Join Yarn with a Magic Knot

The magic knot is a great way to join yarn. It’s secure and it’s another way to avoid having to weave in ends.

Some things to consider about the magic knot:

it’s NOT for precise changes in color
it’s great for yarn that can take a little pulling
if your yarn can’t withstand a lot of pulling, you can still use this join but you have to be more careful when pulling at the knot (Step 5)
it can work well for socks but I do suggest you avoid placing the knot under your foot. I made that mistake once and I could feel a tiny pebble in my sock.

Video

If you prefer watching a video, we have one here for you as well!

Materials

new yarn
scissors

Note what I’m not saying – a darning needle. You don’t need one for this method!

Ok – lets get started.

After step 3, knot it.

Repeat steps 2 and 3 with the other tail and also knot it.

When you’re done you’ll have this.

Now comes the fun part

Step 4: Grab each yarn from the part coming from the ball and slide the knots together.

Step 5: Test the knot by pulling tightly at it. It shouldn’t fail. If it does, something wasn’t done right with your knots. Do it again.

Step 6: Once it’s passed the pull test, trim the tails very close to the knot.

When you’re done, pull again to make sure you didn’t mistakenly cut the knot itself. Now you’re ready to work with your newly joined yarn.

One suggestion – I would try to place the knot at the back of your work and avoid any section that people will be drawn to. Whenever possible, the knot should go in between two stitches when working it. You may need to slightly adjust your tension to make this happen.

While this isn’t required, I find it looks more polished when the knot is at the back of your work.

What it looks like

Here’s a look after a few rows have been knit.

Don’t let all the steps discourage you. I gave you a lot of details but this join goes quickly once you get the hang of it and remember – no ends to weave in. Once it’s done, it’s done and you’ll be hard-pressed to find it if you’re joining another ball of the same color.

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About the Instructor: Jody Richards

Jody is the founder and lead editor of Knotions. She loves poring over stitch dictionaries and trying out new stitches. And while she likes all things crafting (well ok, except that one thing), yarn crafts are her true love (and she has the stash to prove it).

She’s a serial starter-of-projects and has a serious problem with finishing things without a deadline.

And don’t get her talking about hand-dyed yarns. You’ve been warned.