How to crochet a magic ring (step by step)
The magic ring (also called a magic circle or adjustable ring) is how almost every amigurumi begins. It lets you start working in the round with no hole in the middle — and once it clicks, you will never go back to chaining four.
- Skill
- Beginner
- Time
- 10 minutes
- Makes
- 6 cm practice circle
- Yarn
- Worsted cotton
- Hook
- 3.5–4 mm
- Terms
- US (UK notes)
In this post
A regular "chain four and join" start always leaves a small hole at the centre of your work. With a magic ring, you crochet around an adjustable loop of yarn and then pull the tail to close it completely — perfect for toys, where a hole would let stuffing peek through.
What you'll need
| Yarn | Smooth, light-coloured worsted (aran) cotton — easier to see your stitches |
|---|---|
| Hook | 3.5–4 mm, ideally ergonomic |
| Stitch marker | To mark the first stitch of each round |
| Scissors & tapestry needle | For finishing |
Abbreviations
This pattern uses US crochet terms. UK equivalents are in brackets.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ch | chain |
| sc | single crochet (UK: double crochet) |
| inc | 2 sc in the same stitch |
| st(s) | stitch(es) |
| MR | magic ring |
Step by step
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Step 1: Make a loop
Hold the yarn tail in your palm and wrap the working yarn around two fingers so it crosses over itself, forming an X on the back of your fingers.
Step 1 photoPhoto placeholder — add your own -
Step 2: Pull up a loop
Slide your hook under the first strand of the X, catch the second strand and pull it back under. You now have a loop on your hook and a ring around your fingers.
Step 2 photoPhoto placeholder — add your own -
Step 3: Chain one to secure
Yarn over and pull through the loop on your hook. This chain does not count as a stitch — it just locks the ring in place.
TipKeep the ring loose at this stage. It is much easier to work into a big ring and tighten it later.Step 3 photoPhoto placeholder — add your own -
Step 4: Work single crochets into the ring
Insert your hook into the centre of the ring (under both strands — the ring and the tail), yarn over, pull up a loop and complete a single crochet. Repeat until you have the number of stitches your pattern asks for, usually six.
Step 4 photoPhoto placeholder — add your own -
Step 5: Pull the tail to close
Hold your stitches gently and pull the yarn tail. The ring will shrink until the centre is completely closed. Give it a firm tug — then a second one.
Step 5 photoPhoto placeholder — add your own -
Step 6: Continue in spirals
Place a stitch marker in the first stitch and keep going in a continuous spiral, without joining. Move the marker up at the start of every round.
TipWeave the starting tail back through the first round in the opposite direction so the ring can never loosen.Step 6 photoPhoto placeholder — add your own
Practice: a flat circle
Rounds
- Round 1MR, 6 sc in ring (6)
- Round 2inc in each st around (12)
- Round 3(sc, inc) × 6 (18)
- Round 4(2 sc, inc) × 6 (24)
- Finishsl st to next st, fasten off and weave in ends
The number in brackets is your stitch count at the end of each round. © 2026 Little Loop Finds — free for personal use; please link rather than copy.
Common mistakes
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Rather buy one finished?
This hand-crocheted highland cow starts with a magic ring — and is made for you by an independent maker. Read our review.
From ~€38 on Etsy (opens Etsy in a new tab)Frequently asked questions
Why does my magic ring keep opening?
Usually because the tail was not woven back through the first round. Weave it in the opposite direction and the ring will stay closed.
Can I use a chain-four start instead?
Yes, but it leaves a small hole in the centre. For toys and hats the magic ring gives a neater result.
Which yarn is best for practising?
A smooth, light-coloured worsted cotton. Dark or fluffy yarn makes it hard to see your stitches.
