37+ Patterns To Use Up Your Yarn Stash (Small Projects)

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This post shows 37 patterns to use up your yarn stash, including patterns for small knitting projects.

We makers have a never-ending love for yarn and definitely buy a lot of it.

We have special yarn for upcoming projects, the yarn we think will make a cute sweater, a cool hat, or a pretty pair of gloves.

Yarn Stash

37+ Patterns To Use Up Your Yarn Stash (Includes Small Knitting Projects)

Stash busting patterns including both knitting and crochet patterns.

Scrap yarn projects and small knitting projects are included as well as larger projects that you can make.

Use Up Those Leftover Yarns

We all have balls, skeins, and scraps of yarn left over from previous projects that we don’t know what to do with but never want to throw away. 

If your yarn collection is bursting and you can’t justify buying new yarn right now, it’s time to bust your stash!

Starting from your yarn leftovers, those one skein wonders, and any other yarn you have going spare.

Patterns to use up your yarn stash (small knitting projects)

Shop My Stash

The scraps of yarn and oddballs in your stash can become beautiful knits or crocheted items.

You can combine all your leftover yarn together or a part of it depending on the pattern and make one big project like a striped crochet afghan, a temperature blanket, or a colorful baby blanket.

All of us knitters and crocheters have a yarn stash just waiting to be used.

yarn swift and skeins

What Can You Do With Leftover Yarn?

You can use it to create large-scale projects like scarves, throws, or rugs as well as create a lot of small knitting projects

There are a lot of scrap yarn projects you can choose from for both knitting and crocheting, including;

You can make pretty much everything with the leftover scraps of yarn in your stash.

woman crocheting with yarn from her yarn stash

What Can I Knit With Leftover Sock Yarn?

Also, if you love making socks, you probably have a lot of sock yarn leftovers to use up.

Sock yarn is often a blend of fibers that make the finished fabric more durable so all your new projects will be long-lasting.

You can make a variety of knits using sock yarn, including;

  • Colorful shawls.
  • Striped blankets.
  • Crochet granny squares.
  • Striped gloves.
  • Bookmarks.
  • Scrappy socks.
scrappy yarn knitted socks

How Do You Use Yarn Scraps?

Bust your stash and make awesome small or large knitting or crochet projects.

You can use up all your leftovers and scraps of yarn that have been sitting in your collection.

You can utilize yarn that would have never been used otherwise to make gifts for your friends and family and open up space in your stash for new yarn.

Take a look below at the round-up of patterns and find your next project.

grey yarn in yarn stash

What Little Things Can You Knit?

Knitting small projects is a delightful way to use up leftover yarn, practice new techniques, or make quick gifts.

Here are some charming little things you can knit, perfect for beginners and experienced knitters alike:

  1. Coasters: Simple and practical, knitted coasters are great for trying out new stitch patterns or colorwork techniques.
  2. Dishcloths/Washcloths: These are perfect for practicing knitting basics and make wonderful gifts, especially when paired with fancy soap or spa items.
  3. Headbands/Ear Warmers: Knit a stylish headband or ear warmer to keep warm during the colder months. These can be made simple or can include cable knit patterns for added texture.
  4. Keychains: Use small bits of yarn to create colorful and unique keychains. Incorporate beads or tassels for extra flair.
  5. Fingerless Gloves: These are relatively quick to knit and are very practical. They’re great for keeping hands warm while allowing for mobility.
  6. Baby Booties: A classic knitted item, baby booties are a sweet and quick project, perfect for expecting parents or as a baby shower gift.
  7. Bookmarks: Thin, delicate bookmarks can be knitted using lightweight yarn. They make thoughtful gifts for book lovers.
  8. Amigurumi/Small Toys: Knit up some cute creatures or toys. While traditionally more common in crochet, there are plenty of knitting patterns for adorable amigurumi.
  9. Cup Cozies: A quick knit to keep your coffee or tea warm, cup cozies are practical and make great gifts, especially when paired with a favorite mug.
  10. Pincushions: Useful for sewers and quilters, knitted pincushions can be as simple or as elaborate as you like.
  11. Flowers and Leaves: Knitted flowers and leaves can be used as appliqués, brooches, or decorations. They’re also a great way to practice shaping techniques.
  12. Scrunchies: With the resurgence of 90s fashion, knitted scrunchies are back in style. Use velvet or bulky yarn for a plush feel.
  13. Lavender Sachets: Small knitted squares or pouches filled with lavender or other herbs make lovely drawer or closet fresheners.
  14. Jewelry: Bracelets, necklaces, or earrings can be knitted with thin yarn and embellished with beads for unique accessories.
  15. Mini Christmas Stockings: These can be used as ornaments, gift card holders, or festive decorations.

These small projects are not only satisfying to make but also excellent opportunities to learn new knitting techniques without the commitment of a larger project.

Whether you’re looking for a quick knit or needing to use up yarn scraps, there’s a small project suited for every knitter’s needs.

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4 Comments

    1. Hello Jo Ann,
      That is a great idea!
      And a lovely thing to do for your community.
      Happy knitting 🙂
      Louise