Using up scrap yarn is the bane of my existence! Do you have that problem, too? Well, let’s get started on one of these 11 ways to use up scrap yarn in a jiffy! It’s not too early for whipping up some stocking stuffers, craft show winners, or a gift or two for the special teacher on your list! There are even a few ideas for wall hangings and decorative garlands, both are great for seasonal home decor.

Lip Balm Holder

These chap-stick holders are just the cutest, and you can find the pattern for FREE on Ravelry. Package a few of these together along with a brand new lip balm and it’s a great little gift to let someone know you’re thinking of them. These go like hotcakes at craft shows.

Bowl Cozy

Heating up leftovers in the microwave? This bowl cozy is pure genius! Fast and easy to crochet, this item will save your fingers and cut way back on the swearing from the micro to the table;-) Not that I would know about that. Two strands of worsted weight or medium weight yarn and in ten little rounds, you’ve got yourself something really useful for the kitchen. The pattern is here. Knit or crochet a couple of dish cloths in a matching cotton yarn and you have a great gift for your favorite cook.

Ice Cream Sweater

At the other end of the temperature spectrum, a Ben & Jerry’s binge need not cause frostbite! I’m one of those ice-cream lovers that sneaks a bit or two. . .or maybe a few more, right out of the carton. Avoid cold fingers with this little number, the perfect stash buster ice cream sweater. No need to fuss with putting it on and taking it off, just leave it in place and return your pint to the freezer.

Pom Pom Garland

This is a darling project and an easy way to dress up a fireplace mantle, decorate the foot of your bed, or a Christmas tree! You might want to keep an eye on those pom poms, cats just can’t resist them! You can find the easy to follow instructions right here.

Pom Pom Wall Hanging

A simple DIY project that will make you smile the minute you hang it on your wall is well worth the effort. This is the perfect use for yarn leftover from an afghan or throw. The wall hanging will coordinate perfectly! What I love about this particular tutorial, is that it includes a wonderful trick for making multiple pom poms of the same color at the same time. The instructions for this home decor piece are right here.

Tunisian Crochet Feathers

 

A basic understanding of Tunisian crochet and a few scraps are all you need to create these lovely crocheted feathers. A couple of them attached to your purse strap can really dress up your bag. A little more effort and you can create a lovely dream catcher that’s perfect for a nursery. Instructions are here.

Hand Sanitizer Cozy

These little hand sanitizer cozies will sell like gangbusters at your next craft show. Include the sanitizer and package it nicely and you’ll be the hit of the show! You can really have some fun when it comes to decorating each little cozy. Scrapbook embellishments lend themselves quite well to this project. The pattern is here.

Crochet Hanger Covers

This project is just fun and adorable and great for a beginner crochet project. I think they work especially well for displaying special outfits that babies outgrow so quickly, especially if the outfits are themed to match the nursery. Easy instructions can be found right here.

Crocheted Bookmark

This adorable crocheted daisy bookmark is a ton more fun than marking your place in a book with the grocery receipt, the magazine insert thingies that are so annoying,  or God forbid, dog earring pages! A sock yarn stem will keep the bookmark on the thinner side for use in trade paperbacks. And look, you get to use up a stash button, too! Instructions are here.

Ear Bud Pouch

These little ear bud pouches make the best gifts! They work really well to keep your earbuds untangled, but handy in your bag. The designer does ask that you use the pattern for hand-knit gifts only, not for profit at craft shows or or on the web. These little suckers are totally addicting and even work for stashing lost teeth under pillows for the tooth fairy;-) You can find the free pattern here.

Gift Wrap

I don’t really think any instructions are needed for this one! If you can tie a knot, you’re good. But, if you are interested in seeing it for yourself, you can find what you need in the book, More Last Minute Knitted Gifts.

I hope you found something fun to make that will put a dent in your scrap yarn pile! Which one are you going to try first? Let me know in the comments.