There is a lot of interest from knitters (and crocheters) right now in creating projects from stash yarns. Using what you already have can be a great way to knit sustainably and save money (not to mention make space for new yarns!). It also can inspire creativity. Some of my favorite projects have been made with stash yarn. Here are 3 ideas for using stash yarn for projects.
- Try stripes or gradients. Stripes and gradients the obvious choice for using leftovers or single skeins to create a larger project. If you’re not a fan of bold stripes or gradients, you can soften the effect by creating a fade (see Andrea Mowry’s fade collection), or by holding a strand of another yarn (mohair anyone?) in a single color along with your stripe yarns.
- Or colorwork. Stranded colorwork is a great way to use those odd bits of yarn left over from other projects. The March Flower Mitts are a great way to use up small amounts of scrap yarn. Slipped stitch or mosaic patterns can also be a good way to work with multiple colors. You can even try making a magic ball, as in this pattern (Ravelry link).
- Make it a set. I almost always have left overs from a skein of sock yarn. When my son was young, I would use the rest to make a pair of toddler-size socks. Now that he’s grown (and his feet are bigger than mine!) I can use up my extras by making a second pair with another yarn as the main color. If you have leftovers from a sweater, try making a matching hat or cowl, or even a matching dog sweater!
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