knitting the magic loop

I recently picked up a sweater pattern that required use of 2 sizes of needles, each with 3 sets. It required double points, long circulars, and medium length circulars. I have a lot of needles already in my kit, but only had about 2 of the correct size and length. This particular pattern only required the different lengths do accomodate different sizes of circular knitting.

magic loop knitting

This is when I decided to investigate the magic loop method. I had heard of this method before, as a way to avoid using double points. Since I am comfortable using double points, I never investigated it before. I am currently using it to knit a hat. So far I have found that it works really well. The only thing I've had to be careful of is the tension between the two halves when switching over. If you don't pull them tight enough, you get the same gap that can occur between the first and last stitch when using double points. If you pull too tightly, it makes the work look like there is a seam on each side. However, for larger works, like sweaters, this shouldn't be a problem in places where there is normally a seam anyway, or in places where it will be hidden.

I still need to look into the sweater pattern further to make sure of the needles I will need. But this could be a great money saver for those not looking to splash out on loads of needles, especially if they are sizes you are not likely to use very often.