Why We LOVE Magic Loop (vs. DPN or Circulars) PLUS How to Magic Loop | Off Our Needles S3E23
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- Опубліковано 26 сер 2024
- The magic loop method is perfect for projects that call for knitting in the round, like socks or hats. In this episode, The Grocery Girls tell you why they love magic loop knitting and show you how it’s done! Episode links below 👇
Want to learn more about the Magic Loop method? Check out “Knit Smarter With Magic Loop” taught by Lorilee Beltman for free with a Craftsy Unlimited 7-day free trial: craftsy.me/2okaiOm
Plus, find Magic Loop advice & free patterns here: craftsy.me/2ondpEy
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About this show
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Hold onto your needles! Tracie and Jodi, a.k.a. the Grocery Girls, are here to dish out fresh fiber inspiration. From project picks to wooly good gossip, things are about to get super knitty… and maybe just a little nutty.
About the hosts
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Meet our knitters up north, sisters Jodi and Tracie, a.k.a. the Grocery Girls. They're here to chat yarn, the pleasures of matching PJs and the perfection of tea + knitting. No guarantees they'll keep things PG!
About Craftsy
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I loved the DPNs, until I kept losing them. People on the metro looked at me weird crawling around on a dirty subway floor looking for the needle that wouldnt be found. I struggled a little learning the magic loop. It was worth it. Now I am just hooked on this method. Each to their own.
I was taught to do two at a time socks 🧦 with magic loop! I LOVE it! If I didn’t I’d only ever have one sock lol 😂
Hahah this is exactly why I ordered 2.00mm 47in needle so I can learn magic loop for two at a time cause I never have two socks
@@brandip2446 I have one I never finished and never will but since learning this method I have a couple of pair now never going back
I have tried all of the different methods of knitting in the round, and DPNs are still my all time favourite for smaller items. Regular circulars for larger things.
I'm with you on that, Melanie.
Two pluses for DPNs:
1) A set of 5 DPNs costs less than even one 9" circular, let alone 2 circulars or a 36".
2) As you knit around on DPNs, you get FOUR (or three, depending on how you divided your work) little "aaaaand done!" moments, which are very pleasant.
3) Bonus: having the work divvied up makes it a bit easier to count the stitches.
Good point; thanks for the info. I've only ever made one half a sock; LOL!! Maybe I'll get at it as a result of all the efforts here. ((:
I use DPNs only.
I fully agree with you. DPNS are far easier in my opinion, and working with a set of 5 let's one lay the work flat.
I'm knitting a fair isle sweater and I tried to do the sleeves with the magic loop method and I am HATING it. The stitches at the ends where the cord is hanging out are pulled way apart and I feel they never have the right look. And it's impossible to keep consistent tension when the stitches are going onto the cord. I'm having a really hard time articulating my hatred...but I hate it. I'm going back to the store to buy me some DPNs tomorrow.
I magic loop everything! I always felt "fancy" knitting with dpns, because non knitters would freak out about the technique. They would be mesmerized and think I was some sort of yarn magician. But once I learned magic loop I never went back. It makes travel knitting so much easier for me to manage. I even do my super bulky weight hats with Magic Loop. Something that fascinates me about the craft of knitting is that there are so many different tools and techniques to do the same thing, and that everybody likes something different.
I am a die hard 9" circ user. I learned on dpns then switched to magic loop but once I found 9" circs I never went back. It did take me a sock or two to figure out how to hold the needles comfortably since my hands are on the bigger side. But it really makes sock knitting so easy and enjoyable.
I love magic loop; but I ADORE my 8" and 9" circulars and I'll choose them over magic loop every time. But, magic loop is a great all around option, especially if you are on the go and only want to take one set of needles for a variety of projects. Very fun vid and awesome personalities!
Tried all except 2 circs. I am now a two at a time magic looper! Just couldn't stand having to start over for 2nd sock. No more 2nd sock syndrome for me. Love it!!
Thank you! I couldn't believe how hard it was to knit a plain little hat on 4 needles. Going to try this next time, Amanda
Also I always knit my socks 2 at a time with magic loop so no 2nd sock worries!
Me, too.
Me too
Oh, I understand.....but this technique might be too challenging for this 'ole brain.....?.....! LOL!!
Yep! Doing socks one at a time (keeping track of everything done the first time so you can duplicate the second sock) sounds like torture! If I did that, I'd have a whole lot of single socks. I love magic loop - so portable and easy to stuff into the knitting bag for on the go with no worries of having a dpn slip out or get lost - and it's fabulous to reach the end and be DONE - two socks!
I can't stand this method. I knit my socks 2 at a time on two sets of dpns. A part on the first sock, same part on the second sock. So they are nearly finished at the same time.
I've used dpn's for decreasing the tops of hats but only once for knitting socks. I was so stressed about ladders throughout the entire process. I tried everything but still had ladders. Yes they worked out after some washing and wearing but my concerns about them made it an unenjoyable process. I didn't knit another pair of socks for years until I discovered magic loop. It's easier for me to prevent ladders with that method and now I love having a pair of socks on the needles for times that I just want something simple to work on.
Magic Loop all the way! 🌸
Oh my goodness, what is that yarn in the video thumbnail!?!? So beautiful! 😍😍😍
I love magic loop!! The easiest way for me to remember which needle to pull was the one with you live yarn on it. Then I never pull the wrong one.
My favorite is two at a time socks on magic loop. Best way ever! Especially if you hate repeating!
Love that this video has substance. Discussing the different aspects of technique is exactly what is valued. I miss the longer sessions but this was worth it. Thanks for all. Love you Ladies,
Omg, using magic loop for the crown of a beanie………hugs!!!
I feel the same way. I’m a devoted DPNs, I love knitting my socks on DPNs.
Magic loop all the way. I've tried dpn, 9 inch and magic loop. Magic loop is my favorite. The others hurt my thumbs as I have arthritis from being a nurse for 30 years. And I love knitting socks. Keep up the good work.
I like magic loop as well. An added bonus is you can work both socks at the same time if you split your yarn ahead of time. Cast on is a little tricky so you always have the working yarn at the same end, but it is the best way to make both socks the same for me if I change anything up, or making it up as I go. Another tip is to try not to pull on the cables too much and push from the needles instead, it is possible to yank the cord out Of the end of the needle and its not very fun... Love you ladies!
I started using mini clover 9" plastic circulars years ago and it was a game changer here. Now you can't find them. But now the market for 9" needles has exploded, and 9inchers are all over. Still prefer them. Simple. I would even like to see a tinier circular needle for mitten thumbs! Like 4 inch!😁
Thanks ladies.
For me, 9 inch circulars were a game changer :-)
I'm one of those die hard 9in circular knitters. I have tryed all of these type before and as a continental knitter with bad wrists, 9in just work best for me because it's less to fiddle with. The best part is there is no one right way to knit. Find what works for you and just love the knitting. It took me years to find a way to knit that was not painful, I hated socks until just a few weeks ago when I got new 9in and a great pattern.
Rita Karns what pattern?
Kailey Greenwood www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sling-heel-socks
That call of "no right way" in the knitting world has been one of the really pleasant things I've found in this craft. I've jumped headlong into many hobbies over the years-woodworking, programming, electronics, machining, etc-all male-dominated, and there is so much fighting in all of those places, and so much "You're doing it wrong, idiot!" There's none of that in knitting world. It's very supportive. I like it.
@@garyfixler1960 Ooh, great points, Gary! What's on your hooks or needles? I've got a 100% cotton knit/crochet project going then a 100% baby alpaca project ongoing. (Baby blanket and shawl)......I'm thinking of trying the magic loop, too.
The 9" ChiaoGoos *changed my life* no exaggeration. And brand really does matter in this case, I find the others I have tried much harder to work with. I do use magic loop to do my toe decreases though.
I love 9iny go too but tired of having xhange needles for toes
LOVE LOVE LOVE Magic Loop! Like you, I WILL NOT use DPNs! Someone I met in a yarn store had a great description of using DPNs: Like wrestling a porcupine! 🤣
LOL!! I like to decrease a cap edge using a bottom up pattern with circulars, decrease until I'm forced to use dpns.....but to finish off with a crochet hook then leaving a hole up at the top for the 'messy bun' technique (hole on purpose).....people will admire my knit hat and I'll say, "It's knitted and crocheted! LOL!!
LOL--When I tried DPNs, my reaction was that it was like grappling with a hedgehog, so great minds think alike! I'm afraid my DPNs were in the bin after about 10 minutes (and they were quite nice ones, too). I'm not a very patient learner... but luckily, I tried magic loop and I was off and away!
I am not coordinated enough for dpns, love magic loop.
@@shirley6074 The only time I use a DPN is for an icord. And even that can be done on circulars! 😉
Ladies, I have tried and tried to love magic loop and I just. can't. do. it. It makes me crazy. My knitting is lumpy and weird and everything somehow gets twisted no matter what I do. I use 9" circs for socks and that is my jam. I totally understand why folks don't like the tiny circs, but I think that it might be easier if you are a continental knitter since you don't have to let go of the needle. Maybe? I didn't like DPNs when I first started knitting, but I am coming to love them and their versatility. Maybe some day I will love magic loop and be a complete convert. But for now, I will love that y'all (and other knitters) love magic loop and I will stick to my trusty tiny circs and DPNs.
8in circulars for the win!! I love using them and for me I get the best results. Another great episode with a lot of good info.
Thanks for how to use magic loop knitting socks, now going to give magic loop a try for sock knitting. Always enjoy your podcast .🐨🐨
Great explanation!
This is my FAVORITE video explaining the magic loop and other types of knitting in the round. Thank you!
I am under the gun to finish a sweater, knit in the round, for my daughter. I did not realize the sleeves were also knit in the round, top down. I HATE dpns. I'm always dropping stitches. Because I have interchangeable circular needles I have the ability to make my sleeve needles' cord 32 or 40". This tutorial was brilliant! I knit almost everything on circular needles anyway bc they are so much easier to travel with! THANK YOU FOR THIS TUTORIAL!
I must be the rare knitter that doesn't like magic loop. I much prefer dpns and I actually LOVE knitting on dpns. I'm weird and I know it :)
Andy Chen you're not alone... DPNs for me too... for ever 😊
Andy Chen Agree with Andy but I’m keeping my mind open to magic loop. I’d like to learn the magic loop technique then decide which to use.
Me, too!
Me too!
You're not weird. I love it too and I HATE the other methods.
I was knitting for six months when I saw a video on magic loop. I love this technique so much!!! If you haven’t tried it please do!!!
I have tried Magic Loop so many times and just have a problem with it. Long time knitter. But I think my problem is my circular needles are turbo, older ones with a heavier cord. I notice all the new needles have a light weight cord. You have inspired me to buy a new needle set with new cords and try it again. Love you GG.
YOU’RE FABULOUS!!I have tried and tried dpns and have put my project aside because I dreaded even working on it. With your help I’m back in the game ❤️
magic loop seems like such a good idea now I think about it, I use 9 inch circulars so have to do mine one at a time, but I love how fast I go on the 9". seems amazing how you can do two at a time, will have to give it a try!!
I love 4 pointed wouldn't think of using any other. Made so many socks no sewing
I have been knitting since I was 5 years old - am now 82. I had never used the magic loop needles, I just recently discovered the magic loop needles and LOVE them. Took a bit of practice to get used to them, it now in wouldn’t use any other method
Magic loop two at a time..... you can’t beat it!
Sheri Sterling
This! I love finishing two socks at once. They're always exactly identical that way
Desiree Barhorst-Weller I’m a “thrower” too. I knit English. I’ve tried learning flicking, picking, continental but I just can’t wrap my brain around it. I’m happy knitting English. It’s not a speed contest, it’s supposed to be relaxing and fun
I can't knit continental too, although I'm also a crocheter with the yarn in my left hand. Knitting that way feels too awkward for me .
As long as you're happy with the way you're knitting (english or continental) and it works for you, i think it shouldn't matter which way you knit ☺
I just found magic loop last month. Love it I can now do a set of socks at the same time with this method.
For the longest time I had no idea what was so special about magic loop. Thank you so much ladies for straightening it out for me. I'm am definitely going to give this a shot and I'm pretty sure I'll love it!
Loved you girls and this video. I love magic loop and do my socks 2 @ a time on 40” cord! 😊
I learned to knit socks on two needles so I have lots of 24 inch needles. I've tried the 9 inch circs and didn't have too much trouble, but it did make my gauge looser and when my hands hurt it's not a comfortable method for me. I knit knockers on double points and happy that I am fairly proficient with them now but still it's annoying to get poked by the dpns. Now that you have demystified Magic circle in the demo I'm going to try it. Funny, I recently purchased an entire set of 32 inch circular needles off Amazon that the Budget Knitter recommended (that I like every bit as much as my Chiagoos and Addis) in all different sizes so I could learn this method. No excuses now! Thanks!
You just saved my life. I’m just starting out knitting. First cardigan in the round the sleeves were killing me with DPNs. I did try a circular needle but it was too short. Just found this. Tried it. Love it 😍 ! Thanks ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This is game changing! I used double pointed needles in the past I'm heading to Bluprint now to check out the class! 🌸
I’m with you ladies! Magic loop is the best for me!
Thank you for sharing this podcast. I have tried to use DPNs for knitting socks, but I feel like I have to atleast 4 extra hands to hold them. So, I use the 9" needles to knit socks. I have tried magic loop several time and could not remember which needle I need to pull to begin knitting with. Also, which way to turn needles around to begin again. But I think I have it know and I will keep playing this podcast over and over to start again. Thank you.
Thank you! I learned to do Magic Loop but hated it because managing that stiff cord is more trouble than it's worth. 2 circulars was better but your system is definitely the way to go. Slipper cuffs and baby bootees here I come!
There are cords that are much easier to use, for instance hiya hiya sharps have a swivel at the interchangeable end so it doesn't twist and the cord is thinner as well. Needles I've found make a big difference.happy knitting
I literally just thought I was too lazy to switch to dpns. (And then I started using it for everything). I am so happy I no longer have to fell ashamed about this.
Now that makes sense.
Good morning Girls. Love your podcast always. I have tried all methods of knitting needles. For socks I either knit with dpns or two 16 inch circulars. The only needles I don’t care to use are single pointed needles. You all have a great day. Happy knitting.
I just started using the magic loop and I love it! I'm using it for my second pair of socks!
I recently learnt circular knitting on straight needles and i am loving it
Oh man. I know magic lop is easy, but this is the first video that really made sense to me. Fantastic, clear explanation, and you two are really fun too! Loved it. Thanks!
I'm a new knitter, but already know I'm definitely a circular knitter. I do not want seems in my hats. I have tried magic loop and love it! Ironically I'm knitting the crown of a hat now on DPNs 😮
I'm so new, I thought Magic Loop was something different from what I'm doing. I also love this method, and 32" loop is my favorite too for hats and socks (only knit one pair of socks so far, working on the second pair, but I knit 10 baby hats last year that way). Great video!
I’ve tried all those methods and my preference is Magic Loop!
I started magic loop and two circulars with my Denise set. I can put the correct size so that I'm knitting onto it, and put a size down on the other end (that I'm knitting off) . I'm a firm knitter, and it makes it easier to get my needle in. If I make sure to use a set that is dyed for my knit on top, it's easy to keep it straight. Works for magic loop too! I like both, depending on my needle supply.
oh give me straight knitting needles every time ! can't be bothered trying to work with bits of wire hanging out all over the place !!
The 9" needles are perfect for continental knitters (like me) I never have to let go of the needle and I knit a sock super fast!
Bente Waag Love continental on the 9 inch needles. I want to try magic loop, but I really think I'll stick with my little minis.
Wondering if a 12" circular would give more 'ease' working in the round.....? I've got some in there.....will check it out.....
Hi, i’m looking to start knitting. Is a 16 inch circular needle good for socks??
can you use the 9 inch ones for sleeves?
Though I'm not a knitter (quilter and crochet), I LOVE watching you two sisters! I also like all of your accessories - mugs, shirts, etc. Do you offer those for sale?
I think I'm ready to try this now. It doesn't seem as scary. Thank you so much!❤️
I learned to knit socks on 2 circulars but I think I’ll give magic loop a try after watching you do it.
Wow I am starting to knit again but I loathe the dpn needles because I am always dropping stitches, creating holes and just frogging my work. Never again with this method my husband will finally get his beanie thanks so much ladies.
I love knitting socks on my 9" circs but I always end up making one sock bigger than the other or other similar mistakes so I prefer magic loop two at a time for that reason only. I know a lot people say their hands cramp and mine did at the beginning. It's just a learning curve.
I didn’t know how to use the magic loop .. But wow .. thank you .. it is so easy .. million THANK YOU .. I was totally doing wrong .. humbled.. so grateful 🙏🏻♥️🙏🏻
I loooove knitting two socks at a time with the magic loop method. No more one-sock syndrome for me!
Like my 9"circulars but mostly use 2 circulars, though will try magic loop at some stage to see how I like it 😀
Magic loop is by far my go to for socks. I use a 47” cable as I do two at a time. Enjoy your videos!
Chiaogoo 9" needles are wonderful and I would recommend them to anyone who wants to try 9" circulars. I think they aren't too small or fiddly. I try to knit magic loop more often but I always get some laddering.
laddering disappears if you just keep going, that only happens for the first couple of rounds, I like Chiagoo too but its so nice to be able to get both socks done at once, its really worth the time to try magic loop! If you need some good teachers let me know
I was going to comment this same thing! I always do my socks on 2 sets of Chaiogoo 9in, it's so fast!
I used to get laddering until I learned the right tension
Thank you ladies! I finally get it!!😁😁😁
You made me not afraid now to start my socks!!! Thank you.
Great video! I have felt more comfortable with DPN, however, I will give this magic loop a go.
Knitting is so hard. My friend spent a few days trying to teach me at work and I couldn't do it. I can do a back flip off the high diving board though.
Magic loop all the way!
Really helpful. Thanks
Hate DPNs. LOVE 9" circs for socks and even some sweater sleeves (also use 12" circs for those.)
I "magic loop" the body of my sweaters in the round-- I knit them using a 60" cable and change the exit point for the loop around from row to row, so there is never one place on the body where I am always changing needles. The advantage to this is I can try on as I go without switching the stitches to waste yarn or some other stitch holder.
Once I learned magic loop it was a game changer! ❤️😊
Same here!
Great video!
I’m a beginner and I didn’t understand the acronyms you use. I think you are both awesome. I’m hoping to learn more
I love magic loop ❤❤
I made my first pair of socks on dpns and it went okay. They actually came out the same size! Then my friend introduced me to 2 circulars. That was awesome. I did that for a while and then did 2 at a time on 2 circs. Nirvana! I took the leap to Magic Loop and got all tangled up.Maybe it gets better after a few rounds, but I found it very awkward to begin. After a time I got very frustrated and went back to 2 circulars. I think that's my home, but thanks for a nice demonstration!
It's so fascinating how different people are. When I decided I wanted to knit in the round, I tried DPNs first... and they were in the bin (that's the trash to you Americans 😉) after 10 minutes. Alas, I'm not a very patient learner. Fortunately, I was off and away with magic loop within minutes. I also use circulars for my flat knitting, which means I can use the same needles for everything.
You guys did great with these..I love Roxanne Richardson tuesdays tips but I equally enjoy you two ladies! So I get to watch two tutorials!!
I learned how to knit in the round using DPNs. I tried to learn how to knit socks on 2 circs, but I didn't like it. I knit my first pair of socks using magic loop, but I had pretty bad laddering where the loop was. So I tried 9 inch circs. That has been a pretty big learning curve, but I watched both Amber on the YarnHoarder podcast and Deborah on the meanwhileatthecastle podcast, and I learned how to knit with them and never looked back. I admit that I have small hands, so the short needles don't bother me at all using the Chiao Goo needles, which I believe are the longest of the 9 inch circs. Watching this episode I'm sure that I could have learned how to use the magic loop method and not get the ladders, but Amber's podcast about the 9 inch circs came out just then so I never gave it much of a try. I still enjoyed the episode though, I love you guys!
I only use the Chiaogoo 9" needles as well and I love them! I don't find working with them uncomfortable at all and they are great for knitting sleeves :)
this is good feedback because I'm deciding whether to get a 9 in circ to do a sock or finish with my DPNS. With the 9inch needle is there still a risk for laddering?
Jennifer Ann Fox None at all! I cast on DPNs and do the first row. Then I use the 9 in until I do the heel. I use DPNs for the heel and then go back to the 9 in until the toe. I finish with DPNs. It sounds like a lot of switching, but it really isn't. Some people don't need to use the DPNs, so you may not. I'm hoping it may change for me too.
Love magic loop! Glad to know I'm not the only one.
what is the name of the yarn and brand that you used on the magic loop method? it's gorgeous.
Since I found this technique, I can knit two socks at once ensuring I have both the same size. Wonderful. :)
I love dpns the most. I use 4 needles, not 5. I have the stitches on 3 needles and you use the 4th one to knit. I have tried magic loop twice now and I don't like having to turn it, push the stitches on the front needle and pull the back needle out. Too fiddly for me. I also sometimes use 9 inch circs.
Magic loop all the way! I tried with the 9inch circular and my gauge was all off, my first sock was much bigger and the second was smaller!!! Magic loop 2 at a time is my favorite way!! No second sock syndrome!
Nice video ladies. I still prefer my DPNs because the circular wire makes me nuts. Thank you very much for sharing - greatly appreciated and your video was easy for anyone to understand. Happy knitting!
I am a magic looper! Mom was a double point needle user.
Thanks for the video. I knit on dpn's mostly. Have tried the 9"circ but still have some problem with it. My hands get to hurting after a while.I have never tried Magic Loop and would love to sometime. Looks pretty easy.
I love magic loop. But for hat knitting I like needles with a short cable. Something like the 8“ needle you show in the video. It‘s faster for me. So a mix with shorties and magic loop 🙂
I thought that the magic loop method was just how you knit in the round.... I’d never heard of circular, or DPN for that... I’m learning so much today
For some reason I haven’t been able to knit socks from fingering weight yarn. I don’t know if it’s the small diameter needles or the yarn. I love my dpns but maybe magic loop is what I need for this. Thanks for the idea & inspiration!
I'm for 2 socks on 2-circs or magic loop at the same time all day long! I started way back when on DPNs mostly because the 2-circ method was super new at the time. I found the all those pointy end to be too fiddly, and my stitches kept falling off. My problem with 9-inch needles is that they are like stubby pencils. I don't like writing with them, why would I knit with them? But that's just me.
I like all the methods....depends on the situation. For example, I don't like TAAT on a plane....too much 'stuff' to manage. I definitely don't like flat knitting/seaming the sides because I hate purling. So I like Magic Loop and dpns....and use them according to my mood.