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The Magic Loop is a technique of knitting small circumferences on a circular needle. The method requires circular knitting needles with needle lengths around 36″ (80 cm) to 47″ (150 cm). The trick to knitting in the round with Magic loop technique with circular needles is to gently bend the cable to pull a loop or two on either sides with needle tips holding the stitches. You only knit with the tips with the cable forming the loop in and out.
So, what does magic loop mean?
It is a knitting technique first mentioned by Sarah Hauschka. The famous knitter had mentioned this method first in Beverly Galeskas’s booklet The Magic Loop in 2002. Since then, the method became the talk of the town with more and more knitters taking up the magic loop for knitting small circumferences.
Knitting in the round comes seamlessly with circular knitting needles but if the circumference is too small and the needle length longer, stitches tend to get stretched. But, with the magic loop, it has become possible to knit the tips of mittens, baby hats, socks and so much more.
The trick behind knitting the magic loop is simple; separate your project into two parts or what can be said as a set of joined stitches on both needle tips. One part is always on the flexible cable while the other is on the tips. As the cable is long enough, you can use the needle tip on the other end of the cable to knit stitches freely.
So, for this magical technique of knitting, how to choose circular knitting needles? We have three points to keep in mind.
- Cable Length
The first and foremost requirement is a long cable that’s 100 cm (36″) or even 150 cm (47″). You can also go for a length of 80 cm (32") Now, do not choose any long cable but one that forms a flexible loop. Sometimes too much cable length can be annoying to pull back and forth constantly.
If you are a regular knitter using the technique of magic loop frequently, it’s best to invest in an Interchangeable Knitting Needles Set with multiple needle sizes, cable lengths, and other accessories. This allows you the chance to even switch the cables according to your comfort. And, this way you can have a complete set for all knitting projects whether you knit in the round or back and forth. You can also go ahead with a fixed circular knitting needle or a set, which is completely dedicated to the magic loop technique.
Needle Cable Material
Knitters have their own preference for needle material; some prefer stainless steel or metal tips to move stitches around easily. Many knitters prefer wood or bamboo so that stitches don’t slip around much. Advanced knitters have many needle materials, types and sizes in their stash to choose the appropriate tool for the project. There are also knitters exploring specially designed cubic knitting needles for a better grip for knitters who face health issues that impact their hands and wrist. Choosing a particular knitting needle material depends on your preference. You can choose any needle for the magic loop.
Similar to the knitting needles, it just takes a bit of trial and error to figure out the cables of the circular knitting needles. So, before you start your knitting, unwind the cables. Test the cable flexibility by simply bending the cable back and forth. If the cable is ready to bend to your will then you have the right cable. If it has a mind of your own, then give it some pampering to listen to you. Make it adjustable by dipping it in warm water. Some balanced heat will unwind its kinks and make it pliable to bend it for the loop. The best option though will be to choose memory-free cords in flexible materials. Also, make sure that the cable can survive the constant in and out movements without breaking down.
Smooth Joint
Lastly, choose circular needles that have a smooth join between the needle and the cable. With the constant movement back and forth through the stitches, it is important to have a smooth flow. You would not want the yarn or knit stitches to be stuck or snag. A smooth join between needle and cable is vital for the success of your project. Fixed circular knitting needles have an added bonus as they were manufactured together while a quality interchangeable needle set will also prevent any issues.
Once you have taken these points into consideration, you are ready for knitting with the Magic Loop. The Mindful Collection offers a range of stainless steel knitting needles, smooth teal cables and accessories that focus on the meditative practice of knitting. So, get ready for knitting those cute baby hats, socks, mitten tips and so much more.
