How do you knit with a ring knitting loom? This is one of the most common questions among people who are getting into knitting and are looking for a simpler and more intuitive alternative to traditional needles. Knitting with a loom, also known as loom knitting, is an accessible technique that allows you to achieve neat and even results, even without prior experience.
This method is especially appreciated by those who want to approach knitting gradually, by people who struggle with needles, or simply by anyone looking for a faster and more relaxing way to create handmade projects.
In this guide we will mainly look at how to knit with a ring or circular knitting loom, the other types of looms available, what you can make with them, which yarns to use, and how to get started step by step.
Index
- 1. Types and sizes of knitting looms
- 2. What you can make by knitting with a loom
- 3. Which yarns to use for loom knitting
- 4. How to knit with a circular loom: basic tutorial
- 5. Video tutorial: knitting with a circular loom
- 6. Difference between rectangular and circular looms in knitting
1. Types and sizes of knitting looms
To knit with a loom, there are different types of tools available, mainly distinguished by shape, size, and distance between the pegs. Each characteristic affects stitch definition and the type of project you can create.
Knitting looms are often sold in sets, allowing you to experiment with multiple projects using a single tool.
Ring knitting looms
Round knitting looms are ideal for continuous circular projects. They are especially suitable for hats, beanies, cowls, and tubular items, as they allow you to work without seams.
Rectangular knitting looms
Rectangular knitting looms allow you to work back and forth in a linear motion. They are perfect for classic scarves, headbands, textile panels, patchwork blankets, and projects that require a flat surface.
Discover rectangular knitting looms
2. What you can make by knitting with a loom
Knitting with a loom offers a wide range of creative possibilities. It is suitable for both simple projects and more structured pieces, also ideal for home décor and handmade gifts.
- Knitted hats and beanies
- Scarves and cowls
- Headbands and fashion accessories
- Blankets and throws, including patchwork styles
- Decorative panels and small home accessories
Many makers choose this technique to create easy and repeatable knitting projects, ideal for small-batch or artisanal production.
3. Which yarns to use for loom knitting
One of the most important aspects for achieving good results is choosing the right yarn. When knitting with a loom, it is recommended to use soft, durable yarns with good volume.
Recommended yarn: Kozi Wool 100g
Kozi Wool 100g is particularly suitable for this type of work. Its structure allows the stitches to remain clearly visible while maintaining elasticity and a comfortable feel.
Alternatively, you can explore other yarns suitable for this technique in our dedicated section.
If you are also interested in other textile techniques, you can learn more by reading our guide on yarns for the tufting technique .
4. How to knit with a circular loom: basic tutorial
In this tutorial we focus mainly on knitting with ring looms, as this is the simplest method and perfect for beginners. Later in this article, we will also explain the main differences when using rectangular looms. In the future, we plan to create a dedicated tutorial for those as well.
Below you’ll find how to knit with a ring loom in a simple and practical way.
Prepare the loom
Choose the loom that best suits your project and secure the end of the yarn to the first (outer) peg, leaving a small tail.
Wrap the yarn
Wrap the yarn around the pegs one by one, keeping an even tension without pulling too tightly.
Create the stitch
Using the hook, lift the lower loop over the upper loop and place it back on the peg to form the basic stitch.
Lower the completed stitches
Once all pegs have been worked, gently push the completed stitches down with your fingers to make room for wrapping a new round of yarn.
Continue knitting
Repeat the last three steps until you reach the desired length.
Finish the work
Carefully remove the stitches from the loom and finish off the edge to secure your project.
5. Video tutorial: knitting with a circular loom
A video tutorial is often the best way to visually understand the movements and how a round knitting loom works.
Click the image to watch the video
6. Difference between rectangular and circular looms in knitting
When learning how to knit with a loom, it is important to understand the difference between a rectangular loom and a circular loom, as the knitting method changes significantly.
The circular loom is worked continuously, wrapping the yarn around all the pegs in a circular motion. This type of knitting creates a seamless, tubular fabric, ideal for hats, beanies, cowls, and projects that do not require a clear beginning or end.
The rectangular loom, on the other hand, is worked back and forth, moving from one row of pegs to the other. The yarn is wrapped in one direction and then brought back, similar to traditional needle knitting. This method produces a flat fabric panel, perfect for classic scarves, textile panels, patchwork blankets, and projects that require a square or regular surface.
In short, the main difference lies in the movement of the knitting: circular and continuous on a round loom, linear and bidirectional on a rectangular loom. The choice depends on the type of project you want to make.
Now that you know how to knit with a loom, you can explore the world of textile crafts and discover new tools, yarns, and creative techniques.
