Introduction

Joining in the round is an essential technique for circular knitting and crochet projects. It allows you to create seamless and continuous rounds without any visible seams or gaps. In this guide, we will show you how to join in the round using different methods for both knitting and crochet.

Knitting

Method 1: Using a Circular Needle

One of the most common ways to join in the round for knitting is by using a circular needle. Here are the steps:

1. Cast on the required number of stitches onto your circular needle.
2. Make sure that your stitches are not twisted and that the working yarn is at the back of your work.
3. Slide the stitches to the other end of the needle, so that the first stitch is next to the last stitch.
4. Take your working yarn and knit the first stitch, making sure to pull the yarn tightly to close any gaps.
5. You have now joined in the round and can continue knitting in a spiral.

Method 2: Using Double-Pointed Needles

Another way to join in the round for knitting is by using double-pointed needles. Here are the steps:

1. Cast on the required number of stitches onto one of your double-pointed needles.
2. Divide the stitches evenly onto three or four needles, depending on the number of stitches you have cast on.
3. Make sure that your stitches are not twisted and that the working yarn is at the back of your work.
4. Hold the needles in your left hand and use another needle to knit the first stitch on the first needle.
5. Continue knitting across the stitches on the first needle, then move on to the next needle and repeat until you have knit all the stitches.
6. You have now joined in the round and can continue knitting in a spiral.

Crochet

Method 1: Using a Slip Stitch

One of the most common ways to join in the round for crochet is by using a slip stitch. Here are the steps:

1. Make a slip knot and chain the required number of stitches.
2. Make sure that your stitches are not twisted and that the working yarn is at the back of your work.
3. Insert your hook into the first chain stitch and make a slip stitch, pulling the yarn tightly to close any gaps.
4. You have now joined in the round and can continue crocheting in a spiral.

Method 2: Using a Standing Stitch

Another way to join in the round for crochet is by using a standing stitch. Here are the steps:

1. Make a slip knot and hold it in your left hand.
2. Insert your hook into the first stitch and make a standing stitch, either a single crochet or a double crochet depending on your pattern.
3. You have now joined in the round and can continue crocheting in a spiral.

Conclusion

Joining in the round is a simple but essential technique for circular knitting and crochet projects. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily join in the round using different methods for both knitting and crochet. With this skill, you can create seamless and continuous rounds without any visible seams or gaps.