The magic loop technique in knitting is an awesome method that is growing in popularity among knitters of all skill levels. In knitting when you plan on creating seamless projects there are multiple ways to do so. When you have circular knitting needles you just have to go in rounds, but the general rule is that the length (including the cord) should be smaller than the project circumference. If you do not have the right length then you have other options including the magic loop. With your regular circular needles (fixed or interchangeable) connected with a cord of 32 inches to 40 inches, you can knit the magic loop. You can also work with different lengths as long as you are comfortable balancing the cable. This way you can knit small circumferences, such as sleeves or hats, with ease without being restricted by the cord length.
In this blog post, let’s walk you through knitting the Magic Loop method and explore how you can work on seamless projects with ease. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced, the knitting technique is definitely something you won't want to miss.
What will you need?
To get started with the magic loop technique, you require a circular knitting needle. You can have any fixed circular knitting needle or interchangeable ones or even a complete set in any standard size or material as long as you are comfortable working with. The cord length is the most important factor for the technique as they fold down into loops to hold the stitches and create small or adjustable circumferences to accommodate the stitches.
What type of cord do I use for the Magic Loop?
You need to work with a cord long enough to hold the required number of stitches comfortably and has enough length left to be pulled out between the cast-on stitches. The ideal length of the cord will depend on the circumference of the project you are working on.
Generally, a minimum cord length of at least 32 inches is recommended to work on a smaller circumference, such as a hat or a sock and for a larger project, such as a sweater, a longer cable of 40 inches or more. Always make sure that the cord is flexible enough to allow you to manipulate it easily, without causing the stitches to stretch or distort.
To make things simple unique nylon-coated stainless steel swivel cords come in! The Lantern Moon knitting cords and connectors are designed to move along with your labor, allowing you to easily transition from one side of your project to the other without hassle. The fixed as well as swivel cords allows flexibility. They bend easily making it easier to move the cord through stitches as you work without getting caught or snagged. Also, stainless steel is durable and can withstand frequent movement without having to worry about breaking or fraying.
If you are avid knitter, a knitting needle set with different cords is the most convenient option. Interchangeable circular knitting needle sets work for all kinds of project whether you choose to knit in rounds or go back and forth.
What are the Advantages of the Magic Loop?
The Magic Loop has been very popular since its invention. Earlier for working seamless projects, especially the small circumferences, double-pointed knitting needles were the only option. Many knitters would find the multiple needles and tips fiddly and difficult to manage. The technique to knit with a single long circular needle is versatile. This way you can easily work for different projects, from a pair of socks to large size sweaters and adjust the length of your cord to fit your stitches. You do not have to worry about ladders or gaps between your needles, which can sometimes occur when using double-pointed needles. And, many knitters find it more comfortable as there are no hard needle tips to manage between your fingers and the cord can be easily adjusted to suit your preferred tension.
The Magic Loop - A Step-by-Step Tutorial
Step 1: Cast on the required number of stitches for your project in any method you prefer on one needle tip. Cast an extra stitch to smoothly join the round. Say for example, you have to cast 30-50 stitches, you can use the long tail cast on project but make sure to calculate the exact length. You can work any other cast on method. If you are following the instructions of a pattern designer, make sure to follow the cast on method mentioned.
Step 2: Slide the cast-on stitches to the middle of the cord. Pull the cord through the stitches. Make sure that there are an even number of stitches.
Step 3: The cord will be bent in half with the two needle tips parallel to each other. Do take a quick look that none of the stitches are twisted. If you find any stitch awry, straighten it out making them face the same direction uniformly.
Step 4: To start working on the cast on stitches and begin your project, move half of the stitches onto the needle in your right hand. The other half of the stitches will be kept on the cord once again between the stitches. If you have cast on an extra stitch to join the round, slip it on the other needle tip.
Step 5: Before you join the round and slip the extra cast-on stitch, make sure to place a stitch marker on the right-hand needle tip to mark the beginning of the round. You can use any of your stitch markers to remind you of the start of the round.
Step 6: Now begin your regular knitting. Hold the right-hand needle and knit the first stitch. Keep in check that you tighten the stitch to prevent a gap from forming between the joins, where the needle and cord meets. Knit the first half of the stitches until you get to the cord.
Step 7: Now it is time to work the other half of the stitches. Slide the stitches to the middle of the cord and move the second half of the stitches onto your working needle. Again, make sure the stitches are evenly divided and tighten the stitches to prevent laddering.
To continue with the magic loop technique of knitting, repeat the steps 6 and 7 till you get to reach the stitch marker.
As you progress, knitting in the round becomes much easier, allowing you to focus on the joy of creating and the satisfaction of watching your project take shape. With premium knitting needles from the Lantern Moon Collection, enjoy a smooth crafting experience. Handcrafted by skilled artisans, each tool and accessory is fashioned from precious ebony wood that has a liquid silk finish that makes knitting with them smooth and comfortable.
Happy Knitting!