How to Add Yarn in a Crochet Project
The ability to crochet allows an individual to make afghans, sweaters, baby items, tote bags and many other useful items. If you crochet often, eventually you will need to add a new strand of yarn because the skein ran out, or it is necessary to add a new color in the craft project. Learning how to add colors in the correct way enables the project to look professional once the craft is completed.
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Instructions
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Crochet across the row until you have only two loops left on the crochet hook. Although you can add a new color or skein of yarn at any point, doing it at the end of the row gives the item a more professional appearance. It is important to have 3 or 4 inches of the old yarn hanging down when you add a new yarn color or skein.
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Wrap the new yarn over the crochet hook so that 3 or 4 inches of the new yarn hangs down behind the crochet project. Do this from the back of the item to the front. The yarn connected to the new skein is positioned closest to you.
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Work the yarn through the next two loops on the crochet hook. Use the crochet stitch that is appropriate for the pattern you are using.
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Pull on the old yarn snugly to keep it from slipping out of the crocheted item, and to tighten the stitch.
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Remove the last loop from the crochet hook.
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Slide the crochet hook into the top of the last stitch down through the middle of the stitch.
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Grab the old yarn with the hook on the end of the crochet hook.
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Bring the end of the old yarn up through the crochet stitch with the hook.
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Insert the crochet hook back through the loop, and start the next row according to the pattern directions.
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Tips & Warnings
Some people believe it is more efficient to tie a knot when adding a new skein of yarn or a new color. This is not a wise practice. The knot may work its way around to the front of the crocheted item and show the knot, or it may untie during use, creating a hole in the garment.
Crocheted items make cherished gifts that the recipient appreciates even more because of the time and effort that went into making the item. If you intend to give the item as a gift, include instructions to wash the crocheted item, to ensure the gift lasts the person a long time. Follow the wash and care directions on the skein of yarn, or instruct the person to wash delicate garments in a mesh laundry bag on the gentle cycle for the best results.
References
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