Scrap yarn projects - tips, inspiration and guides

Save the yarn

At Önling, it is an integral part of our daily routine to think about how we can use leftovers, reuse materials, and minimize waste. We love finding creative solutions where yarn scraps get a new life, and we are daily inspired by our customers' ability to create beautiful projects from what they already have. In this blog, we guide you on what you can knit with your yarn leftovers and how to do it.

Choosing a Project and Yarn

First, you need to choose your project. We recommend starting with an easy project, such as a basic sweater, a scarf, or a hat. Simple designs are easier to adjust to different yarn types, and you’ll get visible results quickly, which motivates you to keep going.

It could be, for example, the Felicity sweater or Felicity Scarf – two lovely patterns designed for using yarn scraps. When choosing yarn, take into account the yarn length and spinning, to ensure the materials match in both structure and appearance.

Sorting Yarn

We recommend sorting your yarn roughly by thickness until you get a sense of what your scraps can be used for. Keep the piles organized in boxes or bags so you can easily find what you need.

The key is figuring out which knitting tension you can use as a 'common denominator'. So take the time to do swatches to ensure an even result.

Thin yarn, such as silk-mohair and other companion threads

Thin to medium yarn, 26-28 stitches per 10 cm

Medium-thick yarn with a length of 200 m/50 g

Thick yarn (100-120 m/50 g)

Watch Videos About Yarn Scraps Knitting

Weave in Ends While Knitting

For yarn scrap projects, there are often many color changes, which means many ends to weave in. To save time, you can use techniques where you weave in the ends as you knit. Watch Kimmie Munkholm demonstrate this technique in the video below.

Changing Color in Yarn Scrap Knitting

Changing colors can be done in a way that avoids knots and extra weaving work. Charlotte Kaae shows a smart method for changing color in your knitting without leaving a bunch of loose ends.

Good Knitting Patterns with Yarn Scraps

Our Red Leftovers Shawl is perfect for using your scraps in a beautiful and functional way. Knitted in garter stitch with several threads held together on needle size 7, the shawl creates a lovely, fluffy texture. Even the smallest scraps of silk-mohair can be used, making it a great opportunity to make the most of your yarn.

Another great project is the Chloé Sweater, a simple basic design with raglan sleeves. The included pattern describes a stripe sequence, but you can also create your own unique expression by playing with colors and yarn types.

Yarn scrap knitting is a fantastic way to unleash your creativity. By combining colors and structures, you can create something unique while making use of your leftovers. So get inspired and start your next yarn scrap project!