How to Use Remnant Yarn
If you knit or crochet, chances are you have a stash of yarn remnants left over from previous projects that you don't know how to use. Rather than throwing them out, consider some of the following crafts ideas for using those bits and pieces of yarn.
Instructions
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Organize your yarn remnants into categories, according to fiber content and weight. If you are going to make a blanket or sweater vest, use compatible fiber content so it won't get crazy when you wash it.
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Knit bookmarks by casting on 15 or 20 stitches, depending on the weight of the yarn, and knit across each row. Make it as long as you want, and consider using different stitch patterns to make it interesting. A tassel added to the end gives it a little weight and hangs out the bottom of the book. Crochet works just as well for these bookmarks.
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Crochet granny squares, or knit blocks and join them with crochet, to make afghans. The designs can vary, but the squares are much easier to join if they are the same size. Be creative when you are choosing the stitch patterns for added texture and interest.
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Think about creating washcloths from your remnants of cotton yarns. A simple knit or crochet pattern worked in a tight stitch makes them absorbent.
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Consider using your yarn remnants for craft ideas. Make sewing cards by cutting shapes from heavy poster board and punching holes around the edges. Little ones can learn to sew by using a threaded tapestry needle to work the yarn in and out of the holes. Keep bits of novelty and eyelash yarns to decorate cards or scrapbooks. Use your leftover worsted weight yarn to make hair for homemade cloth dolls.
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Roll your balls of yarn up and fill a basket with them to donate to nursing homes. Many older residents have crocheted or knitted all of their lives and have many ideas for using remnants of yarn, and it'll be interesting to see what ideas they have.
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Check out the books available, such as "Oddball Knitting" by Barbara Albright, which contains ideas and patterns for small projects using yarn remnants. There are also many free patterns available on Internet sites such as frugalhaus.com.
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