A method of generating a helical magnetic configuration by using helical electromagnets is described. This new method might open the way towards constructing large stellarators by using circular planar coils and electromagnets for the helical field. Since the rotational transform generated by this method is free from the deformation factor of a shaped ferromagnetic wall, it can be controlled by varying currents in the magnetization coils of the helical electromagnets, a control impossible in the case of a ferromak. The application of this method to modular stellarators is discussed. The advantage of a combination of modular coils with ferromagnetic material is also noted.