Crochet magic circle tutorial with video

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I first heard about the crochet magic circle when I learned how to crochet Amigurumi a few years ago. Ever since, this is my favorite technique to start round crochet projects or any projects that start with a circle, like doilies, granny squares, hats, and so on.

The fact that you need to crochet Amigurumi with tight stitches, requires that the starting circle is tightly closed as well, that way the stuffing won’t show through.

So, the magic circle is the perfect solution for Amigurumi or any other projects. It just makes it look nice and neat.

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What is a crochet magic circle?

The magic circle technique, also known as the magic ring, is a way to start your round crochet projects with a loop with no slip knot. To start, we create a simple loop (see pictures), leave a longer tail and place the first round of stitches inside that loop.

Once you have all the stitches you need in that loop, you will pull the tail tight to close it. Then… voilà, the magic is done.  For your next round crochet project, give it a try.

Why is my magic circle curling?

The short answer it that you don’t have the right amount of stitches in it. Another reason is that it depends on the type of project you are working on and the type of stitch you are using.

For the majority of projects, you will use single crochet, double crochet or half double crochet stitches. For Amigurumi, for example, which is a technique you use for stuffed animals and dolls, you need to shape it as you go.

In that case, it is intentional that it curves, so you need to start your magic circle with less stitches in it. Usually, for that purpose, you place 6 to 8 stitches in the ring.

And that number of stitches is what makes it curl. If you are making a doily, for example, you want it to be flat, so you need to start your first round with more stitches in it, it all depends on the stitch type and the project you are working on.

What’s the alternative to a crochet magic circle?

You can start your crochet projects with chains only instead of a magic circle. If you are starting a project with double crochet, for example, crochet 4 chains, then crochet the double crochet stitches in the 4th chain from the hook.

Another alternative is to crochet 3 or 4 chains, then join both ends of the chain with a slip stitch, forming a ring. Then go ahead and crochet your stitches inside that ring.

But remember, a magic circle is only another technique you can use for your creations. I like it and I use it even when doing granny squares, but it’s totally a matter of preference and it’s up to you.

Tutorial instructions

• For this tutorial, you will need a crochet hook and yarn. 
• The instructions are written using US terminology.
• If you are working on someone else’s pattern, even if the instructions don’t tell you to do a magic circle, you can still do it, it won’t change the final result of your project.
• For the purpose of this photo tutorial, I am placing the yarn and hook on a flat surface so you can visualize it better, but make sure when you start step 1 below you hold the two strands of yarn with your fingers to form the circle.
• If you are a visual learner, follow the written instructions and watch the video I created for you. See below. 

Watch this quick video on crochet magic circle

Here is how you crochet a magic circle

Start by forming a loop with the yarn, cross the end tail towards your left side under the working yarn. If you are a lefty, place the end tail to the right side. Leave a tail of about 3”.

That tail will be used to pull and close the center uptight later.

Estimated Cost: 5 USD

Supply:

• Worsted weight (4) yarn

Tools:

• Crochet hook
• Scissors
• Yarn needle

Materials: Stitch markers, if needed

When you have a few rounds done for your crochet project, make sure to go back and weave in that end, securing it tightly so it doesn’t come undone.

I hope you liked this tutorial. Leave a comment below if you have any questions or if you simply would like to say hi.

Here is a cute amigurumi doll that I created that you could use the magic circle for. The pattern is free here on the blog. 

My patterns are available for download for an inexpensive fee on Etsy here.

Drop a comment below if you have any questions or if you just would like to say “hi”. Another way to reach out to me is by joining my community group on Facebook. 

If you use any of my patterns or tutorials for a project, please tag me @zamiguz or use the hashtag #zamiguzmakers. I would love to see what you make.

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