How to Crochet a Magic Circle

A magic circle is a way to start a crochet project that doesn't involve chains, tension, or holes. It's one of the most popular ways to start different types of crochet projects but particularly important and helpful for amigurumi and round crochet patterns.
 

For the visual learners, learn how to crochet the magic loop by following along with this YouTube video right below. As helpful as the photo tutorial is, seeing the movements in real-time always helps crocheters understand what to do.
 

FIRST: Want to save this pattern tutorial for later or print it out in an easy-to-follow format? Get our free printable PDF.

Click Here to Download
the How to Crochet a Magic Circle PDF
How to Print the PDF:
Printing this is as easy as 1-2-3! If you're not familiar with printing PDFs, here's the step-by-step, along with a few tips.

1. Click the red button right above this section that reads, "Click Here to Download the How to Crochet a Magic Circle PDF". Or, just click this link here to download.
    
2. Find and open the PDF.
   Pro tip: You may see the download appear at the bottom of your browser window, and you can open it from there. Or check wherever your downloads are set to save to (the Downloads folder is often a default location).
    
3. Click the "Print File" button, choose the printer, choose how many copies you want, make any additional adjustments needed for personal preference, and click the "Print" button.
    
4. Grab your hook, yarn, any other supplies needed, and you'll be ready to crochet this beauty!

1. To make the magic loop and learn how to crochet circles, first begin in the same manner as usual in crochet: Make a loop.

2. Pick up the yarn.

3. Pull through the first loop.

4. Pick up the yarn again to make a chain stitch.

5. Pull through the loop. (Chain stitch completed.)

6. Pick up the yarn again to begin a single crochet stitch.

7. Pull through the loop.

8. Pick up the yarn again, and finish the single crochet stitch.

9. Continue to make single crochet stitches in the main loop.

10. At the end of the round of single crochet stitches, pull on the yarn end to gather the hole closed, and continue with your pattern.

11. Photo shows the magic circle finished, with the hole gathered closed.

What did you think about our magic loop tutorial? If you think you have a handle on the crochet technique, check out some of our top patterns that use the crochet magic circle technique below!

1. Vineyard Grapes Granny Square - With a beautiful color combination, this garden-tastic granny square will delight you.
    
2. Recycled T-Shirt Crochet Rug - Shown below! Not only is this crochet rug gorgeous, but it's functional too. Add this for the perfect addition to any home.

3. Pansy Crochet Flower - These crochet pansies are as beautiful as the real things. Make a whole garden of yarn with these.
    
4. Magical Market Bag - There is a bit of magic in the making of this bag. It's an easy and efficient pattern that creates a lovely and useful bag.
    
5. Crochet Orange - It looks so delicious, you'll want to eat it! Now that you know how to crochet the magic circle, this orange amigurumi pattern will be super simple.
    
6. Peacock Crochet Earrings - Shown below! These crochet earrings are some of the most beautiful designs we have seen. Make these using magic circle crochet.

7. Fingerless Minion Mitts - Minions are super popular which is why this fun crochet project is a fun one that many will enjoy.
    
8. Hexagon Crocheted Scarf - This crochet scarf pattern uses the magic ring to keep the shapes tight within the design.
    
9. Daring Diamond Kids Hat - We can't get over the pretty texture of this children's hat. The diamonds create a beautiful look that everyone loves.
    
10. Sea Glass Crochet Bag - Shown below! Perfect for a beach-loving crocheter or a gift for a beach-bound friend, this cute bag is a must-make.