Learn how to make a magic ring (magic circle) with this easy crochet tutorial, including a step-by-step video guide!
If you’re new to Amigurumi, you’ll often hear the term magic ring. It’s one of the most essential techniques for crocheting in the round without leaving a hole in the center.
There are two main ways to make a magic ring, plus an alternative method if the traditional ring is tricky for you. This tutorial will show you all of them, including tips for working with plush yarn.
Basic Stitches Tutorial: Need help with the other basic stitches you need to know to make Amigurumi? Check out my Basic Stitches Tutorial.
Table of contents
One Loop Magic Ring:
The one-loop magic ring is the easiest method to start with.
Tip: When using cotton yarn, it may leave a slightly visible hole in the center, but it works well with most yarn types.
Steps:
1. Make a loop around your finger with the yarn, and insert your crochet hook into the loop.
2. Grab the working yarn with your hook and pull it through the loop.
3. Yarn over (grab the yarn again) and pull it through the loop on your hook.
4-7. Crochet the stitches required for your pattern into the loop.
(In the example below, you’ll make 6 single crochets inside the magic circle.)
8. Gently pull the short yarn tail to close the ring and tighten the center.
I’ve also made a video tutorial below showing exactly how to create the one-loop magic ring
Two loops Magic Ring
The two-loop magic ring creates a nearly invisible hole in the center, giving your work a cleaner finish.
Note: Avoid using plush or chenille yarn with this method, as it can be hard to tighten smoothly.
I also made video tutorial, where I’ll show you step-by-step how to create a two-loop magic circle.
1. Wrap the yarn twice around your finger to make two loops, and insert your crochet hook under both loops.
2. Grab the working yarn and pull it through the two loops.
3. Yarn over and pull it through the loop on your crochet hook.
4-7. Crochet the required stitches into the ring. (In the example below, there are 6 single crochets inside the magic circle.)
8-10. Gently pull the short yarn tail to begin closing the ring.
– You’ll notice one loop starts getting smaller — don’t tighten that one yet.
– Instead, pull the smaller loop to close the other loop completely.
– Finally, pull the yarn tail again to tighten the center securely.
You can also watch my video tutorial below to see this method in action.
Closing a Magic Ring with Plush Yarn
It can be difficult to close a magic ring when working with plush or chenille yarn.
When you try to pull the yarn tail, the ring often won’t close completely, or worse — the yarn may break while pulling.
To safely close a magic ring made with plush yarn:
– Don’t pull the yarn tail directly.
– Instead, hold the short yarn tail firmly with one hand, and with your other hand, gently pull the crocheted stitches over the ring to tighten it.
This method helps close the center without damaging or snapping the yarn.
You can also see this technique in action in the video tutorial below, I demonstrate exactly how to close the ring using plush yarn safely and effectively.
Video Tutorial
In this video, I show you step-by-step how to:
– Make a magic ring with one loop
– Make a magic ring with two loops
– Close a magic ring made with plush yarn safely and neatly
Whether you’re a beginner or just need a visual guide, this tutorial covers everything you need to start crocheting perfect magic rings for Amigurumi and other projects.
Alternative for the Magic Ring
If making a magic ring feels impossible, you can use this simple alternative.
Note: This method leaves a slightly larger hole in the center.
1. Create a chain with 2 chain stitches.
2. Crochet into the second chain from the hook, adding the number of stitches required by your pattern.
3. Optional: Close the ring with a slip stitch (slst) to form a neater circle.
This method is a simple workaround for beginners or for projects where a tiny hole in the center isn’t critical.
Free Amigurumi Tutorials, Videos, and Books
I hope this tutorial was helpful!
On my blog, you’ll find many free Amigurumi patterns and tutorials to help you create cute crochet toys.
I also have a YouTube channel with step-by-step videos for making mini Amigurumi stuffed animals.
If you prefer a collection of patterns in a book, check out the Books section on this site, where you’ll find books I’ve written and contributed to, all filled with adorable Amigurumi designs.