Glossary / Magic ring
MRMagic ring
An adjustable loop that starts crochet in the round with no hole.
Also written: MC, magic circle, adjustable ring
How to work it
Wrap the yarn around two fingers to form a ring, insert your hook, and pull up a loop. Work your first round of stitches into the ring, then pull the tail to cinch the center closed. It is how nearly every amigurumi and granny square begins, and it beats chaining a ring because you can close the middle completely. Also called a magic circle.
Common confusions
What does MR mean?
In crochet patterns, MR means Magic ring. An adjustable loop that starts crochet in the round with no hole.
Is a magic ring the same as a magic circle?
Yes. Magic ring, magic circle, and adjustable ring all name the same starting technique, and patterns abbreviate it MR or MC. The alternative, chaining a few stitches and joining them into a loop, is a different start that leaves a small permanent hole.
Why does my magic ring come undone?
The tail was not secured. Pulling the ring closed only cinches the loop; it does not lock it. Weave the tail firmly into several stitches on the wrong side, reversing direction once, before you stuff a piece. On amigurumi this is what stops the nose of a toy opening up later.
In other languages
| Language | Term | Abbreviation |
|---|---|---|
| English | Magic ring | MR |
| Español | Anillo mágico | am |
| Deutsch | Magischer Ring | Fadenring |
| Français | Cercle magique | no standard code |
| Italiano | Anello magico | no standard code |
| 日本語 | わの作り目 | no standard code |
Guides that use this stitch
Related stitches
Keep your place while you work this stitch. Worsted counts your rows and rounds and remembers your spot in the pattern, for crochet and knitting.
Get Worsted