What is knitting in the round
Knitting in the round (also called circular knitting) is a technique where you knit continuously in circles without turning your work. The result is a seamless tube — hats, sleeves, socks, cowls. Stockinette stitch is created using only knit stitches (you don't need to purl back rows).
Tools for knitting in the round
Circular needles
Two short needle tips connected by a cable. The cable length determines the minimum circumference — 40 cm for hats, 80–100 cm for sweaters. The most comfortable method for medium and large projects.
Double-pointed needles (DPNs)
A set of 4–5 short needles with points on both ends. You distribute stitches across 3–4 needles and knit with the fifth. Traditional method for small circumferences (socks, mittens, fingers).
Magic loop
One long circular needle (80–100 cm) for knitting small circumferences. You divide stitches into two halves, pull the cable out in the gap and knit alternating between one half and the other. Universal — replaces both DPNs and short circulars.
How to join in the round
Step 1: Cast on the required number of stitches onto a circular needle.
Step 2: Check that stitches are not twisted — all "V"s must point downward, no stitch should be twisted over the cable.
Step 3: Place a stitch marker on the right needle (marks the beginning of round). Knit the first stitch — this joins the round.
Tip for clean join: Cast on 1 extra stitch. When joining, move the last stitch from right needle to left needle and knit it together with the first stitch. The join will be invisible.
When to use what
| Project | Method | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Hat | 40 cm circular needle | Comfortable, sufficient circumference |
| Sweater (body) | 80 cm circular needle | Large circumference |
| Socks | DPNs or magic loop | Small circumference |
| Mittens / fingers | DPNs | Very small circumference |
| Universal | Magic loop | One needle for everything |
Advantages of knitting in the round
No seam — finished item has no seam. More comfortable to wear, cleaner appearance.
Only knit stitches — stockinette stitch is created using only knit stitches. You don't need to purl back rows.
Fair isle is easier — you always see the right side and pattern. On straight needles you must read the pattern backwards on wrong side rows.
Common problems
Twisted cast-on — most common mistake. If the round is twisted when joining, it cannot be fixed. You must unravel and start over. Always check before joining.
Ladders — visible gaps at transitions between needles (with DPNs). Solution: tighten the first 2 stitches after moving to a new needle and regularly shift the transition point.
