How to Crochet in the Round + Free in the Round Patterns
Crochet in circles with this tutorial for crocheting in the round.
This is a great step-by-step tutorial that teaches you how to crochet in the round. If you're a beginner, try this stitch out in order to make so many more crochet patterns.
Follow these simple steps explained by Emi Harrington and you'll be able to work up a lovely round crochet pattern. Maybe you'll even become so proficient at crocheting in the round that you'll be able to teach others!
Plus, in addition to this crochet tutorial, we have included some of our favorite easy round crochet patterns. There aren't just crochet circles! When you use round crochet starting with a magic circle, you'll find there are a lot of things to make. This list below includes hats, amigurumi, rugs, and so much more.
What's the difference between the magic circle, the magic ring crochet technique, and the magic loop? They're all ways to start a crochet project in the round and... they're all different names for the same technique! Check out our video for aHow to Crochet a Magic Circle
How to Crochet in the Round:
Click on any image to enlarge.
-
Chain a magic ring on which to build your crochet in the round: chain 5, slip stitch to join.
-
Chain 2 to begin to double crochet.
-
Make the required number of double crochet stitches for the round. In this case 10 double crochet, plus the chain 2.
-
Slip stitch to join. Slip stitch into the top of the chain 2 at the beginning of the row. (See below, step 10 and 11 for the correct stitch to slip stitch into).
-
Chain 2 to begin the next round of stitches.
-
Turn the work to go in the other direction. (You may also crochet in the round in spiral fashion, in which case you do not turn.)
-
Complete the required number of stitches for the round. (In almost all cases, you will be increasing stitches in this round.)
-
Slip stitch to join the round.
-
Close-up of the stitch to slip stitch into in order to have an invisible seam.
-
The most common error in crochet in the round is slip stitching in the wrong stitch. The arrow in the photo below points to the correct stitch in which to make the slip stitch to join.
-
NOTE: In the photo below, see that the hook actually passes under two strands of yarn. It may seem that you have gone over one stitch too far, however, the stitch before this one does not have two strands to pass the hook under.
-
The photo below of the finished crochet circle shows a 3 row round, with no obvious area of the slip stitch and turn.
Read about Harrington's experience with crochet in her AllFreeCrochet designer bio here.
Round Crochet Patterns
Now that you've learned this technique, put it to practice. Crochet a hat in the round, make a circle rug, simple coasters, and more with the free crochet patterns we're sharing below.
From jersey cotton fabric yarn to wool, this beautiful crochet rug pattern uses simple stitches to build a beautiful, personal product for your home.
Because this easy crochet hat pattern uses a size H crochet hook, as well as single and half-double crochet stitches, it works up quickly.
Isn't this little heart adorable? You'll start out with making a magic circle or magic ring, so you're halfway to knowing how to make it already!
These lovely crochet coasters aren't much different than what you just learned. They are simple crochet circles, so it's going to be an easy pattern to start with.
Say "bonjour" to your new favorite hat. This Classic French Beret is the perfect pattern for ladies who want to feel chic and elegant anywhere and anytime.
This pretty crochet bag is the perfect size for running quick errands around town. The bag is completed by joining together a number of crocheted granny squares.