I have an idea. Don’t bin your scraps. Maybe donate them to a nursery school or preschool. Little kids do lots of art projects that require little bits and pieces stuff. You’d be surprised how creative they can be with .5 gram of yarn. And as it’s almost Christmas so they might even use it just as hangers for their handmade ornaments. It’s surprising how grateful teachers will be for anything for their classes.
I totally agree with this, but any school at all will do. I teach in a secondary school and run the craft/repair club, and little bits of yarn etc. are something we really, really appreciate, since we have no real budget for extracurriculars. Whichever place is easiest for you to get to!
I donated some of my huge stash to friends they used it for grandkids and also took some to a secondary school to be used in craft classes and teaching knitting and crochet.
I sometimes treat those weird, super tiny amounts of yarn as string instead of yarn. For example, I would wrap gift tags onto presents with them, or use them to tie a package. Basically, they become pretty bits of twine in my head instead of yarn, since they're not really usable like yarn anymore with so little left.
You can also make multi colored tassels. There's a gal I know who makes tassel earrings and woven wall hangings with various colored yarn. Her business is called You're the Party.
I found also a cool way to use those, cause I have quite a lot of these, go find the cats alpha pattern and do a blanket with that pattern and make every cat a different color. It is a really cool idea for a scrap yarn, but unfortunately it takes a lot of work with unraveling the yarn while crocheting
This stash busting series has become something I really look forward to watching every month! When I’m in a knitting rut I like to watch someone else complete projects or work on something and it inspires me to get back to it. Great job with all your work, it looks wonderful!
You could use small scraps of yarn to make a bunch of different crochet flowers and use them as appliqués on your crochet blanket. They could serve as a small reminder of all of the wonderful projects you've worked on, and hopefully make you fall head over heels for the lovely wavy bed spread🥰
If you ever decide to knit (or sew) something that requires stuffing, you could use the yarn scraps for that! I am really curious about seeing the finished shawl. I'd probably wrap myself in it, gaze longingly out of the window and pretend to be a character from a Dickens novel :D
I was thinking it would be an excellent "couch throw" ! I keep one on my couch/futon for some color and extra warmth while reading. I just pull it onto my shoulders ! I need one for my rocking chair, too !
I can never throw out any yarn scraps. One of my favorite scarves is a scrap scarf, with non-repeating stripes done lengthwise and the scrappy fringe at the ends. As an embroiderer, I also tell myself I'll use the little bits in embroidery pieces by couching them onto the surface. Of course, you could probably also use them to embroider embellishment designs in your knits the way Engineering Knits did with the vertical lines in her spider web sweater.
I have a massive stash that’s about to gain sentience, which is a bad thing when you’re also allergic to finishing projects (I have like 15 UFOs and WIPs ugh shame shame shame). Your videos have been motivating me to actually work on projects and finish them!! Instead of just sitting alone, I get to “catch up” with what you’ve been working on - so thank you for that. Love that you’re using your stash to give back too!
I think you did super well this month! You did so much, and it's amazing that it's for charity. I also have health issues (mostly mental, as opposed to phsyical, though there are physical effects). I also struggle to knit or crochet because of pain in my arms and shoulders and repetitive stress injuries, which can be hard when i'm in a bad mental place (which is basically always lol). That said, currently I'm able to knit and crochet, and I love the idea of making things for charity. In my country it's a bit hard to find easy ways to give (even if there is need), but I love the idea of starting a little collection so that I have stuff to give when I find a place. I'm such a slow crafter that that's probably for the best anyway lol
I’ve got a scrappy granny square blanket that’s been a wip for years and I add all my bits and pieces to that. I love it all the colors and textures mixed together 💛
Love granny squares! Great for scraps and a variety of things. You can make little squares and piece them together like quilt squares or just keep going until you have a square the size of your choice. I've seen all kinds of patterns for the squares. I believe I even have a crazy coat pattern that uses them, lol.
I love the Victorian shawl. I’m trying to only use my stash after watching your stash busting videos. Also loving that purple jumper your wearing at the end.
Sorry you've felt so poorly... Great that you've lifted your mood with charitable knitting.. I'm currently stashbusting and my local Dr's surgery has put a shout out for housebound folk... I'm many mittens, socks and scarves later.. I love knitting for others... It's a guilty pleasure of knowing as old, tiresome yarns go - new, fresh ones come in! Yay.... xx
That shevron jumper is beautiful! 😍 The blue lace one is lovely, too. I really like the antique pattern shawl. I hope you can knit a length of it between other projects until it's finished. I love the idea of knitting for others;I have done that. It makes one feel so warm and cosy. I love these videos not least because you are so real about the challenges. Just like the ones I face. I inherited a big lot of acrylic yarn from my mom. It was mostly donated to her to knit sweaters for missions. I'm enjoying using it up, but.... Anyway, well done!
Idea to make crochet a bit more accessible when it is hard to keep count: stitch markers (can use paper clips, scrap yarn, etc). Increasing in the round follows a specific pattern (flat circle) so you could have a different marker for beginning of round and put in a marker in the second stitch of every increase. Every time you get to a marker you know to add an increase in that stitch.
Sorry you’ve been unwell! I have chronic neuropathic pain so I definitely understand that some weeks are just a bit of a write off. So lovely that you’re using your knitting and crochet skills and stash to help other people. For the little scraps you might be able to donate them to someone who does weaving. I do some freestyle tapestry and SAORI style weaving and it’s perfect for using up little scraps of yarn.
Good job on all the projects you made to give away. I liked the headband the best. My mother would combine all her left overs and make crazy quilt baby blankets. She always said babies don't care about all the weird colors, and it was better than throwing it away.
I wonder if you should take part in a yarn swap with folks that you're friends with. So that way you're getting new stuff, and you're parting with stuff you don't want, but your stash amount doesn't change.
About the Chevron blanket: post on your local yarn groups, or Buy nothing groups or Free cycle groups that you need this specific type of yarn and that you can offer x, y, w, z types of yarn instead and this way you will avoid purchasing new yarn and find the yarn you need!
Such a fun video to watch - like hanging out with a friend! I concur, when you feel bad, doing for others can be the best medicine (at least then, you’re focused on something else!) Loved the many ideas from the comments on what to do with the tiny leftovers! You’re so inspiring and fearless in your knitting. Patterns from the 19th century? Wow. And, yes please, keep bringing us along on your knitting, crocheting, sewing, making adventures!
I love your stash busting video's so much. You've inspired me to start entering my yarn stash into Ravelry and it's really helped to pick out patterns and keep an eye on what I actually have. I've been on a bit of a stash busting journey myself and I've had a lot of fun combining different colours of similar weights/qualities of yarn, which was great for using up partial skeins. Things like fades/gradients and stripes and yarns held double/triple. Probably not suitable for vintage knitting but perhaps for a scrappy blanket or something you only wear when you don't feel like dressing up? Also, that chevron sweater is amazing and it looks so good on you!
Thank you so much for sharing so openly about your health and struggles. I have been mostly bedbound for 2 years now and you make me feel a little less alone💚 love your projects and your personality.
I really like the ear warmers for something quick to throw on and won't get stuck in your bun pins like a hat. I'm definitely going to be stash busting some bulky yarn with one or 2 later this month
another terrific video I think your work for others is a great idea. I do a lot of 'give away' projects when I am unwell, there are always people in need and an attractive, mindful, hand made item is a great boost for people. I consider my attention to detail - colour and pattern choice etc, an extra gift to the recipient. Also making something 'trendy' is a superb idea. We are just into summer here in Australia, so now I am making in advance, so next cold season I have a bunch of things to forward to those in need. RE:: left over litttle pieces. You mentioned pompoms, why not make some mixed yarn pom poms? Strung together they make cute nursery decorations for some new baby or can individually can be added to a fun hat. Tassles are also something you can do with very small amounts of yarn. Hope you have a less stressful December.
Whenever I take a look through my stash, I always give myself permission to donate or sell any yarns in my stash that aren’t bringing me joy or making me want to use them anymore. It can be tough to let them go, but I always feel better when they’re not staring at me anymore 😅 I love your chevron jumper - it looks so nice! Also when it comes to stash scraps, my friend Bee (of the Maker Bee podcast) made Christmas ornaments with hers. She put a bunch of scraps inside those clear plastic ball ornaments (she did similar colours together) and she loves them because they’re a time capsule of her makes).
I use scraps to crochet blankets for pet shelters. I too am basically home bound other than going to the Dr. I found crocheting for others and getting a cat has done more for my health than most medications! Most charities will ask for washable, durable acrylic.
Oh my, I am so glad I chanced on your channel. I have long covid, previously very active and involved in all sorts of stuff at the school I used to work at and a keen hiker and gardener. Anyway, learning to adapt to and accept my limitations has been very tough. So, to give myself some purpose and a sense of achievement and success I have just taught myself to crochet and I am loving it!! You're right about the act of making to gift, just made 4 hats for kids and have blankets on project. Yes, I'm struggling learning to pace myself but it's doing wonders for my mental health. I wish I could sew, your dresses are so very beautiful and you're a joy and inspiration to watch. Thank you for bringing us this content despite your own struggles, I think you are amazing. Sending love, light and healing hugs 🥰
Hey, perhaps you could make a small blanket "garden" with wee cabbages, potatoes plants, etc ?! Might have to learn some embroidery, but how wonderful a gift for a gardener ! Maybe some tiny trowels, rakes, etc. ?! Reach out to gardening clubs- they might LOVE something like this for a 'Year end Fundraiser' ?! I am also thinking a flower garden would be lovely as well 😊 ?! Perhaps a monthly "flower" ?!
I don't know how useful this info is given the difference in geographic location but I've been doing research into my own regional folkwear (East- NL) for the past few years and the shawls worn in the mid 19th century were indeed HUGE. 150x150cm wasn't uncommon and bigger sizes did exist too. Silk, cotton wool, paisley/kashmir-style shawls, woven, knitted, crocheted, didn't matter much. It wasn't until the end of the 19th century that they decreased to about 100x100cm before being replaced by capes & pelerines. From what I gather, these shawls functioned as modern-day coats so a bigger size makes sense to keep yourself warm , especially in winter :)
Thank you for this! I'm pretty certain after more research that my tension is about right so this was indeed supposed to be a MASSIVE shawl. Mine will still be pretty huge so I'm on the right track ☺️
I much prefer my shawls huge. I like to wrap the points around my waist and tie in the back. It keeps them out of the way and makes sure my chest stays warm. I look like an old lady, but idgaf lol.
I have decided that for myself, life is too short to sweat the stash! I’m a single mom of 2. I also have chronic illness. Yarn brings me joy! So I’m building a yarn wall out of peg board rather than hiding it like a dirty s secret, I’m celebrating the abundance!(Though I absolutely respect and very much enjoy watching your process. Sometimes setting limits makes a fun creative challenge. )
Stash knitting hats etc for people who need them, what a brilliant idea! (And why didn't I think of it sooner?!). We've got a table at church with donated coats etc in various sizes for anyone who needs them, & a top-up shop once a week. So I'll use stash to make lovely things and pop on the table.
You are an inspiration to me and keep me crocheting, sewing and experimenting despite managing chronic arthritis pain and depression. I have found your suggestions for working on projects despite pain issues very helpful. Thank you.
Claude, we are with you my dear. I am disabled also, and think of you and send you love and kind thoughts from Canada. My -grand-mother used to use these cones of yarn for shawls. They were so beautiful. Believe me, you will want to use the shawl when it is chilly and you just need something for your shoulders, and back while watching TV or in bed. I miss her so much even after 30 years of loosing her.
Oh how exciting! I love all the crochet this month! I still haven't invested in knitting needles so it's fun to see. That pink scarf in particular is lovely. I feel like someone will treasure that. I LOVE your blue and white ripple blanket. Even if it stays a "bed scarf" or whatever the bits that protect from shoes are called, it's still very pretty. And I am very excited about the historical patterns. I downloaded several recently and haven't been brave enough to make anything yet. I'm thinking a nightgown yoke might be something I can handle with the materials I have thrifted recently. I even found a ball of 150 crochet thread and feel like lace is probably what I need to make with that
Oooh I love the sound of the yoke! I know Engineering Knits has made something similar and I was very jealous. My crochet isn't quite that good yet so I'll keep practicing 💚
@Retro Claude I saw her video and really enjoyed it! She's a clever fingered person. Mine are kinda slow. I don't claim to be particularly advanced at crochet (as I started in October 😅), but I am stubborn and willing to rip stuff out multiple times lol. I'll say having had to seam rip completed French seams makes frogging seem less daunting 🤷♀️ I'm a "into the deep end" crafter
I love to collect my yarn scraps into a jar and then use them as stuffing for pillows/stuffed animals/other things that I would typically use polyfil for. You could also use that rainbow bit for a pompom that could then be attached to a hat of a different color!
Hello. I would knit or crochet a coaster with that special bit of yarn. It'll make you smile when you use it for your cup or mug. I've been on a stash down journey for almost a year. I didn't add mine up but wish I had. I've emptied three large totes of yarn. I'm really enjoying your channel. Thank you!
When I have a bunch of odds and ends of yarn left over I combine them all into one big ball (using a magic knot) and use that to make a scrap blanket! Knotting them all together at the beginning makes it easier to just knit and then you don't have any ends to deal with afterwards, which is s bonus
When I was a kid we made tiny yarn "people" with bits of yarn. Very similar to how yo do a "pim pom", but less scissor work ! Perhaps they could be made as "keychains" ?!
Another idea with small scapes is make a magic ball joining them altogether then crochet a C2C blanket I have made several for gifts and donations and they look fabulous everyone loves them and I also have one for myself
regarding crochet clothing - i think garments crocheted using thread or fingering weight yarn would be up your alley! definitely more hard on the hands and wrists, but it produces some lovely and delicate results that you simply just can't achieve with heavier weight yarn.
Love these stash busting videos. Kind of watching them in reverse chronological order, but oh well. I recently spent a bunch of time using up my ugly stash or little tiny stashes by making a knitted granny square afghan. The pattern I found was designed as a kind of blanket sampler with each square using a different stitch or pattern. It's from a ton of different yarns and I accidentally sewed the blocks into a square instead of a rectangle which has made it a bit of an awkward blanket to use. However it lives on my couch in the living room and I just love how it turned out. It's all kinds of colors and textures from all the different yarns and it's just great.
Hello dear Claude from Alberta Canada! I just send you a big you tube hug for your wonderful charity knitting. I think you made such a wise choice for dampened spirits and so much a benefit for others As you were describing the real need for warmth for many in Britain 🎉❤ Kelli in Edmonton (A Nana of 13 grandkids and a long time knitter)
For that lace top, here's a useful trick I was taught with interchangeables: if you find your flat tension is different because of your purl tension, you can change out one of the needles on your interchangeables so you're doing the knit rows in say, a 5 mm and the purl rows in a 5.5 mm to even out tension
I love your chevron sweater, it suits you so so well! I love that you donate your items and bust your stash at the same time. I am more on the buying side ride now 🙈 Big hugs from Belgium
Ooooo, make something from a vintage pattern and do a give-a-way for your channel, members or whatever. Someone who watches a lot of your videos might love an vintage 40s oddments knit 😊
I use my yarn scraps for stuffing. You can either felt them with a carding comb or just cut them into little pieces. It's quite therapeutic cutting wool scraps into little pieces and putting them in a bag or box. They soon build up and it's fun to stuff toys or decorations with them
I was wondering if you could use some of your tiny bits to make some ornaments as gifts? Like tiny knit mittens or hats that can hang on a tree? Especially the yarn that you used for that much loved sweater that got so worn out. That way you could keep a tiny version of the sweater you loved that can live as a decoration in your home during the holidays. I second the last comment that says donate for kids crafts too. Brilliant idea. Also, the totals might seem low but you keep working on projects that will eventually take a big chunk out of your total. The total is definitely not an example of how much work you have done. :)
I would use that multi colored yarn with weird sized scraps and turn that into a Pom Pom for that purple hat. Super cute! So cool that you were able to find uses for yarn that you wouldn’t wear and won’t have to keep in the house after making something out of a sense of guilt. And there’s def someone out there who will love them. Also that orange blouse you were wearing while explaining about the shawl is so cute on you! Love it’s style and your new jumper you showed at the end. Can’t wait to see how next months video goes!
The little bit of yarn left over might be enough for a pom-pom to go on top of another hat. And if it's not enough you can add a different type of yarn and it'll be a multicolored pom-pom.
as others have said I collect all my scraps for projects that need stuffing. I also would like to thank you for talking about your journey with chronic illness. I started crocheting in light of a recent injury and these videos are helping shift my mindset with some of the persisting symptoms. thanks for the helpful vids!
I always use my tiny scraps that I can't put into a scrap project as stuffing. I hope you feel better soon. You have inspired me to inventory my yarn for the new year and try and stash bust it to get it down to a more reasonable level.
I saw a cute little DIY using scrap yarn. It’s simply just tucking it into a transparent Christmas ornament and then a tag labeling the year. Kind of a cute way to remember yarns you’ve worked with in the year.
Something I started recently to use up small amounts of yarn, or yarn I just absolutely hated the texture of but it was too tangly and unmanageable to donate, I started turning into pompoms! I'm going to have a massive amount of green yarn left over from my temperature blanket, and I know I never want to work with it ever again (temperature blankets are traumatic events, I swear 🤣) and I saw a project going around recently of using green pompoms to make a rug that looks like moss. It scratches the creative itch for me, uses up some yarn, and also lets me get creative with mix and matching pompom colors with hats! :)
Your chevron jumper is gorgeous! I'm so impressed by how productive you are! I have chronic illnesses, rheumatoid arthritis & fibromyalgia, & I really struggle with motivation, even though I do enjoy knitting & crochet.
Something I do with my tiny leftover yarn bits is crochet granny squares from them, and I've been saving all of those squares up to make a blanket from them eventually. I personally love the look of it being scrapped together, so I don't mind if the colors go together or if there are multiple yarns being used in one square, etc. It's going to be a bit of a Frankenstein of a blanket, but I enjoy the look and I've found that it's the best way to use up all of the small leftovers I've got.
Apologies if I've commented this on another of your videos, but I employ a "2 out, 1 in" system. For every 2 skeins of yarn I crochet or knit, I'm allowed to buy 1 more. It feels like 2 steps forward, 1 step back, but it allows me to get new yarn in, which excites and inspires me, while still allowing me to (slowly!) destash. :)
Wow, the persistence! You're a knitting machine.... All looking fabulous. I wonder if some needle-felting would dispose of the little ball-ends? Return them to fleece then make some toys!
Our yarn scraps we save up all year and at the end of the year make cat toys and crate blankets for animals shelters. Cats love pure wool for toys, and the crate blankets don't have to be pretty so you can throw in pretty much anything you have.
I've started using my tiny yarn oddments for setting aside stitches (like thumb gusset/fingers). A historically accurate way of doing that, I believe. :D I imagine something like the stand-in knitting for an "afterthought" heel or thumb will happen to them in the future, too.
I like the Victorian project. Also, your stashbusting looks like mine. (I sew.) I make garments from my stash, finish UFOs but then the alure of the thrift shop or a seasonal project takes over. This time I only bought black fabric (a staple) and just enough vintage fabric to make Christmas themed scrubs
I was tempted to make some "scrubs" as a total beginner sewist ! So simple and still have some from years ago when I was a Veterinary technician! (SO copying pattern = so much easier!) The thing I love about scrubs is they are SO size inclusive ! Gain 5 lbs, no worries ! Good for around the home wearing as they are a little bit dressier then pajamas!
I’m saving all my bits and pieces to someday turn back into yarn by batting and spinning them, or possibly just turning them into batt that can be used as stuffing for little plushies :)
Oh, and also, I’ve done some small things as stocking stuffer-type gifts where it’s so small that it doesn’t really matter what the yarn is as long as it’s not ugly. Bookmarks, glasses cases, coasters and the like. I made headbands for my friends when we were young, and once a lace choker that fastened with hooks and eyes in the back. I’ve never done dish cloths but they seem like a popular gift item, and there’s always the option of making some kind of Christmas ornament.
All excellent ideas ! I recently saw on IG some crocheted pine trees & snowflakes that could be either ornaments, OR strung together as a swag. I have a cat, so seldom have a tree, but like the thought of a swag of "snowflakes" with perhaps Xmas lights behind to light them up ?!
I absolutely sympathize with the malaise that comes with working from stash. My stash is comically large in comparison to yours and yet I still have the same issues of struggling to feel inspired when combining yarn to patterns. I will find a pattern I want to make and then discover I dont have the appropriate yarn, or I will want to make a gift but not have the color that person loves, etc. Sometimes I love having a huge stash but others I feel silly because I still find times I have to buy in to finish or to make something specific. Your series has been very inspirational though :) I've been better at stashbusting and I know your videos are helping with that. Im glad you go so much done this month and hope you're feeling better!
Stash knitting is always harder than it seems! My issue is always things like "bought yarn for a colourwork jumper and of course I have heaps left over because you have to buy yarn in balls and not just exactly the amount you'll need for the colourwork" and then of course there's ALWAYS a ball or half a ball left over whenever I knit a jumper. Which I prefer over having not enough yarn or playing yarn chicken, especially since I usually lengthen jumpers because I have a very long torso. I'm thinking I'll knit a hot water bottle cover as a stash bust. I manage it really well with socks, as I'll always knit one pair with a ball of colourful striped/patterned sock yarn and then use the leftovers stranded with small bits of misc sock yarn to make a stranded pair of socks. But one ball of DK is a lot harder. Claude is doing such a valiant job with this project - I think at this stage of stash knitting I'd start trying to swap or give away or destash!
Thank you for this video. I have several chronic illness that render me quite..... almost bedridden for weeks at a time. I am an artist and i feel like I am spiraling out of control sometimes when this happens. The art that gets me through the the rough patches is impossible. I have been doing tiny projects as best i can lately throughout the flairs. What a beautiful thing you are doing to give hope and warmth in your community ❤
I was just thinking of you and hoping you were doing well. I love these stash bust videos. Hope this next year you do much better health wise. Thanks for sharing your journey
I'm so glad you were able to get yourself a nice set of interchangeables! It's so handy to be able to switch need sizes easily and knowing you have them all in the same place
I don’t have a large yarn stash, but having one at all makes me feel pretty stressed out so seeing your series tackling yours has really inspired me to take stock of what I have and get starting knitting/crocheting it down. Some amazing work this month btw
From where I'm standing that cone yarn seems like its be good for crocheted snowflakes. My great-grandmother (i think) made some way back in the day and we still have them and put them on our Christmas tree every year. Definitely something i would recommend if you do winter decorations in your home (and it isnt too challenging/painful)
I tend to sort my scraps roughly by weight, and attach them together with an invisible join. Once I have enough/when Christmas rolls around, I knit them up by holding several strands together to get an extra chunky weight, and make a quick rib beanie with a MASSIVE pompom. Surprisingly, even when I don't coordinate colors, the variegated effect tends to pull it all together into a cohesive whole. Most years, that's my secret santa gift. If I can't find someone who needs a hat, they go to our local red cross donation bin.
I have an idea. Don’t bin your scraps. Maybe donate them to a nursery school or preschool. Little kids do lots of art projects that require little bits and pieces stuff. You’d be surprised how creative they can be with .5 gram of yarn. And as it’s almost Christmas so they might even use it just as hangers for their handmade ornaments. It’s surprising how grateful teachers will be for anything for their classes.
Great idea!!
This is a brilliant idea!
As a former preschool art teacher, can confirm! I loved having interesting scraps for them to create things with.
I totally agree with this, but any school at all will do. I teach in a secondary school and run the craft/repair club, and little bits of yarn etc. are something we really, really appreciate, since we have no real budget for extracurriculars. Whichever place is easiest for you to get to!
I donated some of my huge stash to friends they used it for grandkids and also took some to a secondary school to be used in craft classes and teaching knitting and crochet.
I sometimes treat those weird, super tiny amounts of yarn as string instead of yarn. For example, I would wrap gift tags onto presents with them, or use them to tie a package. Basically, they become pretty bits of twine in my head instead of yarn, since they're not really usable like yarn anymore with so little left.
An excellent idea! Thank you 💚
Ooh, this is super useful.
Pretty way to hang up ornaments as well !
You can also make multi colored tassels. There's a gal I know who makes tassel earrings and woven wall hangings with various colored yarn. Her business is called You're the Party.
I found also a cool way to use those, cause I have quite a lot of these, go find the cats alpha pattern and do a blanket with that pattern and make every cat a different color. It is a really cool idea for a scrap yarn, but unfortunately it takes a lot of work with unraveling the yarn while crocheting
This stash busting series has become something I really look forward to watching every month! When I’m in a knitting rut I like to watch someone else complete projects or work on something and it inspires me to get back to it.
Great job with all your work, it looks wonderful!
Very clever !
That chevron ombreish jumper is absolutely gorgeous! It really suits your hair and skintone
I love the shawl ❤
You could use small scraps of yarn to make a bunch of different crochet flowers and use them as appliqués on your crochet blanket. They could serve as a small reminder of all of the wonderful projects you've worked on, and hopefully make you fall head over heels for the lovely wavy bed spread🥰
If you ever decide to knit (or sew) something that requires stuffing, you could use the yarn scraps for that!
I am really curious about seeing the finished shawl. I'd probably wrap myself in it, gaze longingly out of the window and pretend to be a character from a Dickens novel :D
I was thinking it would be an excellent "couch throw" ! I keep one on my couch/futon for some color and extra warmth while reading. I just pull it onto my shoulders ! I need one for my rocking chair, too !
@@m.maclellan7147 I want a rocking chair, too! *sobs*
I can never throw out any yarn scraps. One of my favorite scarves is a scrap scarf, with non-repeating stripes done lengthwise and the scrappy fringe at the ends. As an embroiderer, I also tell myself I'll use the little bits in embroidery pieces by couching them onto the surface. Of course, you could probably also use them to embroider embellishment designs in your knits the way Engineering Knits did with the vertical lines in her spider web sweater.
I have a massive stash that’s about to gain sentience, which is a bad thing when you’re also allergic to finishing projects (I have like 15 UFOs and WIPs ugh shame shame shame). Your videos have been motivating me to actually work on projects and finish them!! Instead of just sitting alone, I get to “catch up” with what you’ve been working on - so thank you for that. Love that you’re using your stash to give back too!
Perfectly worded! I feel the same. This series is my favorite
pom poms! The scrap of the first project would make a gorgeous little pom pom
I think you did super well this month! You did so much, and it's amazing that it's for charity. I also have health issues (mostly mental, as opposed to phsyical, though there are physical effects). I also struggle to knit or crochet because of pain in my arms and shoulders and repetitive stress injuries, which can be hard when i'm in a bad mental place (which is basically always lol). That said, currently I'm able to knit and crochet, and I love the idea of making things for charity. In my country it's a bit hard to find easy ways to give (even if there is need), but I love the idea of starting a little collection so that I have stuff to give when I find a place. I'm such a slow crafter that that's probably for the best anyway lol
I’ve got a scrappy granny square blanket that’s been a wip for years and I add all my bits and pieces to that. I love it all the colors and textures mixed together 💛
I like this idea. I've never made a granny square perhaps I'll give it a go 💚
Love granny squares! Great for scraps and a variety of things. You can make little squares and piece them together like quilt squares or just keep going until you have a square the size of your choice. I've seen all kinds of patterns for the squares. I believe I even have a crazy coat pattern that uses them, lol.
I love the Victorian shawl. I’m trying to only use my stash after watching your stash busting videos. Also loving that purple jumper your wearing at the end.
Omg yay!!! I love your stash busting videos and have been watching them on repeat while I knit lol
Omg me too! 😂
Same!
Same here!
Sorry you've felt so poorly... Great that you've lifted your mood with charitable knitting.. I'm currently stashbusting and my local Dr's surgery has put a shout out for housebound folk... I'm many mittens, socks and scarves later.. I love knitting for others... It's a guilty pleasure of knowing as old, tiresome yarns go - new, fresh ones come in! Yay.... xx
Idea for the ripple blanket. Why not have it as a bed runner until you decide if you want to make it bigger. That way you can count the yarn as used
That shevron jumper is beautiful! 😍
The blue lace one is lovely, too.
I really like the antique pattern shawl. I hope you can knit a length of it between other projects until it's finished.
I love the idea of knitting for others;I have done that. It makes one feel so warm and cosy.
I love these videos not least because you are so real about the challenges. Just like the ones I face. I inherited a big lot of acrylic yarn from my mom. It was mostly donated to her to knit sweaters for missions. I'm enjoying using it up, but.... Anyway, well done!
Idea to make crochet a bit more accessible when it is hard to keep count: stitch markers (can use paper clips, scrap yarn, etc). Increasing in the round follows a specific pattern (flat circle) so you could have a different marker for beginning of round and put in a marker in the second stitch of every increase. Every time you get to a marker you know to add an increase in that stitch.
Sorry you’ve been unwell! I have chronic neuropathic pain so I definitely understand that some weeks are just a bit of a write off. So lovely that you’re using your knitting and crochet skills and stash to help other people. For the little scraps you might be able to donate them to someone who does weaving. I do some freestyle tapestry and SAORI style weaving and it’s perfect for using up little scraps of yarn.
Thanks for the idea! I might see if I can find someone to give them to 💚
Good job on all the projects you made to give away. I liked the headband the best. My mother would combine all her left overs and make crazy quilt baby blankets. She always said babies don't care about all the weird colors, and it was better than throwing it away.
I wonder if you should take part in a yarn swap with folks that you're friends with. So that way you're getting new stuff, and you're parting with stuff you don't want, but your stash amount doesn't change.
That was my thought too 🙂
About the Chevron blanket: post on your local yarn groups, or Buy nothing groups or Free cycle groups that you need this specific type of yarn and that you can offer x, y, w, z types of yarn instead and this way you will avoid purchasing new yarn and find the yarn you need!
Excellent idea !
Such a fun video to watch - like hanging out with a friend! I concur, when you feel bad, doing for others can be the best medicine (at least then, you’re focused on something else!) Loved the many ideas from the comments on what to do with the tiny leftovers! You’re so inspiring and fearless in your knitting. Patterns from the 19th century? Wow. And, yes please, keep bringing us along on your knitting, crocheting, sewing, making adventures!
That chevron sweater is stunning!!! The colours are so complementary and it looks so neat. Cant wait to see more vintage knits.
I love your stash busting video's so much. You've inspired me to start entering my yarn stash into Ravelry and it's really helped to pick out patterns and keep an eye on what I actually have.
I've been on a bit of a stash busting journey myself and I've had a lot of fun combining different colours of similar weights/qualities of yarn, which was great for using up partial skeins. Things like fades/gradients and stripes and yarns held double/triple. Probably not suitable for vintage knitting but perhaps for a scrappy blanket or something you only wear when you don't feel like dressing up?
Also, that chevron sweater is amazing and it looks so good on you!
Thank you so much for sharing so openly about your health and struggles. I have been mostly bedbound for 2 years now and you make me feel a little less alone💚 love your projects and your personality.
I can’t bear to throw away yarn of any sorts. I’ve been knitting Christmas ornaments - little stockings, mittens and hats for the tree 🎄 Feel better!
Such great ideas!
Lovely 😍
I really like the ear warmers for something quick to throw on and won't get stuck in your bun pins like a hat. I'm definitely going to be stash busting some bulky yarn with one or 2 later this month
another terrific video
I think your work for others is a great idea. I do a lot of 'give away' projects when I am unwell, there are always people in need and an attractive, mindful, hand made item is a great boost for people. I consider my attention to detail - colour and pattern choice etc, an extra gift to the recipient. Also making something 'trendy' is a superb idea.
We are just into summer here in Australia, so now I am making in advance, so next cold season I have a bunch of things to forward to those in need.
RE:: left over litttle pieces. You mentioned pompoms, why not make some mixed yarn pom poms? Strung together they make cute nursery decorations for some new baby or can individually can be added to a fun hat.
Tassles are also something you can do with very small amounts of yarn.
Hope you have a less stressful December.
Whenever I take a look through my stash, I always give myself permission to donate or sell any yarns in my stash that aren’t bringing me joy or making me want to use them anymore. It can be tough to let them go, but I always feel better when they’re not staring at me anymore 😅 I love your chevron jumper - it looks so nice!
Also when it comes to stash scraps, my friend Bee (of the Maker Bee podcast) made Christmas ornaments with hers. She put a bunch of scraps inside those clear plastic ball ornaments (she did similar colours together) and she loves them because they’re a time capsule of her makes).
I use scraps to crochet blankets for pet shelters. I too am basically home bound other than going to the Dr. I found crocheting for others and getting a cat has done more for my health than most medications! Most charities will ask for washable, durable acrylic.
Oh my, I am so glad I chanced on your channel.
I have long covid, previously very active and involved in all sorts of stuff at the school I used to work at and a keen hiker and gardener. Anyway, learning to adapt to and accept my limitations has been very tough. So, to give myself some purpose and a sense of achievement and success I have just taught myself to crochet and I am loving it!! You're right about the act of making to gift, just made 4 hats for kids and have blankets on project. Yes, I'm struggling learning to pace myself but it's doing wonders for my mental health.
I wish I could sew, your dresses are so very beautiful and you're a joy and inspiration to watch. Thank you for bringing us this content despite your own struggles, I think you are amazing.
Sending love, light and healing hugs 🥰
Hey, perhaps you could make a small blanket "garden" with wee cabbages, potatoes plants, etc ?! Might have to learn some embroidery, but how wonderful a gift for a gardener ! Maybe some tiny trowels, rakes, etc. ?!
Reach out to gardening clubs- they might LOVE something like this for a 'Year end Fundraiser' ?!
I am also thinking a flower garden would be lovely as well 😊 ?! Perhaps a monthly "flower" ?!
I don't know how useful this info is given the difference in geographic location but I've been doing research into my own regional folkwear (East- NL) for the past few years and the shawls worn in the mid 19th century were indeed HUGE. 150x150cm wasn't uncommon and bigger sizes did exist too.
Silk, cotton wool, paisley/kashmir-style shawls, woven, knitted, crocheted, didn't matter much. It wasn't until the end of the 19th century that they decreased to about 100x100cm before being replaced by capes & pelerines.
From what I gather, these shawls functioned as modern-day coats so a bigger size makes sense to keep yourself warm , especially in winter :)
Thank you for this! I'm pretty certain after more research that my tension is about right so this was indeed supposed to be a MASSIVE shawl. Mine will still be pretty huge so I'm on the right track ☺️
I much prefer my shawls huge. I like to wrap the points around my waist and tie in the back. It keeps them out of the way and makes sure my chest stays warm. I look like an old lady, but idgaf lol.
I have decided that for myself, life is too short to sweat the stash! I’m a single mom of 2. I also have chronic illness. Yarn brings me joy! So I’m building a yarn wall out of peg board rather than hiding it like a dirty s secret, I’m celebrating the abundance!(Though I absolutely respect and very much enjoy watching your process. Sometimes setting limits makes a fun creative challenge. )
Stash knitting hats etc for people who need them, what a brilliant idea! (And why didn't I think of it sooner?!). We've got a table at church with donated coats etc in various sizes for anyone who needs them, & a top-up shop once a week. So I'll use stash to make lovely things and pop on the table.
You are an inspiration to me and keep me crocheting, sewing and experimenting despite managing chronic arthritis pain and depression.
I have found your suggestions for working on projects despite pain issues very helpful. Thank you.
scrap yarn like the first one is always great for wrapping presents, i find! makes it more unique :)
Claude, we are with you my dear. I am disabled also, and think of you and send you love and kind thoughts from Canada. My -grand-mother used to use these cones of yarn for shawls. They were so beautiful. Believe me, you will want to use the shawl when it is chilly and you just need something for your shoulders, and back while watching TV or in bed. I miss her so much even after 30 years of loosing her.
We need a November update because this is so awesome to watch! 😅
Oh how exciting! I love all the crochet this month! I still haven't invested in knitting needles so it's fun to see. That pink scarf in particular is lovely. I feel like someone will treasure that. I LOVE your blue and white ripple blanket. Even if it stays a "bed scarf" or whatever the bits that protect from shoes are called, it's still very pretty.
And I am very excited about the historical patterns. I downloaded several recently and haven't been brave enough to make anything yet. I'm thinking a nightgown yoke might be something I can handle with the materials I have thrifted recently. I even found a ball of 150 crochet thread and feel like lace is probably what I need to make with that
Oooh I love the sound of the yoke! I know Engineering Knits has made something similar and I was very jealous. My crochet isn't quite that good yet so I'll keep practicing 💚
@Retro Claude I saw her video and really enjoyed it! She's a clever fingered person. Mine are kinda slow. I don't claim to be particularly advanced at crochet (as I started in October 😅), but I am stubborn and willing to rip stuff out multiple times lol. I'll say having had to seam rip completed French seams makes frogging seem less daunting 🤷♀️ I'm a "into the deep end" crafter
That blue lace top will look spectacular on you. The colour is beautiful and suits you. The knot itself is also lovely.
I love to collect my yarn scraps into a jar and then use them as stuffing for pillows/stuffed animals/other things that I would typically use polyfil for. You could also use that rainbow bit for a pompom that could then be attached to a hat of a different color!
Hello. I would knit or crochet a coaster with that special bit of yarn. It'll make you smile when you use it for your cup or mug. I've been on a stash down journey for almost a year. I didn't add mine up but wish I had. I've emptied three large totes of yarn. I'm really enjoying your channel. Thank you!
When I have a bunch of odds and ends of yarn left over I combine them all into one big ball (using a magic knot) and use that to make a scrap blanket! Knotting them all together at the beginning makes it easier to just knit and then you don't have any ends to deal with afterwards, which is s bonus
I enjoy these stashbusting videos! Please keep them coming😌
I love the look of the 1940s lace top! Excited to see how it turns out 😁
That shawl would make a great baby blanket :)
For your little bits of yarn- pompoms, tassels, granny squares🥰
When I was a kid we made tiny yarn "people" with bits of yarn. Very similar to how yo do a "pim pom", but less scissor work !
Perhaps they could be made as "keychains" ?!
Another idea with small scapes is make a magic ball joining them altogether then crochet a C2C blanket I have made several for gifts and donations and they look fabulous everyone loves them and I also have one for myself
regarding crochet clothing - i think garments crocheted using thread or fingering weight yarn would be up your alley! definitely more hard on the hands and wrists, but it produces some lovely and delicate results that you simply just can't achieve with heavier weight yarn.
Love these stash busting videos. Kind of watching them in reverse chronological order, but oh well. I recently spent a bunch of time using up my ugly stash or little tiny stashes by making a knitted granny square afghan. The pattern I found was designed as a kind of blanket sampler with each square using a different stitch or pattern. It's from a ton of different yarns and I accidentally sewed the blocks into a square instead of a rectangle which has made it a bit of an awkward blanket to use. However it lives on my couch in the living room and I just love how it turned out. It's all kinds of colors and textures from all the different yarns and it's just great.
I crochet my scraps into really long chains and use it in place of ribbon when wrapping presents!
Hello dear Claude from Alberta Canada!
I just send you a big you tube hug for your wonderful charity knitting. I think you made such a wise choice for dampened spirits and so much a benefit for others
As you were describing the real need for warmth for many in Britain 🎉❤
Kelli in Edmonton
(A Nana of 13 grandkids and a long time knitter)
For that lace top, here's a useful trick I was taught with interchangeables: if you find your flat tension is different because of your purl tension, you can change out one of the needles on your interchangeables so you're doing the knit rows in say, a 5 mm and the purl rows in a 5.5 mm to even out tension
I love your chevron sweater, it suits you so so well! I love that you donate your items and bust your stash at the same time. I am more on the buying side ride now 🙈 Big hugs from Belgium
The chevron jumper came out beautifully 💚💚💚
I really love how the brown top turned out by the way !!
I love that the yoke and waistband of your gorgeous autumn top looks a bit like nahlbinding. That texture is my all time favourite.
Ooooo, make something from a vintage pattern and do a give-a-way for your channel, members or whatever. Someone who watches a lot of your videos might love an vintage 40s oddments knit 😊
I use my yarn scraps for stuffing. You can either felt them with a carding comb or just cut them into little pieces. It's quite therapeutic cutting wool scraps into little pieces and putting them in a bag or box. They soon build up and it's fun to stuff toys or decorations with them
I was wondering if you could use some of your tiny bits to make some ornaments as gifts? Like tiny knit mittens or hats that can hang on a tree? Especially the yarn that you used for that much loved sweater that got so worn out. That way you could keep a tiny version of the sweater you loved that can live as a decoration in your home during the holidays.
I second the last comment that says donate for kids crafts too. Brilliant idea. Also, the totals might seem low but you keep working on projects that will eventually take a big chunk out of your total. The total is definitely not an example of how much work you have done. :)
I would use that multi colored yarn with weird sized scraps and turn that into a Pom Pom for that purple hat. Super cute! So cool that you were able to find uses for yarn that you wouldn’t wear and won’t have to keep in the house after making something out of a sense of guilt. And there’s def someone out there who will love them. Also that orange blouse you were wearing while explaining about the shawl is so cute on you! Love it’s style and your new jumper you showed at the end. Can’t wait to see how next months video goes!
I was thinking the same make a pom pom out of the scraps for the dusty pink hat!
@@rebekkawacherhausenwichman236 def! Especially if you the decreases look funky. Could hide some of not all of it depending on placement and size.
The little bit of yarn left over might be enough for a pom-pom to go on top of another hat. And if it's not enough you can add a different type of yarn and it'll be a multicolored pom-pom.
I use my little bits of yarn to crochet little flowers or leaves to add embellishments to my hats!
as others have said I collect all my scraps for projects that need stuffing. I also would like to thank you for talking about your journey with chronic illness. I started crocheting in light of a recent injury and these videos are helping shift my mindset with some of the persisting symptoms. thanks for the helpful vids!
I always use my tiny scraps that I can't put into a scrap project as stuffing. I hope you feel better soon. You have inspired me to inventory my yarn for the new year and try and stash bust it to get it down to a more reasonable level.
I saw a cute little DIY using scrap yarn. It’s simply just tucking it into a transparent Christmas ornament and then a tag labeling the year. Kind of a cute way to remember yarns you’ve worked with in the year.
Amazing acomplishments, it's really exciting to follow you into this 😊
That off white lace shawl would make a nice bedspread!
Unless you have a cat ! Lol ! Their darn nails ruin my blankets ! 😒
Something I started recently to use up small amounts of yarn, or yarn I just absolutely hated the texture of but it was too tangly and unmanageable to donate, I started turning into pompoms! I'm going to have a massive amount of green yarn left over from my temperature blanket, and I know I never want to work with it ever again (temperature blankets are traumatic events, I swear 🤣) and I saw a project going around recently of using green pompoms to make a rug that looks like moss. It scratches the creative itch for me, uses up some yarn, and also lets me get creative with mix and matching pompom colors with hats! :)
Great. Now I need a moss rug. Do you see what you have done?!?! 😂
Your chevron jumper is gorgeous! I'm so impressed by how productive you are! I have chronic illnesses, rheumatoid arthritis & fibromyalgia, & I really struggle with motivation, even though I do enjoy knitting & crochet.
Something I do with my tiny leftover yarn bits is crochet granny squares from them, and I've been saving all of those squares up to make a blanket from them eventually. I personally love the look of it being scrapped together, so I don't mind if the colors go together or if there are multiple yarns being used in one square, etc. It's going to be a bit of a Frankenstein of a blanket, but I enjoy the look and I've found that it's the best way to use up all of the small leftovers I've got.
As a gal whose Grandmother made similar blankets, I wish I had one she made !
Apologies if I've commented this on another of your videos, but I employ a "2 out, 1 in" system. For every 2 skeins of yarn I crochet or knit, I'm allowed to buy 1 more.
It feels like 2 steps forward, 1 step back, but it allows me to get new yarn in, which excites and inspires me, while still allowing me to (slowly!) destash. :)
Wow, the persistence! You're a knitting machine.... All looking fabulous. I wonder if some needle-felting would dispose of the little ball-ends? Return them to fleece then make some toys!
Haha! I’m 33 and have never and will never wear a bucket hat 🙈 such lovley gifts ❤️ take care
Our yarn scraps we save up all year and at the end of the year make cat toys and crate blankets for animals shelters. Cats love pure wool for toys, and the crate blankets don't have to be pretty so you can throw in pretty much anything you have.
I've started using my tiny yarn oddments for setting aside stitches (like thumb gusset/fingers). A historically accurate way of doing that, I believe. :D I imagine something like the stand-in knitting for an "afterthought" heel or thumb will happen to them in the future, too.
Straggly bits of wool tip- use it to make a big pompom to put on the top of another hat!
I like the Victorian project. Also, your stashbusting looks like mine. (I sew.) I make garments from my stash, finish UFOs but then the alure of the thrift shop or a seasonal project takes over. This time I only bought black fabric (a staple) and just enough vintage fabric to make Christmas themed scrubs
I was tempted to make some "scrubs" as a total beginner sewist ! So simple and still have some from years ago when I was a Veterinary technician! (SO copying pattern = so much easier!)
The thing I love about scrubs is they are SO size inclusive ! Gain 5 lbs, no worries ! Good for around the home wearing as they are a little bit dressier then pajamas!
I’m saving all my bits and pieces to someday turn back into yarn by batting and spinning them, or possibly just turning them into batt that can be used as stuffing for little plushies :)
Oh, and also, I’ve done some small things as stocking stuffer-type gifts where it’s so small that it doesn’t really matter what the yarn is as long as it’s not ugly. Bookmarks, glasses cases, coasters and the like. I made headbands for my friends when we were young, and once a lace choker that fastened with hooks and eyes in the back. I’ve never done dish cloths but they seem like a popular gift item, and there’s always the option of making some kind of Christmas ornament.
All excellent ideas ! I recently saw on IG some crocheted pine trees & snowflakes that could be either ornaments, OR strung together as a swag.
I have a cat, so seldom have a tree, but like the thought of a swag of "snowflakes" with perhaps Xmas lights behind to light them up ?!
lovely ideas, you are a beautiful knitter!
I absolutely sympathize with the malaise that comes with working from stash. My stash is comically large in comparison to yours and yet I still have the same issues of struggling to feel inspired when combining yarn to patterns. I will find a pattern I want to make and then discover I dont have the appropriate yarn, or I will want to make a gift but not have the color that person loves, etc. Sometimes I love having a huge stash but others I feel silly because I still find times I have to buy in to finish or to make something specific. Your series has been very inspirational though :) I've been better at stashbusting and I know your videos are helping with that. Im glad you go so much done this month and hope you're feeling better!
Stash knitting is always harder than it seems! My issue is always things like "bought yarn for a colourwork jumper and of course I have heaps left over because you have to buy yarn in balls and not just exactly the amount you'll need for the colourwork" and then of course there's ALWAYS a ball or half a ball left over whenever I knit a jumper. Which I prefer over having not enough yarn or playing yarn chicken, especially since I usually lengthen jumpers because I have a very long torso. I'm thinking I'll knit a hot water bottle cover as a stash bust. I manage it really well with socks, as I'll always knit one pair with a ball of colourful striped/patterned sock yarn and then use the leftovers stranded with small bits of misc sock yarn to make a stranded pair of socks. But one ball of DK is a lot harder. Claude is doing such a valiant job with this project - I think at this stage of stash knitting I'd start trying to swap or give away or destash!
@@infamoussphere7228 love the thought of hot water bottle cover ! Perhaps tea cozies?! Mittens? Small yarn toys for kids ?!
I use my leftover scraps into dryer balls. Felt them in the washer and dryer
Small quantities of yarn, left over from projects, make great and colorful pompoms. Hoping that helps you bust your stash.
Thank you for this video. I have several chronic illness that render me quite..... almost bedridden for weeks at a time. I am an artist and i feel like I am spiraling out of control sometimes when this happens. The art that gets me through the the rough patches is impossible.
I have been doing tiny projects as best i can lately throughout the flairs. What a beautiful thing you are doing to give hope and warmth in your community ❤
The blue lace top look really nice so far.
If you really don't like the shawl you are making it seems that it would be a good size for a baby blanket.
That chevron sweater is absolutely gorgeous. You have chosen my favourite colours ❤
The shawl looks great. You can stop at anytime. It can be a scarf, wrap, shawl, table cloth or couch throw.
I was just thinking of you and hoping you were doing well. I love these stash bust videos. Hope this next year you do much better health wise. Thanks for sharing your journey
That's so thoughtful making items for others! You're really inspiring!❤️
I saw a scrap idea where they knitted squares using their scraps and then joined them all together for a funky & colorful throw pillow.
I'm so glad you were able to get yourself a nice set of interchangeables! It's so handy to be able to switch need sizes easily and knowing you have them all in the same place
Stash blanket out of your scraps! Crochet it! I’ve made one for my sons camper van! He loves it!
I don’t have a large yarn stash, but having one at all makes me feel pretty stressed out so seeing your series tackling yours has really inspired me to take stock of what I have and get starting knitting/crocheting it down. Some amazing work this month btw
From where I'm standing that cone yarn seems like its be good for crocheted snowflakes. My great-grandmother (i think) made some way back in the day and we still have them and put them on our Christmas tree every year. Definitely something i would recommend if you do winter decorations in your home (and it isnt too challenging/painful)
I seem to recall folks adding dry detergent to the snowflakes that made them "twinkle" !?
I'm saving my scraps to knit up catnip mice for the spca. Also charity!
That is an EXCELLENT IDEA !
I think the colorful yarn would be lovely to edge a solid color headband with. A very nice accent!
okay the ripped beanie looks amazing, It looks store bought, that's gonna make somebody very happy
All of your projects are lovely!
The Victorians sure loved their garter stitch, didn’t they?
I tend to sort my scraps roughly by weight, and attach them together with an invisible join. Once I have enough/when Christmas rolls around, I knit them up by holding several strands together to get an extra chunky weight, and make a quick rib beanie with a MASSIVE pompom. Surprisingly, even when I don't coordinate colors, the variegated effect tends to pull it all together into a cohesive whole. Most years, that's my secret santa gift. If I can't find someone who needs a hat, they go to our local red cross donation bin.