How to Change Yarn in Crochet

When crocheting, yarn may have to be changed for several reasons, including coming to the end of the skein, or changing colors. Changing yarn can be a tricky maneuver, especially if you want to avoid having a knot. This is especially important if you are changing yarn in the middle of a row. Knots at the ends of rows can be hidden fairly easily, but knots in the middle of a row can damage the appearance of a piece. Weaving in ends is a good alternative to knotting, as it secures the yarn, without affecting the look of the object.

Things You'll Need

• Crochet work in progress
• Crochet hook
• New skein of yarn

Instructions

1. Crochet until you have about 6 inches of yarn left, or until the end of the last full row for which you have enough yarn. Some people prefer to change yarn only at the end of a row, but you can change it in the middle. Some patterns require changing yarn in the middle of a row due to color changes.

2. Leave the last two loops of your last stitch on the hook, regardless of which stitch you are using.

3. Hold the new yarn about 6 inches from the end. It may help for stability to hold the new yarn with the old yarn end. Complete the stitch, using the new yarn.

4. Avoid weaving in the ends later by working the next several stitches over both the old and new yarn ends. Hold the ends parallel with the top of the stitches you are about to work over. Pull the new yarn in from behind the ends, and then reach over the ends to complete the stitch. This encases the ends in the new stitches. Continue working over the ends until they are completely covered.

References

• Crochet Kitten - Changing Yarn