So you want to crochet the magic loop. Or is it magic circle? Wait, magic ring? Adjustable ring?!
Don’t fret my friend. All of these terms refer to the same method, and today I’m going to teach you what it is, when to use it, and a super simple trick to tighten it neatly every time.
What is it?
The magic loop is also commonly referred to as the magic ring, magic circle, adjustable ring, and adjustable loop. It just depends on who you ask, the pattern you’re reading, or what your sweet Nana taught you.
Simply put, the magic loop is a crochet technique used to create a tightly closed circle when crocheting in the round. Your beginning stitches are worked into a loop that is then tightened to create a closed circle.
The magic loop is commonly used to crochet top down hats, starting granny squares, amigurumi, motifs, and other projects worked in the round. It’s a great way to get a nice snug center, and eliminates the hole often left when using a foundation ring.
Types of magic loop in crochet
As with any method, there are multiple ways to create the magic loop. I will be teaching you the double loop method.
I promise it’s not any more difficult than the single loop, once you understand how to tighten it. Don’t worry, I’ll teach you that as well!
I prefer the double loop method because it makes weaving in your ends much quicker. Simply weave your yarn back in the opposite direction it came from (being careful to skip a stitch) for one full round, and cut. I have yet to have a center come undone with this method!
When to use the magic loop
So, when should you use the magic loop?
Honestly, it’s totally up to you! I’m not here to tell you to use this every time you start a project in the round. (And don’t let anyone else tell you that either!) If you’re not ready to or interested in learning the technique, there are workarounds.
However, I recommend using it any time you want to eliminate the hole left from a foundation ring.
Pattern designers typically have a preference in their instructions, and I think it’s great practice to begin however they instruct you. That’s how I learned there even was such a thing as a magic loop.
That being said, I use this method exclusively when starting top down hats, even when the pattern doesn’t call for it. The caveat to that is when you’re making something that requires an open crown, like a messy bun beanie. I use this technique in my Brice Beanie pattern.
I personally prefer the look, and also find it easier than working into a foundation loop. But again, (say it with me now) there’s no wrong way! This is your creation. You do it whichever way makes your heart happy.
How to crochet the magic loop
Ok, now what you’re really here for. How do you actually crochet the magic loop? I’ve heard so many people say it’s too difficult, and most of the time, they’re just overthinking it.
A lot of people come to this technique after they’ve already mastered a good bit of the basics. It can be frustrating to be “new” at something again. Keep in mind that like anything else…it takes practice.
That being said, I fully admit I said my fair share of “no no words” when I first tried this. I totally get it!
The video below will walk you through step by step. The first example is nice and slow, and then shown again a little more quickly. The end of the video shows you a headache free, simple trick to tightening your loop.
Pro tip: Check your stitch count before pulling the loop tight. It can be a real pain in the rear to loosen the loop to add more stitches (which is exactly what you want)!
So, do you love it? Still have questions? Let me know in the comments below!