Do you have leftover skeins of yarn that are too small to be used for a complete project? You’re in the right place! I’ve gathered my favorite crochet scrap yarn projects for using that stash you’ve squirreled away.
These inspiring scrappy projects are great for using small amounts of yarn in creative, colorful, and useful ways. Whether you’re an experienced crocheter or just starting to build your stash, the free scrap yarn crochet patterns below will inspire you to kick off a new project today.
Scrap Yarn Crochet Projects
Have you found yourself with a collection of leftover yarn that’s too much to throw away but too little to make an entire project? If so, you’re in luck! Using up extra bits of yarn can make your crocheting even more creative, charming, and unique!
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Blankets and Afghans
Crochet blankets are some of the most common ways to use yarn scraps, and we’ve included some gorgeous patterns below. If you prefer to design your own, check out our favorite crochet stitches for afghans.
What To Crochet With Small Amounts of Yarn
There are almost unlimited crochet projects that can be made with scrap yarn. Small amounts of yarn can be used for modest, fast patterns, but you can also combine scraps for larger colorful projects.
Here are some of my favorite uses for leftover yarn:
Granny Squares
Granny squares are a classic crochet motif perfect for using small amounts of yarn. You can crochet a bunch of granny squares in different colors and then combine them to create a cardigan, afghan, pillow, or even a boho vest..
Amigurumi
Crochet stuffed animals, aka amigurumi, can be an excellent way to use DK weight or worsted-weight scraps. Bits of leftover yarn can be used to add details and accents to your handmade dolls, toys, and other plushies.
Garments
Create a one-of-a-kind design by using various yarn colors and textures in your next crochet sweater project. Patchwork cardigans and striped garments lend themselves to a scrappy look, but making a basic yoke pullover in worsted-weight pieces would be stunning too.
Home Decor
Scrap yarn can be used up on small home decor items like coasters, placemats, and wall hangings.
Because items like pot holders and washcloths don’t require much yardage, you may be able to complete an entire project with the random half skein of yarn in your stash.
And if you have lots of colorful acrylics in your yarn stash, crochet Christmas ornaments can be a fun way to use them.
Accessories
Crochet accessories like ear warmers, fingerless gloves, and cowls are great for using scrap yarn. Changing colors to use up small scraps often produces a playful and fun vibe for accessories like crochet shawls and beginner beanies.
More Ways to Use Your Leftovers
Smaller yarn scraps can also be perfect for adding embellishments to other crochet or knit projects. Use your extra yarn for fringe, tassels, pom poms, hat ties, or borders and edgings on larger blankets.
Related: How to Shop Your Stash: The Best Patterns for Using the Yarn You Have
More Free Patterns to Crochet
Whether you have loads of stash yarn or want an excuse to head to the craft store, we have plenty of free crochet patterns to inspire your next project.
Free Crochet Scrap Yarn Patterns
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy pattern or a more challenging project to bust some serious stash yarn, you’ll surely find something to love in the collection of crochet scrap yarn projects below.
Already know what type of project you want to make? Click the links below to jump to your favorite patterns.
Blanket Patterns
Crochet blanket patterns are a fun way to use your scrap yarn and create cozy, warm pieces for your home. Depending on the colors you choose, you can use the following patterns to create vivid, multicolored afghans or more cohesive, monochromatic designs.
With a bit of creativity and a crochet hook, you can turn your leftover yarn into beautiful afghans that you’ll love snuggling up with.
See more afghan patterns →
Hexagon Afghan Pattern
Related: How to Crochet a Hexagon
Modern Granny Stitch Throw
Grandmother’s Flower Garden
Easy Ripple Afghan
Scrap Yarn Hexagon Quilt
Granny Stitch Scrapghan
Scrappy Corner-to-Corner Crochet Afghan
Lazy Waves Stash Buster
Stitch Sampler Afghan
Striped Scrap Buster Blanket
Easy Hexagon Crochet Blanket
Theo Linen Stitch Afghan
Plaid Throw with Fringe
Modern Granny Stitch Striped Blanket
Granny Triangle Baby Blanket
Dog “Quilt” Pattern
Diamond Stitch Crochet Blanket
Easy Weighted Rainbow Blanket
Modern C2C Crochet Christmas Afghan
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Worsted Weight Yarn Scrap Blanket
Beginner Patchwork “Quilt”
Scrappy Block Quilt
Bobble Pop Blanket
Adelie Granny Square Blanket
Flower Granny Square Throw
Woven Crochet Baby Blanket
Sweater Patterns
Using scrap yarn to crochet sweaters and cardigans can be a great way to create unique, one-of-a-kind garments that are full of personality. Mixing and matching different colors and textures of yarn can create a scrappy, colorful look that is truly your own.
Worried that wearing a scrap yarn sweater will make you feel a little too out there? Remember, the scrappy, “handmade” vibe is on trend everywhere, from runways to Target. I say, go for it!
Remix Crochet Cardigan
Patchwork Button-Down Cardigan
Modern Granny Square Cardigan
Our Latest Crochet Inspiration:
Here are a few more free crochet patterns and tutorials that are hot off the presses.
Accessories
Many types of accessories can be made with scrap yarn, including crochet hats, scarves, cowls, headbands, and boot toppers.
These quick projects are perfect for using up small amounts of yarn and can be a fun way to add color and texture to your outfits.
Scrappy Crochet Bucket Hat
“Woven” Tunisian Crochet Scarf
Obsessed with finding the best free crochet patterns?
Check out these collections of handpicked patterns to find your next project.
You must use the category name, not a URL, in the category field.Home Decor
Compared to garments, home decor projects don’t always have to be a specific size. This allows you to experiment with substituting scrap yarn of a different weight than the pattern calls.
Some of the most beautiful and functional decor pieces can be made with scrap yarn, including baskets, coasters, placemats, trivets, potholders, pillows, and wall hangings.
Scrap Yarn Pom Pom Rug
Leather Scrap Yarn Coasters
Related: More Father’s Day Crochet Ideas
Ombre Easy Pillow Pattern
DIY Wall Hanging With Dollar Store Twine
Crochet Boho Mirrored Wall Hanging
Factors to Consider When Choosing Scraps
When it comes to scrappy crochet projects, the best yarn is often the yarn you have! That said, there are a few things to remember when sorting through your stash.
These are even more important to consider when substituting a different scrap yarn than the pattern calls for.
Fiber Content
Fiber content can affect the finished project’s drape, stretch, and overall appearance. For example, wool yarns can be warm and insulating but sometimes feel scratchy. Some people can’t use wool due to allergies.
One hundred percent cotton yarns are cooler and more absorbent, but they can be stiff and lack drape at first. This can often be remedied with wet blocking.
Weight
The weight of the yarn can also impact the final project. For example, thicker yarns will create a bulkier fabric, while thinner yarns will create a lighter material.
When combining multiple yarns in one project, you’ll usually want to choose scraps that are very similar in weight. Exceptions to this include patterns like the Dahlia Scrapgan, which we designed to use different yarn weights in one blanket.
Color
Scrap yarn projects are an excellent opportunity to experiment with color and create a playful look.
If the idea of a crochet rainbow with every color under the sun doesn’t appeal to you, choose scraps within a more narrow category. For example, choose only shades of blue, all warm colors, or stripes that follow a logical gradient.
Texture
Using various textures of yarn within a single project can be a great way to add interest and depth to your project. Here are a few tips for using multiple textures in your crocheting:
- Choose compatible fibers: Using yarns that can at least be laundered similarly is generally best.
- Experiment with different combinations: Try combining different textures and see what works best for your project. Mix smooth, shiny yarns with textured yarns like bouclé or chenille, or combine different yarn weights to create a multidimensional look.
- Use a consistent stitch: When working with multiple textures of yarn, it can be helpful to use a uniform stitch throughout the project. Using single crochet or double crochet stitches can create a cohesive look and ensure the project doesn’t become too busy.
Supplies and Materials
Crochet projects made with scrap yarn can vary widely, so there’s room to experiment. Here is a list of supplies you’ll need:
- Scrap yarn in the weight listed in the pattern
- A crochet hook of the correct size
- A tapestry needle to weave in your ends
- Scissors for cutting your yarn
Depending on the pattern you choose, you may also want to have:
- Stitch markers
- Tassel maker
- Pom pom maker
- Steamer, blocking board and t-pins to ensure a good drape
Learn all about blocking crochet in our complete guide.
Parting Thoughts on Crocheting with Scrap Yarn
Sometimes the best inspiration comes when you have fewer, rather than endless, options. The limitation of using only scrap yarn for a project is often the perfect nudge to stretch your creativity.
Charge confidently forward and turn your leftover yarn into beautiful, functional crochet projects!
That was so fun! Now what?
Invitation to our Facebook group
Come discuss crocheting scrap yarn patterns and lots of other projects and techniques in our Make & Do Crew Facebook group. Here thousands of helpful crocheters answer each other’s questions and share their stitches. Come join us here.
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