How to Make a Magic Ring in Amigurumi Crochet

The Magic Ring (also known as the magic circle or adjustable loop) is a technique used to begin crocheting in the round by working your stitches into an adjustable loop – then pulling the loop tight to close it completely.

When I first started crocheting, I used the Chain 2 method to create a starting ring. In this method, you add a series of stitches into the second chain from your hook. It works – but it leaves a small visible hole in the centre, and in amigurumi projects, that little hole can let the stuffing peek through.

The Magic Ring method eliminates that hole entirely, giving your crochet pieces a perfectly closed and professional-looking centre.
Take a look at the difference in the photos below – the Magic Ring gives your amigurumi a beautiful, seamless start.

I know the idea of the Magic Ring can sound a bit tricky at first, but I promise – once you’ve tried it a few times, you’ll wonder how you ever crocheted without it!

There are a few different ways to make a Magic Ring, but I’ll show you the simple method I learnt and still use to this day.
You can follow the step-by-step photo tutorial below, or scroll down to watch my video tutorial for a hands-on demonstration.

How To Make a Magic Ring: Step-by-Step Photo Tutorial

Step 1: Position Your Yarn

Lay your yarn across your non-dominant hand, with the working side of the yarn at the top, as shown in the photo.

Step 2: Wrap the Yarn Around Your Fingers

Wrap the yarn once around two or three fingers, crossing it over so that the working yarn sits on the left.

Step 3: Insert the Hook

Turn your hand inward so you can see the tops of your fingers. With your crochet hook, pass under the front loop and grab the back loop.

Step 4: Pull Through to Create a Loop

Pull the yarn through and twist your hook upward to create a loop on the hook.

Step 5: Secure the Loop

Wrap your hook under the working yarn and yarn over, pulling up a loop. Then, pull through the loop on your hook to make a chain 1 to secure the ring. (This chain does not count as a stitch – it simply secures your ring.)

Step 6: Remove Your Fingers

Gently slide your fingers out of the ring – and there you have it, your Magic Ring! You’re now ready to crochet your stitches into the ring.

Step 7: Crochet Into the Magic Ring

Work the specified number of stitches into the Magic Ring, as indicated in your pattern.

Step 8: Pull the Ring Closed

Pull the starting yarn tail firmly to close the ring completely.

Step 9: Continue Working in the Round

Your Magic Ring is now complete!

Tip: Don’t join the round with a slip stitch – most amigurumi patterns are worked in continuous spirals. Simply continue with the next round as per your pattern, and use a stitch marker to mark the beginning of each round.

Practice Makes Perfect

I hope this tutorial has been helpful! When you’re just starting out in crochet, some techniques can take a little practice – but I promise, once you get the hang of the Magic Ring, you’ll never look back. It’s one of those small skills that makes a big difference in your amigurumi projects, just like the Invisible Decrease.

How to Make a Magic Ring: Video Tutorial

Prefer a visual aid? Watch my step-by-step video tutorial below to see exactly how to make a Magic Ring – it’s easier than you think!