Crochet in the Round Magic Ring

Learn about the crochet magic ring technique. This is the most common way to start crochet projects that are made in the round.

It’s one of those crochet techniques that all beginners should learn. No matter what size hook you are using, or the weight of yarn your project calls for, it works wonderfully.

What is crochet in the round?

Crocheting in the round is a term used when making a crochet project or pattern that is round and circular. The most common crochet in the round creations would probably be hats and beanies.

Amigurumi projects also often use this technique. Most beginner patterns can be made with the stitches that we have learned already. Use this photo tutorial, with step-by-step instructions, to better understand the basics of crochet in the round.

When is a magic ring used?

A magic ring is the best way to start any project that is going to be completed in the round. It is also sometimes referred to as a magic loop. This adjustable ring makes it really easy to close up the hole in the center of the ring tightly, once you have completed your project.

When beginning your circular crochet project, leave yourself a yarn tail of 4-5 in. Once you are ready to weave in your yarn ends, run the tail end of the yarn through the first round of stitches, in a loop. Pull it snuggly, leaving you with a tightly closed center.

Let’s begin a crochet in the round project, using the magic ring crochet technique.

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Supplies:

• 5mm crochet hook
• Yarn needle
• Stitch marker
• Worsted weight yarn
• Scissors

Crochet abbreviations:

• CH – Chain
• SL ST – Slip stitch
• ST – Stitch
• SC – Single crochet stitch
• HDC – Half double crochet stitch
• DC – Double crochet stitch
• INC – Increase

How to crochet a magic ring:

Begin with a chain of five stitches.

Insert hook through the first stitch, yarn over, and pull the yarn through the stitch and the first loop of yarn on the hook {this is called a slip stitch}.

Here we have created a circle to start (called a magic ring).

Chain two. This starting chain creates the height that we need for our double crochet stitches.

Now let’s double crochet ten times into the center of the circle. This can be a bit tricky at first, if your stitches overlap. Be sure to place each stitch beside the last. I find that placing my middle finger at the back of the hole is a great way to more easily guide the crochet hook through the small opening.

Here we have ten double crochet stitches in the round. We need to join the beginning {where we chained two} and the end {our last double crochet} of this round together. 

Poke the hook into the space that was created by the chain stitches and yarn over.

Pull through the stitch and the loop on the hook {slip stitch}.

You will end with one loop on your hook. That round is finished.

For the second round, let’s talk about an increase stitch {to make the circle bigger}.

Chain two.

An increase stitch is simply where two stitches have been placed into one stitch. In this photo we have two double crochet stitches in one stitch {an increase}.

Each pattern may have a different number of stitches and increases. 

A great beginner crochet in the round project can be made with this Simple Slipper Pattern or easy Slouchie Beanie Pattern.

Tips and Tricks:

• When choosing crochet patterns, always check the skill level needed, to be sure it’s a good fit for you.
• Crochet hook size can make a real difference in the size of your finished crochet items. If you tend to crochet quite tightly, it may be beneficial to go up a size. If your stitches tend to be loose, go down a size.
• Only have worsted weight yarn, but the pattern calls for bulky yarn? No problem! Just use two strands, held together.
• For easy washing, choose a cotton yarn.

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