How to Crochet With Tape Yarn

Put your crochet skills to work with tape yarn.

Tape yarn, also called ribbon yarn, doesn't really resemble yarn at all. It more accurately resembles ribbon or tape, which is how it gets its name. It is made of thin fibers woven together to make a flat "noodle" of yarn; usually it comes in a rainbow of variegated colors, and it is very lightweight. The weight and texture of tape yarn makes it ideal for warm-weather projects.

Things You'll Need

• Crochet hook
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Use a larger than usual crochet hook like a U.S. size K or L. Tape yarn is lightweight, but it works similarly to a bulky yarn. Using a larger crochet hook will allow your stitches to have room and also show off the unique properties of the tape yarn. If you make your stitches too small using a smaller hook, the tape yarn will simply twist up on itself and it won't show off its colors well.

2. Crochet loose-fitting items. Tape yarn isn't overly flexible, so it isn't suited for fitted garments like socks or sweaters. Instead, use tape yarn for lightweight, warm-weather scarves or shawls. Crochet with an open stitch pattern, such as double or triple crochet stitching, to show off the yarn and give it room to fit inside the stitches. Tight stitches like single crochet are too constricting for yarn that has so much structure of its own.

3. Add fringe to your finished creations. When you finish a scarf or a shawl with tape yarn, add some fringe to the ends. This will serve two purposes. First, it will hide any odd or uneven edges your piece may have as a result of the natural twisting and turning of the tape yarn. Second, it will show off the fluid quality of the tape yarn.

Tips & Warnings

• If the cut ends of your tape yarn start to fray, paint them with a thin layer of clear nail polish.

References

• Adventures of the Mad Crocheter: Ribbon Yarn and Other Hazards
• YarnSupply.com: Knitting and Crocheting Glossary