Magic circles are an integral part of a lot of crochet patterns. Although almost every toy pattern starts with this important step, there isn’t just one way to make one. Today I’ll share my two favorite methods, one is easier for beginners and the other makes a more closed and complete shape.
Contents
I think I have seen three or four different circle methods illustrated in youtube videos or crochet books now, but there is one which I currently favor.
In this instructional video we will show you how to produce my favourite Magic Circle. Remember, if you are new to crochet then use a bright colour, which will enable you to easily see the stitches you create. You might find it helpful to use a slightly larger hook size as well, 5mm or bigger.
Simple Crochet Magic Circle Method
This method gives you a neat circle. It looks pretty, and it holds tight. It is the only method that I have so far not had unravel after the project has been used.
I give a lot of my blankets to my enthusiastic toddler to both sleep and play with. She pulls them about both in bed and when playing with her numerous dollies.
Granny square blankets that aren’t just used for decorative purposes need to hold firm, even in the face of lively kiddy play. I am confident that this method gives you that result.
Chaining A Crochet Circle
There is a method of crocheting a circle which is easier than this one. For certain projects it is absolutely fine to use it.
The method I’m referring to is the chain method. Simply crochet a short chain and slip stitch it together.
The downside is that you can’t tighten up your circle after it’s complete.
This means that you need to pick the number of stitches in the circle which will give an appropriate size for your project.
In some cases you might like to consider using a smaller hook for the central circle than you do for the rest of the piece.
The lack of tightening is an important factor though, and for this reason I would not recommend starting with a chain for making a project that needs stuffing for example. Toys with little holes on the tops of their heads always look slightly odd, and might leak stuffing later on.
Don’t Panic!
Although magic circles can seem a little daunting when you first start out crocheting, you will quickly find that if you practice a few times they are the best method of making a circle for a lot of projects.
Intricate works and toys will be vastly improved by the use of one. So let’s have a look at a video demonstrating my favourite technique.
How To Crochet A Magic Circle
To help you to work along with the video, here are some written instructions to give you a hand once you have watched the video:
- Pull out a long tail of yarn
- Lay the yarn over your hand
- Wrap the yarn twice over your third and fourth fingers
- Put the hook through these two loops
- Hook up the yarn and pull through
- Yarn through again
- Double crochet the number of stitches shown in your pattern into the main ring
- Pull one of the loose yarn threads to tighten
- Pull the tail to complete
I recommend trying to crochet along with the video, and pausing when you make each yarn over motion. This will help you to keep track. Remember, it’s just a matter of repetition. Practice makes perfect!