Tip of the Week - Do you have enough yarn?

How to Avoid Running Out of Yarn: A Simple Trick

There’s nothing worse than running out of yarn midway through a project. Picture this: you’re halfway through your dream jumper, and you realise you’re out of yarn. Worse still, the shade you’re using is sold out or discontinued! Frustrating, isn’t it?

Here’s a tip seasoned crafters swear by: start by knitting the back and one sleeve of your garment first.

 

Why This Works

1. Gauge Your Yarn Needs

By completing these sections first, you’ll have a better idea of how much yarn you’re using. The back is typically the largest piece, and adding a sleeve gives a good benchmark for the rest of the garment. Multiply accordingly, and you’ll know if you’ve bought enough yarn—or if you need to stock up before it’s too late.

2. Check Tension and Fit

This trick also acts as a double-check for your tension. If you’re knitting slightly looser or tighter than expected, you can make adjustments before completing the entire piece. Plus, trying on a sleeve lets you preview the fit.

3. Save Time and Heartache

Avoid the stress of running to your local yarn shop (or endlessly scrolling online) to match the exact shade or dye lot. Planning ahead keeps your crafting journey smooth and enjoyable.

 

How to Apply This Tip

• Start by knitting the back piece as per your pattern. It’s the largest and often most straightforward part to work on.

• Move on to one sleeve. Sleeves can be a good indicator of how much yarn a smaller section will consume.

• Measure how much yarn you’ve used, and calculate whether your current stash will cover the rest of the project. If you need more yarn, now’s the perfect time to get it.

Bonus Tip

If you’re working with a limited amount of yarn and can’t restock, consider adding contrasting cuffs, hems, or even a colour block to stretch your stash. These creative touches can make your garment even more unique!

Planning your yarn quantities doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By starting with the back and a sleeve, you can knit with confidence and avoid last-minute surprises.

Happy crafting! 🧶