In crochet, there are a multitude of techniques for working in the round. Some call for making a short chain and connecting in the round while others suggest simply sewing up your work to be in the round. Of all these techniques (and more), one of my absolute favorites is the Magic Ring!
The Magic Ring (also abbreviated to MR) technique is one of my most used techniques as of late. It's a great way to create a project for in-the-round work and is super easy to close up and weave the ends.
Check out the reel below or skip to the photo tutorial!
Looking for a project? Check out my Free Fancy Puff Coaster pattern for an introduction to the magic ring!
Step 1: Drape the yarn over your hand
Holding your hand out flat in front of you, palm facing you, drape the yarn over your hand, with the tail end facing you and the working end farthest from you.
Step 2: Cross the working yarn with your tail yarn
Wrapping your working yarn behind your hand and across the front of your palm, cross the two strands, with your working yarn on top of the tail yarn.
Step 3: Insert your hook under the tail and over the working end
Just above the point where they cross, insert your hook under the tail strand but over the working strand, keeping your hook pointed downwards towards the working strand.
Step 4: Pull up a loop of your working yarn
Drag the working strand of your yarn under the tail end and pull up a loop.
Step 5: Chain 1 to secure your magic loop
Chain 1 with your working yarn as normal to secure the magic loop. In patterns, this will likely count as one of the stitches needed to begin your row.
Step 6: Pull the tail to close
After your magic ring has been made and all stitches of your first round have been done inside your magic ring, pull the tail end to close your magic ring. Pull tight to really close that hole in the center.
Finishing Up
Finish off round one with a slip stitch or other technique as stated in your pattern!
This technique is used in so many different patterns and has so many ways of doing it differently. What is another alternative that you know of? I'd love to hear of it in the comments below!
'Til next time!
