Use Up Your Leftover Yarn! 10 Patterns Perfect for Partial Skeins

By Caissa "Cami" McClinton – 2 Comments

I know I can’t be the only one out here with multiple partial skeins of yarn left over. By partial skeins, I mean skeins or balls of yarn from which you’ve only used a few yards, like maybe 50 yards or less. They are left over after a project. Partial skeins can be a bit of a conundrum, because it’s too much yarn to throw away, but it might leave you stumped about what to do with it! Since I need to solve this problem for myself, I decided to put together a round up of patterns that we all could use to make the most of the yarn we have.

Ten Great Crochet Patterns for Partial Skeins by Caissa McClinton @artlikebread





The first pattern I chose was Rachel’s Unisex Striped Beanie in 5 Sizes. The reason for this is two-fold: The stripes could be a great way to incorporate partial skeins, and also the smaller sizes will use up less yarn if you are running low. The Classic Baby Pullover Sweater in Five Sizes is a great option for the same reasons.

The charming Cherry Blossom Binder Cover is a great option to make with or without embroidery. It would look fabulous in multiple colors.

Crocheted in multiple colors, the Jungle Rhythm Baby Blanket is a great way to use up a lot of yarn. Use up partials by switching out the colors as you run out!

Because I always need one, the Quick Storage Basket is a great bet. While it is crocheted in thick yarn, holding two or more strands together can achieve the same effect and make up an interesting look when you run out of one color and join a new one.

The Braided Infinity Scarf looks great in multiple colors. While you are crocheting the strips, you can add in a new color if you run out of one. I think that would make a cool effect.

The Demode Summer Cowl has subtle striping, but also uses little yarn because it is lacy.

I love this Frosted Drawstring Pouch because it uses color work in a creative way.

Amy’s Easy Chunky Cap is both quick and uses little yarn. I think it would work great with two strands of lighter yarn held together to make chunky weight. The yardage is low… Make a few with your partial skeins.

If you have a good 180 yards in your partial skein, the Drawstring Pouch would be a great option, and it’s useful, too.

Thanks for reading this. It was a lot of fun to dream up ideas of what do to with my partial skeins. My hook is twitching. So what about you, my friends? Do you have a favorite way to use your partial skeins? Please leave your thoughts, ideas and questions in the comment section below.

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2 Comments

  1. Tina says:

    What a great round-up ! I,too, make hats when I have partial skeins. And yes,i use stripes alot too. 🙂 Or I knit scarves, and hand out to homeless people when need be. 🙂
    I am a little ( ok alot) intimidated of making baskets. :/ But may think of trying.

  2. fleurdelis says:

    I keep almost every drop of yarn and use it for charity items like hats, scarves, washcloths etc. Putting all the balls of the same hues together in a zip-lock bag or two helps. Granny squares work up nicely as small security blankets for children in shelters or for just rambling rainbow grannies.

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