9 Minutes To Magic Loop!

Jimmy Beans is a yarn store and brand that offers a variety of knitting resources, including a 9-minute YouTube video that demonstrates a technique for knitting in the round using only a single long circular needle. This technique, also known as magic loop, is a wonderful alternative to using double-pointed needles (dpns) for small diameter circular knitting.

The video guides the viewer through the process step by step, making it easy to follow and understand. It is designed for knitters of all skill levels, including beginners who are new to knitting in the round. The video provides detailed instructions, including tips and tricks, to make the process as smooth and easy as possible.

The magic loop technique is a great option for knitters who find themselves without dpns, as it can be used in an emergency situation. It’s also a good option for knitters who find dpns fiddly, or who prefer the feel of a circular needle. This technique allows knitters to knit small diameter circular projects, such as socks, sleeves, and hats, without the need for multiple double-pointed needles.

Overall, Jimmy Beans’ 9-minute YouTube video on the magic loop technique is a valuable resource for knitters who want to learn an alternative method for knitting in the round, or for those who may find themselves in an emergency situation without dpns. It is a clear and easy to follow video that can help knitters to master this technique and improve their knitting skills.

You can access the video here

I don’t often share knitting patterns for pets, mostly because I don’t think of it. I don’t have a dog, and I’ve never knit for my cats except a knit couch and a little cat bed I made on a knitting machine, both of which were pretty much ignored.

I have shared some pet bed knitting patterns, and both hats and sweaters for dogs.

But I don’t think I’ve shared a pattern for a cat sweater, until now.

This one is the Bunny sweater by Sarah Zhou, so named because her cat is named Bunny, of course.

It’s a made to measure pattern because cats come in all shapes and sizes, and you can also use any yarn you like and whatever gauge you are getting with that yarn.

The design is knit from the bottom up, that is, from the tail side up toward the head. Pairs of decreases shape the body as you work toward the armholes, which are made by binding off a few stitches. Then the belly and the back are worked flat, then joined and worked in the round for the chest part.

There are some design options in the pattern, from the look of the photos they include using a contrasting color for the edging, working a scalloped edging, maybe a foldover collar? But of course you can add your own embellishments, stripes, make it in team colors or for a Halloween costume. I’m sure they’re quick to knit so you can make a bunch if you have a cat who is willing to submit to such torture.

Bunny looks like a very good and mostly tolerant girl; I don’t think either of my cats would be willing to wear a sweater. But if you make one (the pattern is available on Ravelry) and successfully get your cat to wear it I would love to hear about it!

[Photo: Sarah Zhou]

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