Learning how to knit in the round opens up a whole new world of knitting possibilities. From cozy hats and cowls to seamless sweaters and socks, circular knitting allows you to create tubular pieces without seams. Unlike flat knitting, where you work back and forth on straight needles, knitting in the round lets you knit continuously in a spiral, giving your project a clean and professional finish.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to knit in the round using the right tools, techniques, and tips to help you master this skill—even if you’re a complete beginner.
What Is Knitting in the Round?
Knitting in the round is a technique where you use circular or double-pointed needles to knit in a continuous loop, rather than turning your work at the end of each row. This results in a seamless tube of fabric, which is ideal for projects like hats, socks, mittens, sleeves, and cowls.
Tools You’ll Need to Knit in the Round
Before you begin learning how to knit in the round, make sure you have the right supplies:
- Circular Needles – These have two needle tips connected by a flexible cable. They come in various lengths and sizes to suit different projects.
- Double-Pointed Needles (DPNs) – These are used for smaller diameter projects like socks or the tops of hats.
- Stitch Marker – Place this at the beginning of your round to keep track of where each round starts.
- Yarn – Use any yarn weight that matches your pattern or preference. Beginners often start with worsted weight yarn.
How to Knit in the Round with Circular Needles
If you’re making something like a hat or a cowl, circular needles are your best option. Here’s how to knit in the round using circular needles:
Step 1: Cast On
Cast on the required number of stitches onto one of the circular needle tips. Be careful not to twist the stitches when joining.
Step 2: Join in the Round
To join your work in the round, slide all the stitches down toward the cable, making sure they face the same direction. Place a stitch marker on the right needle tip to mark the beginning of the round.
Now bring the working yarn over the right needle tip and begin knitting the first stitch from the left needle. This connects your work into a continuous loop.
Step 3: Start Knitting
Continue knitting around the circle, moving your stitch marker each time you complete a round so you always know where it begins.
Step 4: Bind Off
When your project reaches the desired length, bind off as usual, making sure your tension is even to avoid tight or loose edges.
How to Knit in the Round with Double-Pointed Needles
For smaller items like socks, mittens, or baby hats, double-pointed needles (DPNs) are ideal.
Step 1: Cast On
Divide the total number of stitches evenly among three or four DPNs. Use the fifth needle to knit with.
Step 2: Join in the Round
Arrange the needles into a triangle or square, depending on how many you’re using. Make sure your stitches are not twisted. Join by knitting the first stitch from the left needle using the free needle.
Step 3: Knit Around
Work in the round by continuously knitting from one needle to the next, using the free needle to knit and rotating it as you go.
Step 4: Place a Marker
It helps to use a removable stitch marker or a safety pin to mark the beginning of the round when using DPNs.
Step 5: Bind Off
When you’re done, bind off just like you would with circular needles, then weave in the ends.
Tips for Success When Learning How to Knit in the Round
- Check for Twisting: Always double-check that your stitches are not twisted before you join in the round. A twist will ruin your project and you’ll have to start over.
- Use the Right Needle Length: If your circular needle is too long for your project, it will be hard to join and knit. Choose a cable length that matches the circumference of your item.
- Practice the Magic Loop Method: If you don’t have the right needle size or length, you can use a long circular needle and the Magic Loop technique to knit small items in the round.
- Count Your Stitches: Keep an eye on your stitch count to avoid accidentally adding or dropping stitches.
- Mark the Beginning: Always use a stitch marker to help you keep track of where each round begins.
Benefits of Knitting in the Round
Learning how to knit in the round comes with many advantages:
- No Seams: Since you’re knitting in a spiral, there’s no need to seam pieces together later.
- Faster Knitting: You only work the right side of the fabric, so no purl rows are necessary unless you’re working a pattern.
- Smooth Finish: Your finished project looks cleaner and more polished.
- Versatility: From accessories to garments, you can knit almost anything in the round.
Common Projects That Use Knitting in the Round
Once you’ve mastered how to knit in the round, try one of these beginner-friendly projects:
- Basic ribbed hat
- Simple infinity scarf or cowl
- Baby beanie
- Fingerless gloves
- Tubular headband
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to knit in the round is a game-changer for any knitter. It might feel awkward at first, especially handling circular or double-pointed needles, but with a little practice, it becomes second nature. Whether you’re working on a cozy winter hat or diving into sweater-making, knitting in the round gives you flexibility, efficiency, and beautiful, seamless results.
Start small, follow your pattern carefully, and before long, you’ll be knitting in the round like a pro.