to-remember approaches to your next crochet project. It is also ideal for beginner crocheters.
What’s the purpose of The Magic Ring you might ask? This technique serves as a foundation starting point before working on a crochet project in the round. It enables the creation of a tight, closed center for circular project. It presents an ideal solution for projects such as granny squares, amigurumi projects, or mandalas, just to name a few.
Granny Squares Starts with a Magic Ring
Granny squares are little humble crochet squares that start off with the crochet magic ring method. It is then joined with a slip stitch and then worked continuously in the round eventually creating four even corners.
This is when the magic ring evolves into a square that can be assembled in a variety of different ways. It can be built up into a symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangement, depending on what your pattern calls for.
Granny squares are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. One popular way to use granny squares is to join them together to create a larger project like this dress or this bandeau!
And if this sounds appealing, check out these free patterns below using the simple magic ring technique!
What are the benefits of using the Magic Ring?
Let’s explore some of the key benefits and advantages of the magic ring method:
1. Adjustable Center: One of the most significant advantages of the crochet magic circle method is its ability to create an adjustable center for your crochet projects in the round. The magic ring allows you to easily customize the size of the center hole by simply tightening or loosening the loop. This adaptability is particularly valuable when working on projects that require precise sizing or when you want to achieve a specific aesthetic effect.
2. Neat and Tight Finish: The magic circle technique enables you to create a tight and closed center for your work, ensuring a polished and professional finish. By adjusting the tension of the ring, you can effectively control the tightness of the stitches, resulting in a clean and even appearance. This is especially crucial for projects like amigurumi or other items where a secure and sturdy center is essential.
3. Versatility: The magic ring method opens up a world of creative possibilities, as it can be applied to a wide range of crochet projects. Whether you’re working on granny squares, mandalas, amigurumi, or any circular or oval-shaped design, the magic ring technique provides a versatile foundation that adapts to various patterns and styles.
4. Seamless Integration: One of the notable advantages of the magic ring method is its seamless integration into your crochet work. Once you complete the initial rounds using the magic ring, you can continue crocheting directly into the ring without any gaps or interruptions, resulting in a smooth and continuous fabric.
5. Enhanced Durability: Due to its closed and tight structure, the magic ring technique creates a sturdy foundation for your crochet projects. This enhanced durability ensures that your work withstands everyday use and retains its shape over time, making it especially beneficial for items that undergo frequent handling or require added strength.
Here are two techniques on how to make work up a magic ring or magic circle in crochet. I will show you how easy it is with a step-by-step photo tutorial showing each step as you go.
If you’d prefer to watch the Magic Ring How To video crochet tutorial instead, then skip these steps and jump right on down.
Related Post:
No more twisted chains in the round
How to Join Yarn ends
Chainless Foundation Stitch
Option 1 – The 3-Fingers Approach
The first option is what I call the 3 fingers approach. Unlike other tutorials where you would need to twist and turn your hand around the yarn. This step only requires the release of 2 fingers to work a knot.
First, take the yarn and wrap it around your 3 middle fingers from the outside in.
Then, remove your 2 bottom fingers while holding on to the loop with your thumb and index finger and insert your hook through the big loop and draw up a small loop through the ring.
Next, use your right hand to hold on to the ring and loop, while you prepare your left hand with the working yarn.
Return the loop to your left hand and work a slip knot
Chain 1, and work your first round of stitches be it single crochet stitches or a double crochet stitches. Any basic crochet stitches will work. You will insert your hook through the center of the ring to make your stitch.
You will be working around the tail as well.
Once you have completed the last stitch, slip stitch into the first stitch to join and pull the working end of the yarn tail to close up the circle.
This technique creates a center that can be adjusted to any size to ensure that there is no hole or gap in the center of your project.
Remember to always pull the tail end of the yarn tightly to close up the loop, and continue working into the round according to your crochet pattern instructions.
📺 2 Ways to Work the Magic Ring Video Tutorial
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Option 2: The 2 Chains Method
The second option in this crochet technique is another great way to working up a “version” of the magic ring or magic circle. While it may deviate from the traditional magic ring crochet technique, however, this method is the easy way out if all else fails. The best thing about this simple approach is that it requires nothing more than two chains as the crochet foundation.
Work a regular slip knot, but make sure that the loop is small and held tight
With your crochet hook, work 2 chains
Work the required number of stitches through that first chain or the 2nd chain from the hook. The tip here is to not pull your stitches too far away from the chain otherwise, it will stretch and not be able to close up again.
Slip stitch through the first stitch to close. Work your second round as usual.
This is a great alternative to the magic circle/ magic ring if you are having trouble with Option 1.
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With these step-by-step instructions, you will have successfully mastered the magic ring in no time. Let me know in the comments below which ways work best for you.
I hope this tutorial was helpful! Let me know if you have any other ideas you would like for me to share.
Happy Hooking
Shaz 🧶
