Whether you’re brand new to crochet or just looking for a refresher, today’s tutorial will help you build a strong foundation by teaching you two essential techniques: the slip knot and the magic ring (also called the magic circle). These are the very first steps to many crochet projects—especially round ones like amigurumi, coasters, and hats. Whilst techniques vary, these are the techniques I prefer to use.
🪢 What is a Slip Knot?
The slip knot is how we attach the yarn to our hook and begin most crochet projects. It is followed by chains to form the start of your project.
🔹 How to Make a Slip Knot:
- Take your yarn and leave a tail.
- Make a loop by crossing the working yarn tail over the yarn (attached to the ball).
- Pull the yarn (ball bit) back around your finger.
- Slide the back loop over the other and off your finger.
- Insert your hook into the loop and gently pull to tighten the yarn.
✨ Tip: Don’t pull it too tight—your hook should move freely in the loop!
🌀 What is a Magic Ring?
The magic ring allows you to crochet in the round with no hole in the centre. It’s often used in patterns for stuffed toys, mandalas, or circular motifs.
🔹 How to Make a Magic Ring:
- Drape the yarn over your fingers, leaving a tail.
- Wrap the working yarn (connected to the ball) around your finger and across the tail (x shape).
- Hold the crossover point with your thumb.
- Insert your hook under the first strand of the X (closest to your fingertips) and grab the second strand (the working yarn).
- Pull the working yarn under the first strand—this forms a loop.
- Yarn over and pull through the loop on the hook to make a slip stitch.
- You now have a secure ring! You can begin crocheting into the ring.
✨ Tip: Once you’ve made your stitches (usually 6 sc for beginners), gently pull the tail to tighten the ring.
🧵 Final Thoughts
Both the slip knot and magic ring might feel tricky at first, but once you’ve practiced a few times, they’ll become second nature. They’re the building blocks of so many fun crochet projects, and learning them opens the door to creative possibilities!
👉 Want to see these steps in action? I’m working on a future beginner series so stay tuned!
💬 Over to You!
Have questions? Drop them in the comments below!
Or tag me @liziloulovecraft on your creations—I’d love to see what you’re making.
Happy stitching! 🐾
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