US mr · UK mr · beginner
Magic Ring: step-by-step tutorial
A magic ring is an adjustable loop used to start crochet worked in the round with no hole in the centre. Wrap the yarn around two fingers, draw up a loop, work the first round of stitches into the ring, then pull the tail to close it tightly.
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How to magic ring, step by step
- Wrap the yarn twice around two fingers, tail hanging towards the palm.
- Insert the hook under both strands and pull up a loop of working yarn.
- Ch 1 to secure the loop; this chain does not count as a stitch.
- Work the first round of stitches, usually 6 sc, over both strands of the ring.
- Slide the ring off the fingers and pull the tail until the centre closes completely.
- Sl st into the first sc to join, or continue in a spiral with a stitch marker.
How do you crochet a magic ring?
To crochet a magic ring, wrap the yarn around two fingers, pull up a loop, chain one, work the first round into the ring, and pull the tail closed.
Double-wrapping the ring makes it more secure than a single wrap, which can loosen over time in stuffed toys.
What can I use instead of a magic ring?
The easiest alternative to a magic ring is chaining 2 and working the first round into the second chain from the hook. The centre stays small but not fully closed.
Another option is chaining 4 and joining with a slip stitch into a ring, which leaves a visible hole suited to granny squares and mandalas.
| Method | Centre hole | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Magic ring | Closed | Amigurumi, hats, coasters |
| Ch 2, work into 2nd ch | Very small | Amigurumi for beginners |
| Ch 4, sl st to join | Visible | Granny squares, doilies |
Why does my magic ring come undone?
A magic ring comes undone when the tail is not woven in securely. Weave the tail through the first round in several directions before trimming.
Using the double-wrap method gives two strands locking the centre, which makes slipping far less likely.
Patterns that use magic ring
Round amigurumi cat for beginners
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 3.5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 50 yd
Free pattern
Little round amigurumi bunny with long ears
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 3.5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 35 yd
Free pattern
Sturdy chunky crochet basket with handles
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Super bulky (#6)
- Hook size
- 8 mm hook
- Yardage
- 180 yd
Free pattern
Simple half double crochet baby beanie in the round
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 130 yd
Free pattern
One-round crochet heart in a magic ring
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 4 mm hook
- Yardage
- 4 yd
Free pattern
Ten-petal mini crochet daisy
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 4 mm hook
- Yardage
- 10 yd
Free pattern
Quick round crochet coaster in cotton
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 4.5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 18 yd
Free pattern
Chubby crochet frog amigurumi
- Skill level
- Easy
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 3.5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 55 yd
Free pattern
Frequently asked questions
Is a magic ring the same as a magic circle?
Yes. Magic ring, magic circle and magic loop all describe the same technique.
How many stitches go in a magic ring?
Most amigurumi patterns use 6 sc; hats and flat circles often use 8–12.
Can you do a magic ring with double crochet?
Yes. Ch 3 or ch 2 first, then work the dc into the ring as the pattern states.