Knitting in the round is a total game-changer in the life of a knitter, but when you’re making something smaller, you’re gonna need some magic, you gonna need magic loop!
Knitting a small number of stitches in-the-round can be challenging especially if you just aren’t feeling confident with DPNs (double-pointed needles).
DPN sets sold in 5’s; the stitches for the sock would be cast on to 4 needles with the 5th used to knit onto.
But, if you struggle with DPN needles, like me, you have to try the Magic loop method.
Magic loop is a technique for working in the round that AVOIDS the use of double pointed needles. Using longer-than-usual circular needles, at least a 32″, you can knit projects even with very small circumferences. It’s a unique way to work small circumference knitting with just one needle without the hand cramps experience.
Tip: Try to relax the cable of your circular needle with hot water before you begin knitting.
Pro tip: if you want to know more Bev Galeskas and Fiber Trends published the first book on the subject.
How to
To begin, the total number of stitches is cast on in a typical manner, then the stitches are moved to the center of the long cable, and divided in half by folding the needle and pulling it between the two center stitches.
Gently pull the needle with the working yarn attached to the right, which forces the 30 sts previously on the Back needle onto the cable.
The needle that has no working yarn attached is where you will start knitting in the round, as normal.
And because I know not everyone learns from reading, there is a lot of video tutorial and demonstrations online, like this one from All Free Knitting, my favorite!