Have you ever tried using double-pointed needles to work in the round and find them too much, or those really tiny circular needles for socks and if you’re like me get hand cramps or just keep dropping them? If so, Magic Loop may just be the knitting method you need for tiny projects or items that need working in the round.
What is Magic Loop?
This knitting technique is used when working in the round on a pair of circular needles. You will be splitting your work into two parts where one part is on the needles and the other is on the circular cable and then you switch and work the other part.
What you need:
- Circular needs with a long cable such as these Zing 4mm https://amzn.to/3FSeoCn
- Yarn to practice with
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How to Knit With the Magic Loop Method:
To start the Magic Loop method cast on your required number of stitches plus one extra using your preferred cast on method. It’s best to use either a 32” or 40” cable so that you have enough room to move your stitches around.
Split your stitches into two parts by moving your stitches into the centre of the cable, fold your cable and pull a loop through. Holding your needles pointing to the left move both sets of stitches on to the needles and bind off the first stitch with the last stitch by moving the first stitch on to the back needle and pull the last stitch over the first. This joins your stitches in the round and provides a smooth join.
Next, turn your stitches so they are pointing to the right and pull out the needle at the front (closest to you), this is now your working needle. Now use this needle to start knitting the stitches on your left needle.
Once you have finished those stitches pull the cable loop gently to bring those unworked stitches on to the free needle. Now pull the needle that has the worked stitches on so that it is now your free needle to work the new stitches while the previous stitches are secure on the cable.
Repeat the above process until you have either finished your project or the section you are working on.
Patterns:
Hat and sock patterns are a great way to practice your Magic Loop method and I have a great textured hat pattern or a free sock pattern to get you started:
- Knitted Hat Pattern With Bamboo Stitch Child Hat Pattern | Etsy UK
- Free Textured Beginner Sock Pattern – Relaxing With Yarn
- Bonus option: Beginner Friendly Hat Knitting Patterns – Relaxing With Yarn
If you ever need any help with these patterns and tutorials please feel free to get in touch and I would be happy to help. You can subscribe to the mailing list here 👉 http://eepurl.com/gheYY9 and subscribe to our YouTube channel for upcoming videos on patterns and tutorials here 👉 Bobby Andrews – YouTube