One of the most common challenges knitters face is what to do with leftover yarn after finishing a project. If you’ve subscribed to a knitting box, chances are you’re receiving curated kits with high-quality yarn that’s just too good to waste.
Instead of letting your leftover yarn sit unused, there are plenty of creative and practical ways to make the most out of it. Here are some ideas for transforming those leftovers into something new and exciting.
Keychains and Bag Charms
If you’re looking for something simple and fun, try making keychains or bag charms. Using just a small amount of leftover yarn, you can create cute tassels, pom-poms, or mini crochet amigurumi to attach to your keys, bags, or zippers.
These are great gifts for friends and family or a way to personalise your accessories.
Stripe or Colour Block Items
If you have several leftover yarns from different subscription boxes, you can combine them to create a larger item with a fun and eclectic design.
Consider making striped blankets, scarves, or shawls by switching colours as you go. Colour-blocking is another technique that works wonderfully with leftover yarn and can give your project a unique and modern look.
Knit in a Box offers knitting kits for every project; check out the link if you want to start a subscription.
Yarn Pom-Poms
Pom-poms are another simple craft project that can use up small amounts of leftover yarn. You can make pom-poms to decorate hats, scarves, blankets, or even use them as festive ornaments.
They’re fun to make, and the colourful results add a playful touch to almost anything.
Practice New Techniques
If you’ve received some yarn in your knitting subscription box that you’re not sure how to use, leftover yarn is perfect for practicing new knitting techniques.
Whether you’re trying to master lacework, cables, or colourwork, using up scraps gives you the chance to experiment without the pressure of completing a full project.
Plus, you can learn new skills and build your confidence for bigger projects down the line.
Swatch Samples
Swatching is an important part of knitting, but it doesn’t always require a huge amount of yarn. Use your leftover yarn to knit small swatches for practice or to test out patterns before committing to a larger project.
It’s a great way to make sure the yarn works with your chosen design, and it doesn’t require wasting your precious supplies.
Pet Toys
Leftover yarn can be turned into fun and inexpensive toys for your pets. You can easily braid it into ropes for dogs, or create soft, yarn-based toys for cats.
Your furry friends will love playing with these homemade creations, and you’ll have put your leftover yarn to good use.
Crafts with Children
Kids love colourful crafts, so why not use your yarn scraps for art projects? You can teach children how to make simple yarn crafts like friendship bracelets, yarn dolls, or yarn paintings.
It’s a fun and engaging way to share your love of knitting while keeping them entertained.
Coasters and Pot Holders
Knitting small, practical items like coasters or pot holders is a great way to use leftover yarn. They’re simple to make, functional, and add a personal touch to your kitchen or living room.
You can make matching sets for a coordinated look or mix and match colours for a more eclectic vibe.
Information You Need Before Starting a Knitting Subscription
The Type
Often, there are various types of knitting subscriptions you can choose from. For example, this might be for children’s clothing and toys or it could be for women’s jumpers.
You want to ensure you’re selecting a subscription that you’ll enjoy and that will create useful items for your lifestyle.
The Price
Of course, you always want to know what the price is going to be per box. You need to ensure it’s affordable and value for money. So, before signing up, make sure you know what it’s going to cost.
Some companies give you an introductory price or even a free box to begin with. You need to know the price moving forward if you persist with the subscription.
The Delivery Date
Generally, you’re going to receive your box on the same day every month. But, it’s worth checking when this is so you know whether it suits your lifestyle.
Most companies will give you this information and might even allow you to choose the frequency and delivery date.
The Items
Every provider can be slightly different with what they give you in each box. There are some that will provide you with the bare minimum, such as the pattern.
But, there are others that are more generous and give you a complete box, with everything from the yarn to the needles. Know what you’re paying for to avoid disappointment.
Conclusion
Leftover yarn doesn’t have to sit in a corner gathering dust. Whether you’re looking to make something new, experiment with new techniques, or give back to your community, there are countless ways to put your yarn scraps to good use.
From small accessories and creative home decor to charitable donations, your leftovers can become a treasure trove of possibilities. Get creative, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box!
