37+ Patterns To Use Up Your Yarn Stash (Small Projects)
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.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.
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.
Irish Moss Stitch Dishcloth Knitting Pattern
Make an easy-knitted dishcloth with a textured Irish moss stitch pattern for your home.
Great for beginners who are learning basic knitting stitches.
It is a simple pattern that's perfect if you are looking for a smaller project.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Bookmark Knitting Pattern (Celtic Cable)
In this post, you will see a bookmark knitting pattern with a Celtic cable design.
This is a fun project and a great way to use scrap yarn in your stash.
A bookmark is one of the easiest things to knit, and this cable knit will be a treasured keepsake.
Diagonal Knit Dishcloth Pattern (Free + Easy For Beginners)
In this post, you will learn how to knit a corner-to-corner dishcloth with this diagonal knit dishcloth pattern for beginners.
This is a great quick project for a beginner knitter as it teaches you how to knit garter stitch, increase through yarn overs, and decrease.
Plus, it’s a great stash buster to use up those leftover cotton yarns in your yarn stash.
Free Merry Mini Stockings: Knit Christmas Socks
These small Christmas stockings are perfect for adding a touch of handmade charm to your holiday décor.
Whether you use them as tree ornaments, festive garlands, or thoughtful gift wrap embellishments, these little stockings are sure to bring joy to your celebrations.
Best of all, this free pattern is perfect for knitters of all levels, making it a great stashbusting project to dive into during the holidays!
Lover Bookmark Knitting Pattern (Free Printable)
Add a touch of romance to your reading routine with this dreamy lace bookmark, inspired by the pastel tones and soft vibes of Taylor Swift’s Lover album.
This quick and easy lace knitting pattern is perfect for beginner knitters and Swifties alike.
Corner To Corner Baby Blanket Pattern
This corner to corner baby blanket is knit in garter stitch stripes.
You can substitute the colors for various colors in your stash and make this blanket truly colorful!
All you need is bulky yarn and circular knitting needles.
Simple Crochet Baby Blanket Pattern (Blanket Stitch)
In this post, you will see a simple crochet baby blanket pattern created using the blanket stitch.
Crocheting a baby blanket is a wonderful way to create something special for a new arrival.
It’s practical but also personal and sentimental, especially when handmade.
Celtic Cable Dishcloth Knitting Pattern
Make your dishcloths featuring the intricate Celtic cable knit stitch pattern.
Grab a skein of your favorite cotton yarn, and get ready to knit a new dishcloth or two!
It's a great way to use up your yarn stash.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
How To Knit A Baby Hat (Simple With Straight Needles)
In this blog post, you will see how to knit a baby hat with easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions.
This is a basic pattern for beginners.
You will need to know how to cast on, casting off, the knit stitch, the purl stitch, and decreasing through K2tog and P2tog.
Crochet Baby Hat (Easy Pattern For Beginners)
Crocheting a basic beanie for a baby can be a fun and rewarding project for anyone who loves to work with yarn.
Not only that, but a cute baby hat can also be a great gift for a new mom-to-be.
But it’s also a practical and stylish accessory for any baby’s wardrobe.
Ice Cream Cozy Crochet Pattern {Beginner Friendly!}
Ice cream cozies are a great first crochet project, as they are small and easy to make.
You will use single crochet stitches to create a simple but useful design.
You need around 50g of yarn per cozy.
Crochet one in all of your favorite different colors.
Tea Cosy Knitting Pattern
Why not knit this lovely tea cozy knitting pattern? It’s an easy knitting pattern that looks great knit in any color of your choice.
The design is simple: pleated panels in two colors are stitched together, leaving openings for the handle and spout.
This would be suitable for an advanced beginner as well as a seasoned knitter!
Make one in your favorite colors of yarn.
Knitted Cat Hat - Free Knitting Pattern
The benefit of making a knitted cat hat is that you can make one in a few hours using bulky yarn and (US 11) 8 mm knitting needles.
Even with zero knitting experience, the free pattern and making-up photo tutorial will help you to make your cat hat to enjoy wearing in October.
Free Cat Hat Crochet Pattern (5 Sizes for Beginners)
A cat hat crochet pattern is the ultimate cute project for cat lovers — playful, cozy, and beginner-friendly!
Whether you’re making one for yourself, a child, or a friend, this beanie pattern is a fun and fast crochet hat tutorial with serious charm.
Striped Socks Knitting Pattern
This striped socks knitting pattern is a great pattern for those of you out there who love stripes!
You can make a pair of socks in all sorts of color combinations, from neutrals to pastel hues and bo
1989 Bookmark Knitting Pattern (Free Printable)
Inspired by the dreamy pastels and nostalgia of Taylor Swift’s 1989 album, this lace bookmark is a perfect blend of pretty and practical.
Featuring a gentle eyelet motif and a soft shimmer of color, it’s an ideal stash-busting project for fans of music, reading, and knitting.
How To Knit A Bunny For Beginners (Free Pattern)
Make a colorful soft toy using scraps from other projects following the free and easy pattern.
Take a look at this pattern if you are looking to start a project to practice your knitting skills, use up leftover yarn, and make a cute gift for a loved one.
It's great as a gift and decoration for your little one’s room.
Granny Square Pattern: Crochet The Perfect Square (Free Printable)
Looking for the perfect granny square pattern?
This easy, step-by-step tutorial will show you how to crochet a traditional granny square using five different colors — with a free printable included for convenience.
Scrap Yarn Shawl Knitting Pattern
This scrap yarn shawl is an asymmetrical knit in garter stitch with worsted weight yarn and 5 mm (US 8) needles.
The shawl is a great stash buster knit in stripes to use up those mini skeins or one-skein wonders in your yarn stash.
It's a great project to start your knitting journey.
Designed with an asymmetrical shape, the shawl can be worn in a few ways for a relaxed fit.
Celtic Cable Knit Headband Pattern
A Celtic Cable Knit Headband is a great project for cold weather, offering both style and warmth.
As the chilly season approaches, it’s the perfect time to dive into cozy knitting projects.
Soap Saver Bag Crochet Pattern
In this post, you will see two soap-saver bag crochet patterns.
Making all of the items in the crochet bathroom set will be perfect for gifting or for making and selling at upcoming craft fairs.
Great for stash-busting and using up cotton scraps.
It is a simple project for all makers.
Dishcloth Knitting Patterns {To Practice Basic Knitting Stitches}
Dishcloth knitting patterns to practice basic knitting stitches.
Make a set of three knitted dishcloths, each with knit and purl stitches.
Perfect for a first project for a beginner knitter.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Crochet Dishcloth Pattern Set {Three Designs}
Crochet dishcloth pattern set that includes three different designs.
Great for beginners who are learning to practice basic crochet stitch patterns.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Crochet Face Scrubbies Pattern
Make a set of cotton crochet face scrubbies for you or as a gift.
This crochet face scrubbie pattern is an excellent beginner crochet project that will introduce you to creating a chain, single crochet, and crocheting circles!
Dog Sweater Knitting Pattern
Make a dog sweater with various colors you have left in DK yarn.
The sweater is striped, perfect for using up any leftovers in your yarn stash.
Make your dog a cozy knit for the colder months they will love!
It is the ideal gift for everyone who loves dogs.
Granny Square Crochet Bookmark Pattern (Free Printable)
This granny square crochet bookmark pattern is a fun, lightweight, and thoughtful way to use up your yarn stash while creating something truly personal with elegance and charm.
Whether you’re stitching for yourself or a fellow book lover, this is a quick project, customizable, and perfect for gifting.
Knitted Tea Cosy Pattern | Ice Cream Swirl
In this post, you will see a knitted tea cosy pattern that looks like an ice cream swirl.
The ice cream swirl tea cosy is made in two striped pieces and then stitched together, leaving openings for the handle and spout.
It's a great gift for a friend who loves tea.
How To Knit Baby Booties (Step By Step)
In this post, you will see how to knit baby booties with easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions.
This is a basic pattern for beginner-level people, and the techniques you will need to know are casting on, casting off, knitting in garter stitch, decreasing through K2tog, and picking up stitches.
A quick-knit project for all makers of any skill level.
These baby booties are knit flat with straight needles and later seamed to finish.
The Sea Glass Shawl Knitting Pattern
Make this pretty shawl in any color of your choice.
Check out this pattern if you want to start a new knitting project to use the leftover yarn in your collection.
You can also experiment with the stitch pattern using different yarn weights and needle sizes.
Crochet Shamrock Pattern (+ Four Leaf Clover)
In this post, you will see a crochet shamrock pattern and a four-leaf clover.
You can easily make the leaves of a shamrock by crocheting heart-shaped flat panels and sewing them together, adding a stem, and voila!
This is a fun project and a great way to use scrap yarn in your stash.
Baby Blanket Pattern (Patchwork + 4 Stitch Patterns)
This patchwork baby blanket knitting pattern can be made in various different colors.
Made with different simple stitches, this is an easy pattern.
You can also experiment with yarn weights and various needle sizes.
A knit blanket is a lovely gift for a new mom.
Retro Bloom Granny Square Crochet Pattern (Free Printable)
This Retro Bloom Granny Square uses vibrant color changes in every round to create a playful, high-impact motif—perfect for afghans, bags, or even a funky vest.
Step into a time capsule with this bold, granny square inspired by 1970s style.
Falling Leaves Free Ear Warmer Knitting Pattern
The Falling Leaves Headband is the perfect project for knitters looking to create a warm headband that blends function and beauty.
Designed with DK yarn and 4 mm (US 6) knitting needles, this headband is an intermediate-level warmer knitting pattern that combines snug fit and classic look with a touch of nature-inspired elegance.
Folklore Bookmark Knitting Pattern (Free Printable)
Inspired by the haunting, introspective world of Taylor Swift’s “Folklore,” I designed a knitting pattern that captures the album’s woodsy, reflective spirit in a beautifully textured bookmark.
How To Knit The Linen Stitch (Tutorial + Pattern)
In this post, you will see how to knit the linen stitch with a tutorial and free dishcloth pattern.
Slipped stitches create a woven texture and a very firm knitted fabric that does not curl at the edges.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
How To Crochet The Linen Stitch (Tutorial + Pattern)
In this post, you will see how to crochet the linen stitch with a tutorial and free dishcloth pattern.
This is a simple crochet stitch pattern that gives a dense woven fabric perfect for blankets, dishcloths, table mats, table runners, and pot holders.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Autumn Leaves & Evermore Bookmark (Free Printable)
There’s something about the Evermore era that feels timeless—a gentle melancholy mixed with a sense of nostalgia, much like the falling leaves in autumn.
Inspired by Taylor Swift’s Evermore album, I decided to create a knitted lace bookmark that captures the essence of the season: a delicate pattern featuring falling leaves, perfect for cozy reading sessions as the weather cools and the days grow shorter.
Outlander Carolina Shawl Pattern
This shawl knitting pattern inspired by Claire from Outlander can be knit using a variety of yarns.
You could experiment with different yarn weights and textures, making it all striped.
It would make a great gift and can be made in any color of your choice.
There is a video tutorial to help you to start knitting the shawl.
Fingerless Mittens Pattern | Outlander Claire
This pair of fingerless mittens is a great stash-busting project for a one-skein wonder.
You only need one skein to make up these easy mittens inspired by Claire from Outlander.
Accessories like fingerless gloves are perfect for stash busting.
Willow Bookmark Knitting Pattern (Free Printable)
As the leaves fall and the air cools, there’s something incredibly comforting about curling up with a warm drink, a good book, and, of course, some knitting.
This season, I found inspiration from Taylor Swift’s hauntingly beautiful song, “Willow,” to create a bookmark that captures the autumnal essence of both the lyrics and the season.
Crochet Headband Pattern
Make an easy crochet headband with this free pattern; it’s easy to follow and great for beginners.
A handmade crochet headband would complete all spring and autumn outfits; you can keep it for yourself or gift it to a friend.
Made with wool yarn, it's perfect for the winter.
Knitted Halloween Treat Bags {Candy Corn Colors}
In this post, you will see knitted Halloween treat bags to make in two sizes.
This is a great project for anyone new to knitting as they are knit back and forth on straight needles, then seamed.
Perfect for gifting kids with candy over the holidays.
You can adjust the colors and make it Christmas themed.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Free Crochet Washcloth Pattern (Easy Granny Squares)
In this post, you will see a free crochet washcloth pattern set with two designs that will help you to practice basic crochet stitches.
Washcloths are a great first crochet project, as they are small and easy to make.
These free patterns are granny square designs made larger in bright cotton colors.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Crochet Acorn Garland Free Pattern (Fall Decor)
In this post, you will see how to create your crochet acorn garland.
At this time of the year, many people decorate their homes for autumn with pine cones, acorns, pumpkins, and other things that celebrate the season.
How To Knit Fisherman's Rib Stitch (And Headband Pattern)
This post will teach you how to knit Fisherman’s rib stitch and a free headband pattern.
The knitted headband has a step-by-step tutorial so you can follow along and learn this fantastic reversible pattern if you are a new knitter.
Pair it with a cozy cardigan for the ultimate fall look.
How To Crochet A Headband (Easy For Beginners)
This post will teach you how to crochet a headband (easy for beginners).
The crochet headband has a step-by-step tutorial so you can follow along and learn this fantastic ribbed pattern if you are a new crocheter.
This crochet ear warmer is crocheted with a bulky weight yarn and uses only one skein of yarn, making it a quick and easy crochet project for great gifts.
Make yourself the perfect winter accessory!
How To Corner To Corner Crochet (C2C) For Beginners
In this blog post, you will learn everything about how to corner-to-corner crochet (C2C) for beginners.
You will also see a written pattern and a video tutorial showing you how to crochet corner to corner and a free crochet pattern for a dishcloth.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
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.
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.
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;
- 20 Free Crochet Dishcloth Patterns
- 10 Free Knitted Dishcloth Patterns
- Coaster Knitting Pattern (Herringbone Stitch Knitting)
- You can make coasters to keep your table’s water ring free.
- Knitted jewelry (earrings, bracelets).
- Headbands for your hair.
- Bookmarks.
- Amigurumi.
- Scrunchies.
You can make pretty much everything with the leftover scraps of yarn in your 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.
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.
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:
- Coasters: Simple and practical, knitted coasters are great for trying out new stitch patterns or colorwork techniques.
- Dishcloths/Washcloths: These are perfect for practicing knitting basics and make wonderful gifts, especially when paired with fancy soap or spa items.
- 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.
- Keychains: Use small bits of yarn to create colorful and unique keychains. Incorporate beads or tassels for extra flair.
- Fingerless Gloves: These are relatively quick to knit and are very practical. They’re great for keeping hands warm while allowing for mobility.
- Baby Booties: A classic knitted item, baby booties are a sweet and quick project, perfect for expecting parents or as a baby shower gift.
- Bookmarks: Thin, delicate bookmarks can be knitted using lightweight yarn. They make thoughtful gifts for book lovers.
- 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.
- 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.
- Pincushions: Useful for sewers and quilters, knitted pincushions can be as simple or as elaborate as you like.
- 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.
- Scrunchies: With the resurgence of 90s fashion, knitted scrunchies are back in style. Use velvet or bulky yarn for a plush feel.
- Lavender Sachets: Small knitted squares or pouches filled with lavender or other herbs make lovely drawer or closet fresheners.
- Jewelry: Bracelets, necklaces, or earrings can be knitted with thin yarn and embellished with beads for unique accessories.
- 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.
For more ideas, you may also like these posts:
More Patterns You May Be Interested In…
- How To Knit A Hat For Complete Beginners (+ Video Tutorial)
- 20 Temperature Blanket Patterns (The Ultimate Guide)
- How To Knit A Hat With Circular Needles (Step-By-Step)
- 31 Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns (Easy Knit Blankets)
- How To Knit Baby Booties (Step-By-Step)
- Knitted Dog Sweater Pattern (3 Sizes)
- 12 Simple Knitting Stitches For Beginners
- Free Knitted Dishcloth Patterns
- Free Dog Sweater Knitting Pattern (Straight Needles)
- Super Easy Corner To Corner Baby Blanket Pattern (Knit)
- Easy Baby Sweater Knitting Pattern For Beginners
- How To Knit A Baby Hat (Straight Needles)
- Pumpkin Knitting Pattern (Beginner Friendly!)
- 8 Cable Stitch Knitting Patterns
- Free Knitted Heart Pattern (Easy + Quick Project)
- 20+ Fall Oversized Knits (Sweater Knitting Patterns)
- Ribbed Beanie Knitting Pattern (Unisex Mariner’s Hat)