There is a very basic math problem used to know how many stitches to place per round when crocheting a simple circle. By simple circle, I mean the same stitch is used throughout. Unfortunately, there is no true method when you change stitches within your project, as each creates a different size. However, this same equation can at least help you as a starting point, along with some trial-and-error, to creating a beautiful mandala or other circular design of your own.
No matter how many stitches you start with in your first round, the equation will stay the same. And it doesn’t matter what type of stitch you use, again, as long as it is the same stitch throughout. I have a preference to numbers that are even, easy to calculate, and can be divisible in multiple ways. For amigurumi, I usually start with 6. For my blankets and circular vests, I usually start with 12.
In math terms, the equation would be a * b = c
a being the number of stitches you began with. This number never changes. b being the number of round that you are working on. And c being the total number of stitches needed for that round.
So, if you start with 12 DC in your first round, round 2 would be 24 DC (12 * 2 = 24), round 3 would be 36 DC (12 * 3 = 36), round 4 would be 48 DC (12 * 4 = 48), so on and so on. It’s that easy!!
But wait!! Where do you add your increases in each round? Part of this is personal preference. I prefer to add my increases at the end of each “section”; some prefer to add it to the beginning. The easiest way to explain a “section” is the number of stitches that represent the round below.
If your starting round has 12 stitches:
| round 2 | 1 stitch = 1 section | increase in each stitch | 24 stitches total |
| round 3 | 2 stitches = 1 section | increase in 2nd stitch | 36 stitches total |
| round 4 | 3 stitches = 1 section | increase in 3rd stitch | 48 stitches total |
| round 5 | 4 stitches = 1 section | increase in 4th stitch | 60 stitches total |
| round 6 | 5 stitches = 1 section | increase in 5th stitch | 72 stitches total |
I would highly suggest that before you begin, you have your rounds with numbers of stitches needed and increase placement written down in front of you. It is too easy to lose track, especially if you have to put your work down for a day or two.
One other little tip: If your circle starts to look too straight on the edges (like a hexagon) , alter the placement of your increases in each section every other round or so.
