How to Crochet a Magic Ring: Step-by-Step Video

Q: Why does my magic ring keep coming loose?

Usually because the stitches were not worked over both strands of the ring, or because the tail was not woven in with a tapestry needle after closing.

Q: How many stitches go into a magic ring?

Six single crochets is standard for amigurumi and 8 to 12 for flatter circles, always following what the pattern says.

Q: Is there an alternative if I can not manage the magic ring?

Yes: chain two and work the first round into the second chain. It leaves a small hole but works while you practise.

The magic ring (also called the magic circle) is the starting point of almost every crochet project worked in the round — amigurumi, baskets, hats, flowers and coasters all begin here. In this video you’ll learn how to crochet a magic ring step by step, how to close it so there is no hole in the centre, and what to do if it works loose.

How to crochet a magic ring, step by step

Wrap the yarn around your fingers. Lay the yarn over your index and middle finger and cross it into a loop, leaving a tail of about 10 cm.
Pull a loop through. Insert the hook into the ring, catch the working yarn and pull it through. Work one chain to secure the loop — it does not count as a stitch.
Work into the ring. Crochet your single crochets (or whichever stitch the pattern calls for) over both strands of the ring, not over a single strand.
Close the centre. Once the first round is complete, pull the loose tail: the circle draws closed and the centre hole disappears.
Join the round. Close with a slip stitch into the first stitch, or continue in a spiral, depending on your pattern.

Common magic ring mistakes

Working over one strand only. If the stitches don’t enclose both strands, the ring never closes fully. This is the number one cause of a hole in the centre.
Leaving the tail too short. With less than 8–10 cm you can’t weave the end in properly and the ring will open up with use.
Not securing the tail. For amigurumi, sew the tail in with a tapestry needle after closing — without that, stuffing will push the centre open again.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my magic ring keep coming loose?

Almost always for one of two reasons: the stitches were not worked over both strands of the ring, or the tail was never woven in. Close the ring, work the second round, and only then sew the tail in with a tapestry needle.

How many stitches go into a magic ring?

Six single crochets is standard for amigurumi, and 8 to 12 for flatter circles. Follow your pattern — crowding in more stitches than needed makes the centre bulge.

Is there an alternative if I can’t manage the magic ring?

Yes. Chain two and work the first round into the second chain. It leaves a small hole, but it is a perfectly workable option while you practise the magic ring.