A crochet project that is worked in the round can be started in either of two ways. First, you can work in a series of chains and join them in the round. Second, you can create a Magic Circle (sometimes called a Magic Loop or an Adjustable Ring). There are benefits to each method. Here is all you need to know about them!
Joining in the Round
The Process
To join in the round, first work a series of chains, join those chains in a loop with a slip stitch join to the first chain. Then work your first round of stitches around the loop.
How to do it
- Work your starting chain stitches.
- Insert hook in first chain and join in a loop with a slip stitch.
Continue working into the center of the chain loop or in each chain around.
Why You'll love it
- This is the simplest way to begin working in the round, and the way many of us learn!
- If working in the round, but not in a circle, you will need to begin with a starting chain rather than a Magic Circle.
Magic Circle
The Process
To make the Magic Circle, you will create a loop with yarn, work your first round of stitches into the center of that loop, and then pull on the tail of that loop to tighten.
How to do it
- Wrap yarn around your fingers, and pinch where yarns overlap with your free hand.
- Insert hook through the center of the loop, catch the strand of yarn attached to the ball (making sure not to catch the short tail), and pull through the center of the loop.
- Yarn over, and pull through the loop on the hook (creating a chain).
- Insert hook into the center of the loop to begin your first round of stitches.
- Continue working stitches into the center of the loop.
- Pull the short tail of the loop to tighten the Magic Circle.
Why you'll love it
- This is the best way to begin creating a crochet circle if you want to eliminate any kind of hole at the beginning (just pull that yarn tight to draw the circle closed!).
- It is easier to work a greater number of starting stitches in the first round with this method.
