How to knit using magic loop

Knit in the round using the magic loop method instead of double-pointed needles.

Magic loop is a knitting technique in which a single circular knitting needle is used to knit in the round. While some knitters may prefer using double-pointed needles or two circulars, many appreciate the simplicity of only needing one needle to complete a project. Tubes and other items knit in the round such as sleeves, hats and socks can be knitted using this technique; there is no lower limit on circumference with magic loop.

Things You'll Need

• 36" circular knitting needle
• Yarn

Instructions

Instructions

1. Cast on your desired number of stitches. No new techniques are needed for casting on with magic loop. Simply cast on the stitches using whichever method is most appropriate to the project you are making. Bear in mind that items knitted in the round generally require a stretchy cast on.

2. Slide the stitches to the center of the cable. Once your stitches are in the center, divide them approximately in half and mark that spot with your finger. Pull the cable between the two halves of your stitches until half of the stitches are at the base of one needle and half at the other and the needles are parallel.

3. Push the stitches without the working yarn tail onto the needle. With the needle tips pointing to the right, hold the needles so that the side with the working yarn is furthest away from you. Pull the needle furthest from you to the right, so that about half the cable is exposed. The stitches with the working yarn should be resting on the cable.

4. Pull the needle without stitches until it is pointing to the left. Insert the needle into the first stitch and knit, taking care not to twist your stitches. Continue knitting until you have reached the end of the first half of the stitches.

5. Turn your work 90 degrees, so that the stitches you just knitted are furthest away from you. Push the stitches closest to you onto the needles. Pull the back needle through the stitches you just knitted, until there is enough cable for you to point the needle to the left and insert into the first stitches on the needle closest to you. Knit all stitches on this needle, and repeat Steps 1 through 5 until your piece is completed.

References

• Magic Loop Video Tutorial
• Magic Loop Tutorial
• How to Knit Small Circumferences With One Long Circular