Have you ever thought about trading your stash yarns that you know you won't use? There are people on Ravelry who have stash yarn listed with the status "will trade." You might be able to swap your stash yarn for someone else's 😊 Your green cardigan is absolutely lovely by the way 💚
You sound SO MUCH more cheerful than you did on your "confessional" video. I hope that means the relief of making your channel work for you rather than the other way around, and allowing yourself to relieve yourself of some of the stash has lighten your burden, and caused a real lightness of heart. It was so nice to hear your happy voice again.
I think these are great decisions. Being realistic about what you're going to use is so difficult. I have a long term project where I'm making a ten stitch blanket from my wool oddments. I dislike the idea of hoarding small pieces for mending. It just seems annoying, so instead I've been dumping them into the blanket. I also really enjoy visible mending, so my thought is that I'd rather not have little tiny balls of yarn knocking around and when something gets a hole, I can just use whatever I still have in my stash to fix it. I like the look of a contrasting mend more so than a matching one, so it's a win-win
My granny made that cottage tea cozy! Probably sometime around the 1950s in Canada. My brother has it now as when he was a toddler he liked to wear it as a hat.
Having watched your 6 hour compilation, seeing this update is so cool!! At some point you should stack up of all the projects you’ve made during this stashbusting mission and admire how you’ve turned piles of skeins into such beautiful finished pieces.
I have come to a similar decision about winding yarn into balls. I go through my stash periodically and find what I want to knit over the next .... months and then wind all of them. The effort of getting everything out to wind the yarns means I often don't use yarn. So on a good day I pace myself as best I can and get on with winding.
I hadn't realised how much energy it takes! I'm glad I've batched it so I can just start when I want to but next time I'll pace the winding a bit better!
@@RetroClaude have you considered the electric ball winders that are available now? One might be an option for very low energy days, when even turning a handle can be tough. Interestingly, none of the videos I’ve watched have needed a swift with these, either, so you could probably wind from anywhere in the house, rather than needing a bigger space to open up the skein. And that’s one less thing to find / setup / store as well.
@@soolee8747 I was just thinking there's gotta be an electric winder! Watching this it's so satisfying. I'm not someone who works with yarn generally because I have rheumatoid arthritis and my shoulders elbows wrist and fingers would not be happy with me. When I'm sewing I can at least wear a corset or do things that will support my back but I think it's probably pretty hard to crochet or knit without using your lower arms. 😂 But watching the Winder and the swift spinning is so satisfying from my position of not needing to do anything that takes effort with it. Lol
Yay! What a great update to one of my favourite series! I love that you've managed to basically meet your previous goal whilst also learning along the way what really does work best for you. The new projects sound like they'll be a lot of fun as well. I love your colour choice for the Mohn cardigan as well!
I know I advocated for donations in a previous stash busting video, and there's a very unique set of parameters for everyone to let stuff go like that, but I'm really happy to see it worked for you! I was holding on to a lot of yarn that ranged from 'I bought this when I was 13' to 'this hurts my hands to work with', and for me donating was the best option and took a lot of weight off my shoulders. These videos have really helped me stash down myself, and be more conscious about my purchases! Thanks for keeping us updated! ❤
This comment just made me realised there is fabric in my stash I’ve been hoarding for TWENTYTWO YEARS. I think that’s moved house with me nine times…. Yikes.
I think I've been following this stash busting almost from the start and you should be very proud of yourself you've done so well as far as I remember you started you with 180 something balls, so very well done.
Excellent! I have a similar problem but with a lot more yarn. Your stashbusting compilation really motivates me to do something about it instead of 'forgetting' what I have and buying new yarn whenever I feel like it. Thank you for posting these
I heartily endorse winding the yarn!! I have fatigue as well and used your 6h stash busting compilation for motivation while winding up my entire stash. After not making anything for ages I’ve done some sort of yarn craft nearly every day since then… the more accessible it is the more fun and appealing it is too! 🥰
As someone who only has my very small closet and like 4 large-ish plastic bins to fit my entire yarn stash, I really related to you struggling to get those plastic bins down lmao. I can't believe it's been 2 years of stash busting, because that means i've been watching you for two years!
This is truly my favorite series on "craft-tube" (is that a thing?) it's both so satisfying and aspirational to hear your thought process for sorting your yarn and planning new projects for the future. I can't wait for the inevitable conclusion of the Daisy Blouse saga and to see your finished ranunculus dress! Another idea for getting rid of the yarns you won't use, have you thought about listing them in your shop similar to what you did with your vintage clothes? You could effectively get your money back or at least most of it if you decided to mark them down. Although I can see how that would be extra energy as opposed to simply donating them.
I discovered your account when RUclips suggested your 6 hour compilation which I have just finished. I came here because I NEEDED to know how the daisy dress was doing. I’m quite invested. Thank you because you’ve made me want to use my stash in a more smart way. Instead of just trying to power through projects that don’t interest me because I have the yarn, which was given to me by a well meaning acquaintance. I’m trying to see how I can make things that make sense in my wardrobe even if that means buying extra yarns to make them happen.
Inspired by your stashbusting compliation, I just bought myself a ball winder. I also came to the conclusion that winding skeins was a barrier to knitting them. I've been handwinding centre pull balls for years with just a swift, but a baby ontop of chronic fatigue meant that was no longer viable. I'm really pleased with the decision, and am hoping it will encourage me to work on more stash busting. I'd love to sit down and pull it all out so I know where I am with it like you did in this video, but that's a big job... I really appreciate the effort it has taken you to produce this series for us!
Yay! Progress and in doing so you have realised what you like and don't like so can be more selective as you go. I think you have made great decisions and you seem a bit happier in yourself than when you made the video a few months back about how you will continue with the channel. Glad you have found something that is working for you!
The green sweater is gorgeous. Your destashing logic is spot-on. The emotional support poultry is adorable. I have been meaning to make a lovebird from a kit I bought when I decided to learn to crochet; I look forward to the emotional support it will provide.
A lot of people forget the Girl Scouts (or Guides) when they think of places to donate. Even more generous would be to give of your time and volunteer to teach a GS meeting or two on crochet, knitting, and other yarn crafts. I also made yarn balls out of even the smallest lengths of yarn and used them to teach myself Tunisian crochet. The finished pads were large enough to be used as sleeping mats for the cats at the Humane Society. Win-win.
Love the new look of your stash! It feels less chaotic through the screen. I hope it does for you, too. I SO identify with the barriers to starting projects. Anything that is a multi-step process (like having to fetch the yarn box, fetch and set up the swift and ball winder, wind multiple skeins) is just off the table most days. I’m taking tiny (teeny tiny) baby steps in the direction of saying I have energy for step one only and doing only that before resting long as it takes to have the energy to move to the next one. I live alone, though, and my dog isn’t inconvenienced if my swift and ball winder are up for an extended period. Speaking of which, I’m endorsing tea cosies as an energy saving measure. I tend to consume multiple cups of tea while knitting, so my teapot and cosy prevent me having to get up and stand around to boil the kettle multiple times. 😊
wake up babe new retro claude stashbusting video just dropped!! i was so excited to see the notification i switched from scrolling on my phone to watching on the to to get the full experience 🙈 also when i saw that bag of wool in the beginning i was like omg is that the mohn sweater and i am SO excited to see you make it!!
I´m so proud of you! In this series you got so stressed about that prozess. Now you feel almost calrm. You´ve made some new rules and thats a legit way to reduce your yarn stash!!!!
It is so refreshing to see someone with a "normal" amount of stash of odds and ends they got and kept over a long period of time. Also to hear it like "Have a mending stash, archive stash and then for specific project". I don't hear that kind of thinking in the fiber/ fabric creating world often. The other day I saw a fabric stash busting video where I couldn't believe the sheer amount of stuff... I think most of the viewers can't afford these big amounts of things and have to calculate more per project than otherwise. So thank you for this refreshing video and also showing ways to make things with oddments (new word I learned today!)
Loved the video! It's great to see that you're feeling more positive about your stash, rather than it being a burden to try and use up every bit. I usually buy wool for a specific project, so most of my stash has (or had) a purpose - but I've been learning to accept that I can change my mind, just because I bought the materials for something doesn't mean I have to make it if it doesn't interest me any more. So in some ways I now have a bigger stash because lots of wool isn't earmarked for a particular project, but it also feels quite nice to have some quantities available if I decide to start something on a whim.
I really like the idea of questioning what's been stopping you from doing particular planned projects. I think I need to go through my sewing stash with that question in mind.
Hi Claude, curating our stash is a never ending task isn't it ? You're learning as you go and so do we ! I'm devoutly following your efforts and applying myself in turn to "engage with my stash" : I used to love buying yarn in charity shops (those bargains ! ) and I still do but I'm more discerning about it. I recently engage into a stash bursting project that is also a no brain project, the Excavation Blankets, and I've learned that the most difficult thing was to allow myself to take time with it, to breathe throuht it and enjoy simply knitting instead, so I gave myself permission to linger and know it won't be donne before next winter ! So thank you for leading the way !
When I first started watching your stashbusting videos almost two years ago as a newbie crocheter, I was really inspired by your methodical way of breaking down big projects into smaller chunks. This was when I was trying to work towards my own goals as a college sophomore, and these videos have been a welcome companion as I tried to adapt, fight procrastination, work hard, and avoid burnout. In particular, your advice about goalsetting “good, better, best” has helped me feel a lot better about what I can accomplish. In a couple weeks, I finally graduate with a bachelor’s after completing a research thesis. And I get to start on my dream career this summer: studying the brain in a research lab! Although this is a crafts channel, I’ve found a lot of your experiences really relatable and your advice applicable to my situation. Thank you for these videos and I’m excited to see you continue this stashbusting project (and whatever direction your channel goes towards next!) (By the way, your knitting content has inspired me to put some of my first real paycheck this summer into knitting needles!)
I think it's completely valid to re-think what yarns you actually want to stash-bust. Because, like you said, leftover yarn for mending would never leave the stash. :) (also leaving a comment for the algorithm)
I use a peg board to organize my yarn stash! I would totally recommend it for anyone that likes to display all their “Treasures” but also doesn’t want to take up a bunch of space.
I recently went through a similar dilemma and decided to give away two huge boxes of my yarn. It ended up being such a good decisions because I was able to give the yarn to people who were actually excited to use it! Now I can prioritize yarn I'm actually happy to work with. Anyways, I love each stashbusting video you make!!!
You are doing so well! Keeping steam on long term goals can be hard. The mix of short and long form update is fantastic! Keep it up, you will get there 💪🏾 I like that you have split categories for different yarn uses. I do agree that stash yarn is the material you are going to make a project with. Love your yarn archive idea. I might start one too!
Love the update. Its great to figure out that something youve been thinking of as one thing (the STASH) is actually a bunch of smaller things (the mending collection + the planned projects + the leftover yarns that are bad textures, etc)
I hate shorts, I've seen some of yours, but I usually like to put on these longer videos while crafting or working and messing around with the shorts is just a pain, so these updates are really nice to see. These videos are also really inspirational. I have a large yarn, fabric and embroidery stash and seeing your progress is helpful for ideas on stash busting. They also inspire me to "shop from the stash" when I get an idea for a new project instead of buying more. Thank you for sharing again!
Yay! So happy for another stashbusting video and that you’ve made progress, come to some decisions and know what you want from your stash and future projects. I especially love the idea of keeping yarn specifically for mending. Great idea (and makes sense that people used to do it historically). Also, your research on service yarn and WW2 knitting history is fascinating. Makes me want to do some historical knitting myself! ❤
My goodness, has it been nearly two years already?? Well done on reaching your first stashbusting milestone and my heartfelt thanks for inspiring me to focus on my own stash-down goals. When you said you could knit from stash for five years I looked at my yarn and realized I could knit for ten. I now have enough yarn to last me probably eight years and I've also finally been able to let go of some yarn that I'm definitely not excited to ever work with. Progress! Looking forward to cheering you on as you continue on this journey to a smaller yarn stash! (Also I suddenly have an urge to knit stockings, what have you done to me???)
I did something similar a few months ago, I went through my stash and took out all the things I wouldn't be using, and asked my sister-in-law (who knits a lot) if she wanted any of it, and she took a bunch of it. I'm probably going to go through again and see if there's anything I won't need because that was almost a year ago, and she's willing to take more. It's nice figuring out what you won't use, and instead of staring at it going "ugh" whenever you see it, you get it out where someone else can.
also, don't apologize! I know I'd LOVE to get a tea cozy from a friend, it's a lovely thing, and as long as someone has a teapot for it, I think it's a great gift. (I may be biased lol)
It’s great to see how far you’ve come with the stashbusting having followed it from the start! A random thought, but the crocheted star that you really like the yarn, could you use it to make a little scarf for Douglas to help with his neck? Then you get to keep it too and it has a purpose! Win win!
Reducing stash or finally using the yarns you bought/spun is so rewarding. It's a relief to get the "I really should" yarn out of the house, and to enjoy the ones left. Though I would never store yarn wound up in balls or cakes, I'm far too scared of finding generations of moths in there at some point.
I made my Grandma a knitted cottage tea cozy when I was about 12, or 13. I think it was a reprint of an earlier pattern, I can't remember which magazine it was in perhaps Woman, or Woman's Realm as those were the ones Mum and Grandma had. She used to bring it out whenever we went over, it was a bit wonky, but very cute and fun to make.❤
I'm honestly so interested in the Victorian knitted corset just from a history perspective, so if you were to make that (or finish making it, whichever it is) and make a video on your knowledge of the pattern and history, I'd definitely watch it. I think I remember you mentioning knitted corsets or similar in your Enola Holmes rational dress video, which was likewise very interesting history-wise, so even though you're not really doing that kind of constume making any more and wouldn't be wearing it, focusing on the history, research, and your expertise on the subject could still make it a viable video idea.
I find it amusing that I watch these, even though I don't knit or crochet (perhaps it's your accent. My husband's late grandparents were Yorkshire folk). PS I love knitted tea cosies! My son accidentally burned ours 😢 Time to drop hints to my kind knitting neighbour.
Hooray! Congrats on your new stash count! And I agree, if it’s not “fun” or “comfortable” to use, send it out! Part of knitting is the process, and if there’s no reason to work with unpleasant yarns or fabric! Would totally love to see dyeing the yarn, and I think that Mohn cardigan looks great!
Absolutely spot on episode…know when to hold, when to fold and when to walk away from stash yarn. So glad to hear your decision to separate your yarn; some to charity, some to use as vintage examples, some to save as a mending ‘thread’. You look like a weight has come off your shoulders. Happy knitting!
Your original stash busting video was a huge inspiration for me! I've been knitting from stash for almost 1.5 years now (also these videos are my absolute favourite on youtube)
I've been going through my stash as well. I'm on a hunt for certain things but can't quite unpack everything just now. We have the attic to finish before I can do it. But I'm convinced I won't purchase yarn for at least 10 years. I've also been frogging certain things from when I taught at a big box craft store and thinking of ways to repurpose other things from the same time period. Luckily my knitting guild and my crochet guild have charities where a load of things can be donated with little or no modifications. For the stuff you don't want to use or can't use, sell it
I always set aside at least 25g of yarn for future mending of sweaters. I store them in nice jars. I label my oddments with the pattern name, needle, gauge, yarn brand and name, and FO date. It might be an overkill, but I will know exactly which sweater it belongs to (I hope). I love your approach to donations. You’re being realistic about what to expect from yourself, which is a very good place to be. Did you wind all that yarn in one sitting? WHEW! Winding yarn wears me out so quickly. Go you!
So excited for this video! And on a morning I'm stuck in bed trying to work up the energy to go to my kniiting guild meeting today is perfect! I'm glad you decided to donate some of your yarn. It's such a weight off, and so quickly. I started stashbusting about 20 months ago, I counted up that I had at least 755 50g balls! My stash was built around a charity I make for, and between the changes they have made to what they will accept, and what I can manage to make now (fibro with really bad hand pain) Most of my stash was no longer bringing me joy. I've been trying to work my way through it, but decided to just sell a whole lot of it off as it wasn't bringing me joy any more, and I figured that I could use the money to buy yarn I can use that will make me happy. I'm down to 287.5 balls. I still need to go through again, I've designated one drawer to be my ideal stash size, but I'm slowly getting there. And I did just use some of the money I've made selling my old stash to buy a sweaters quantity of gorgeous yarn to make myself something special.
If that star in pretty yarn sings to you, what about using it as a coaster/mug rug for tea? Then it has a purpose, doesn't need to be reworked, and lets you enjoy that beautiful yarn in an everyday setting!
I second this idea! I have a crocheted hexagon I made in the most gorgeous yarn. I was making a bag but my hands dont really let me crochet anymore so I was never going to be able to make all the other hexagons in time. (it was for a fibre festival we have in Australia, everyone is given a pattern to make something to wear so we can look at all the beautiful variations everyone makes while shopping for yarn and watching demos etc) So now it is my coaster next to my bed, and I bought the most gorgeous tea mug in matching colours and it makes me smile every time I look at it!
I agree that your Mending Yarn and your Archive Yarn are not part of your stash. They have a different purpose, you know what that purpose is --> No Guilt. :-) I LOVE your stash-busting videos! I am not a knitter (though you have inspired me to start trying it), but I think your stash-busting thoughts apply to anything one has in their posession that is overwhelming them in any way. Also, I would ADORE owning a tea cozy knit by you!! ❤
This was such a quality video! I really enjoyed the historical interlude, you presented it in such an engaging way! Would be fun if there are accounts of wool pilfering hahaha. I’m never set up for anything in my life and I really struggle to initiate projects for that reason too. Loved seeing you work on prep stuff. When the energy and the initiative are available it’s so nice to be able to do something helpful for your future self like that. I hope having skeins ready to go makes you feel joy and motivation. Also would definitely be excited to see the dyeing, cozy, or stockings! Or whatever else inspires you, but I hope you’re not putting too much pressure on yourself and are at least having more fun than you are losing energy.
You might already know this but Ravelry will update the amount of yarn you have left if you create a project page for your project then select the yarn used from your stash. When done the project, update the project with the exact amount of yarn you used. Your stash of the yarn will then show what’s left to use.
I definitely relate to the skein winding thing! I have to take advantage of a good day and wind several skeins in one go. Then I overdo it and don't want to wind yarn again for ages
Hi. Today, I also spent quite a bit of time winding skeins into cakes. Beautiful hand dyed merino sock yarn, which I am turning into a crochet summer top. X
Oh yes, I have wound up all my stash... it was so fun! I finally have the energy to do so after getting rid of most of my ME. I have 20 or 30 year old yarns too. And a lot more yarn than you have. But I have started to tackle it in 2021. Sadly... buying more yarn... I need to get on top of my yarn stash!
Thanks for this lovely chatty video. It was good to hear your thoughts as you processed your stash. Seeing all those fresh cakes was delicious. With your thoughts about dyeing yarn, I've been watching a lot of Chemknits lately. She's such good value; inspiring and informative.
Seeing the stash total come all the way down to 100 made me breathe a sympathetic sigh of relief! I have a craft supply swap coming up next month at my local library so it's a good time for me to take a long look at my stash and decide what I'm for sure not going to use and exchange it for something else
Loved this episode. Been following since you started this journey and am in awe with your achievements, your process, the way you pace yourself. It seems like you made some very sensible decisions about your stash, well done! And, I watched it while knitting on my own 2 year long saga (cotton yarn, tiny needles....but really want the end product).
Loved the dress cardi combo at the start of the video. I to have Engineering knits cardigan on my to knit list especially as she has made bigger sizes, i need 42" to fit my bust.
So nice to see you upbeat again! I think taking the archival yarn out of stash is an excellent idea. The yellow yarn is so pretty, you could make a marvellous short-sleeved top or accessory with it. I understand what you mean about not having enough money to give away sub-par yarn, but would you give someone advice to stick with a spouse they don't like anymore just because they're not sure if they can get another one? Having it hanging around is a burden. There are always new deals on yarn, and even though yarn might be expensive, using fine yarn lasts a long time.
Thank you for the lovely video! I know you're not a makeup channel but I loved the coordinated lipstick with the dress in the beginning of the video. Also, I'm excited about new stocking project in the future, as I want to try knitting ones at some point for myself. I loved the candy colors of the yarns that go to the blanket, I'm sure it'll look lovely in the end! I also keep yarn for mending and I think it's very practical practise. Once again, thank you for the lovely video, I've also kept up with the shorts but I'll admit that I missed a long form video on knitting from you. :)
I like your thoughts on stash purpose. I don't think I would count anything in my actual 'Stash' except for yarns to be used in knitting projects. Then have a separate bag/box, etc for educational &/or mending yarn.
Love the video. Maybe make a vintage mending kit? I'd watch that video too. I think it's exciting to see everyone stash down. We all got a lot of yarn, and it's really fun to see it used up. All the best! - Kimberly
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Have you ever thought about trading your stash yarns that you know you won't use? There are people on Ravelry who have stash yarn listed with the status "will trade." You might be able to swap your stash yarn for someone else's 😊 Your green cardigan is absolutely lovely by the way 💚
You sound SO MUCH more cheerful than you did on your "confessional" video. I hope that means the relief of making your channel work for you rather than the other way around, and allowing yourself to relieve yourself of some of the stash has lighten your burden, and caused a real lightness of heart.
It was so nice to hear your happy voice again.
You could get a display box for the yarn you don't want to use but wwat to keep 😊 you've made some great decisions!
Oooh! I like that! Keep the dust off and give it a place to shine!
I seen this girl on RUclips had hers in a big glass cylinder it looked awesome. Or u could use a big vase.
I think these are great decisions. Being realistic about what you're going to use is so difficult. I have a long term project where I'm making a ten stitch blanket from my wool oddments. I dislike the idea of hoarding small pieces for mending. It just seems annoying, so instead I've been dumping them into the blanket. I also really enjoy visible mending, so my thought is that I'd rather not have little tiny balls of yarn knocking around and when something gets a hole, I can just use whatever I still have in my stash to fix it. I like the look of a contrasting mend more so than a matching one, so it's a win-win
That's an excellent strategy. It's all about making your stash work for you, and not just sit there feeding the moths 😅
My granny made that cottage tea cozy! Probably sometime around the 1950s in Canada. My brother has it now as when he was a toddler he liked to wear it as a hat.
Oh wow!!! That's incredible!!
How cute!
You should be proud of yourself! I've been watching this since the beginning and you've made a lot of progress.
Having watched your 6 hour compilation, seeing this update is so cool!! At some point you should stack up of all the projects you’ve made during this stashbusting mission and admire how you’ve turned piles of skeins into such beautiful finished pieces.
I would enjoy seeing this too!
I have come to a similar decision about winding yarn into balls. I go through my stash periodically and find what I want to knit over the next .... months and then wind all of them. The effort of getting everything out to wind the yarns means I often don't use yarn. So on a good day I pace myself as best I can and get on with winding.
I hadn't realised how much energy it takes! I'm glad I've batched it so I can just start when I want to but next time I'll pace the winding a bit better!
@@RetroClaude have you considered the electric ball winders that are available now? One might be an option for very low energy days, when even turning a handle can be tough. Interestingly, none of the videos I’ve watched have needed a swift with these, either, so you could probably wind from anywhere in the house, rather than needing a bigger space to open up the skein. And that’s one less thing to find / setup / store as well.
@@soolee8747 I was just thinking there's gotta be an electric winder! Watching this it's so satisfying. I'm not someone who works with yarn generally because I have rheumatoid arthritis and my shoulders elbows wrist and fingers would not be happy with me. When I'm sewing I can at least wear a corset or do things that will support my back but I think it's probably pretty hard to crochet or knit without using your lower arms. 😂
But watching the Winder and the swift spinning is so satisfying from my position of not needing to do anything that takes effort with it. Lol
Yay! What a great update to one of my favourite series! I love that you've managed to basically meet your previous goal whilst also learning along the way what really does work best for you. The new projects sound like they'll be a lot of fun as well. I love your colour choice for the Mohn cardigan as well!
I know I advocated for donations in a previous stash busting video, and there's a very unique set of parameters for everyone to let stuff go like that, but I'm really happy to see it worked for you!
I was holding on to a lot of yarn that ranged from 'I bought this when I was 13' to 'this hurts my hands to work with', and for me donating was the best option and took a lot of weight off my shoulders.
These videos have really helped me stash down myself, and be more conscious about my purchases! Thanks for keeping us updated! ❤
This comment just made me realised there is fabric in my stash I’ve been hoarding for TWENTYTWO YEARS. I think that’s moved house with me nine times…. Yikes.
I think I've been following this stash busting almost from the start and you should be very proud of yourself you've done so well as far as I remember you started you with 180 something balls, so very well done.
I did! 184 I think! And even with my sneaky change of definition that's still a great achievement 😁
Excellent! I have a similar problem but with a lot more yarn. Your stashbusting compilation really motivates me to do something about it instead of 'forgetting' what I have and buying new yarn whenever I feel like it. Thank you for posting these
Shopping your stash can be so fun! You find things you've forgotten about!
That dress and sweater combo is fab!
I love it too! I would absolutely wear both items and feel especially cute ❤️
I heartily endorse winding the yarn!! I have fatigue as well and used your 6h stash busting compilation for motivation while winding up my entire stash. After not making anything for ages I’ve done some sort of yarn craft nearly every day since then… the more accessible it is the more fun and appealing it is too! 🥰
As someone who only has my very small closet and like 4 large-ish plastic bins to fit my entire yarn stash, I really related to you struggling to get those plastic bins down lmao. I can't believe it's been 2 years of stash busting, because that means i've been watching you for two years!
This is truly my favorite series on "craft-tube" (is that a thing?) it's both so satisfying and aspirational to hear your thought process for sorting your yarn and planning new projects for the future. I can't wait for the inevitable conclusion of the Daisy Blouse saga and to see your finished ranunculus dress!
Another idea for getting rid of the yarns you won't use, have you thought about listing them in your shop similar to what you did with your vintage clothes? You could effectively get your money back or at least most of it if you decided to mark them down. Although I can see how that would be extra energy as opposed to simply donating them.
Look at all you have accomplished! It’s great!
Those crochet stars could make a good coasters as a gift
You gave me a flashback to all the books I've read where wartime characters eternally have a khaki bundle of knitting for the troops on the go!
I discovered your account when RUclips suggested your 6 hour compilation which I have just finished. I came here because I NEEDED to know how the daisy dress was doing. I’m quite invested. Thank you because you’ve made me want to use my stash in a more smart way. Instead of just trying to power through projects that don’t interest me because I have the yarn, which was given to me by a well meaning acquaintance. I’m trying to see how I can make things that make sense in my wardrobe even if that means buying extra yarns to make them happen.
Inspired by your stashbusting compliation, I just bought myself a ball winder. I also came to the conclusion that winding skeins was a barrier to knitting them. I've been handwinding centre pull balls for years with just a swift, but a baby ontop of chronic fatigue meant that was no longer viable. I'm really pleased with the decision, and am hoping it will encourage me to work on more stash busting. I'd love to sit down and pull it all out so I know where I am with it like you did in this video, but that's a big job... I really appreciate the effort it has taken you to produce this series for us!
Yay! Progress and in doing so you have realised what you like and don't like so can be more selective as you go. I think you have made great decisions and you seem a bit happier in yourself than when you made the video a few months back about how you will continue with the channel. Glad you have found something that is working for you!
The green sweater is gorgeous.
Your destashing logic is spot-on.
The emotional support poultry is adorable. I have been meaning to make a lovebird from a kit I bought when I decided to learn to crochet; I look forward to the emotional support it will provide.
A lot of people forget the Girl Scouts (or Guides) when they think of places to donate. Even more generous would be to give of your time and volunteer to teach a GS meeting or two on crochet, knitting, and other yarn crafts. I also made yarn balls out of even the smallest lengths of yarn and used them to teach myself Tunisian crochet. The finished pads were large enough to be used as sleeping mats for the cats at the Humane Society. Win-win.
Totally agree with reclassifying the yarn into categories! Love your videos and wish you all the best!
Yeeeees! I only just opened this in a tab but I'm already smiling ear to ear. Love the stashbusting!
plus of course this is going into the Retro Claude chronological playlist :)
17:45 I love your jumper!
Love the new look of your stash! It feels less chaotic through the screen. I hope it does for you, too.
I SO identify with the barriers to starting projects. Anything that is a multi-step process (like having to fetch the yarn box, fetch and set up the swift and ball winder, wind multiple skeins) is just off the table most days. I’m taking tiny (teeny tiny) baby steps in the direction of saying I have energy for step one only and doing only that before resting long as it takes to have the energy to move to the next one. I live alone, though, and my dog isn’t inconvenienced if my swift and ball winder are up for an extended period.
Speaking of which, I’m endorsing tea cosies as an energy saving measure. I tend to consume multiple cups of tea while knitting, so my teapot and cosy prevent me having to get up and stand around to boil the kettle multiple times. 😊
wake up babe new retro claude stashbusting video just dropped!! i was so excited to see the notification i switched from scrolling on my phone to watching on the to to get the full experience 🙈 also when i saw that bag of wool in the beginning i was like omg is that the mohn sweater and i am SO excited to see you make it!!
I´m so proud of you! In this series you got so stressed about that prozess. Now you feel almost calrm. You´ve made some new rules and thats a legit way to reduce your yarn stash!!!!
It is so refreshing to see someone with a "normal" amount of stash of odds and ends they got and kept over a long period of time. Also to hear it like "Have a mending stash, archive stash and then for specific project". I don't hear that kind of thinking in the fiber/ fabric creating world often. The other day I saw a fabric stash busting video where I couldn't believe the sheer amount of stuff... I think most of the viewers can't afford these big amounts of things and have to calculate more per project than otherwise. So thank you for this refreshing video and also showing ways to make things with oddments (new word I learned today!)
Loved the video! It's great to see that you're feeling more positive about your stash, rather than it being a burden to try and use up every bit. I usually buy wool for a specific project, so most of my stash has (or had) a purpose - but I've been learning to accept that I can change my mind, just because I bought the materials for something doesn't mean I have to make it if it doesn't interest me any more. So in some ways I now have a bigger stash because lots of wool isn't earmarked for a particular project, but it also feels quite nice to have some quantities available if I decide to start something on a whim.
I really like the idea of questioning what's been stopping you from doing particular planned projects. I think I need to go through my sewing stash with that question in mind.
Same!
omg a new stash busting video means today is a good day ❤
Hi Claude, curating our stash is a never ending task isn't it ? You're learning as you go and so do we ! I'm devoutly following your efforts and applying myself in turn to "engage with my stash" : I used to love buying yarn in charity shops (those bargains ! ) and I still do but I'm more discerning about it. I recently engage into a stash bursting project that is also a no brain project, the Excavation Blankets, and I've learned that the most difficult thing was to allow myself to take time with it, to breathe throuht it and enjoy simply knitting instead, so I gave myself permission to linger and know it won't be donne before next winter !
So thank you for leading the way !
When I first started watching your stashbusting videos almost two years ago as a newbie crocheter, I was really inspired by your methodical way of breaking down big projects into smaller chunks. This was when I was trying to work towards my own goals as a college sophomore, and these videos have been a welcome companion as I tried to adapt, fight procrastination, work hard, and avoid burnout. In particular, your advice about goalsetting “good, better, best” has helped me feel a lot better about what I can accomplish.
In a couple weeks, I finally graduate with a bachelor’s after completing a research thesis. And I get to start on my dream career this summer: studying the brain in a research lab! Although this is a crafts channel, I’ve found a lot of your experiences really relatable and your advice applicable to my situation. Thank you for these videos and I’m excited to see you continue this stashbusting project (and whatever direction your channel goes towards next!)
(By the way, your knitting content has inspired me to put some of my first real paycheck this summer into knitting needles!)
Wise decisions and I love the fact that you seem a lot happier with the projects. And the projects divers to follow for all.
Congratulations on being so close to under 100!!!!!
Proud of you, Claude! This has been a huge project and you’ve made huge progress in 2 years.
I think it's completely valid to re-think what yarns you actually want to stash-bust. Because, like you said, leftover yarn for mending would never leave the stash. :)
(also leaving a comment for the algorithm)
I loved the winding session. Doesn't sound like it was your favorite part of making this video, but I find it so soothing to watch.
I use a peg board to organize my yarn stash! I would totally recommend it for anyone that likes to display all their “Treasures” but also doesn’t want to take up a bunch of space.
Love these stash busting videos so much Claude! and that green cardigan is beautiful!! 💚
I recently went through a similar dilemma and decided to give away two huge boxes of my yarn. It ended up being such a good decisions because I was able to give the yarn to people who were actually excited to use it! Now I can prioritize yarn I'm actually happy to work with. Anyways, I love each stashbusting video you make!!!
You are doing so well! Keeping steam on long term goals can be hard. The mix of short and long form update is fantastic! Keep it up, you will get there 💪🏾
I like that you have split categories for different yarn uses. I do agree that stash yarn is the material you are going to make a project with.
Love your yarn archive idea. I might start one too!
That dress and cardigan look absolutely stunning on you!
You've done so well! It makes me happy to see you realize it :)
Incidentally, that is an excellent sweater
Love the update. Its great to figure out that something youve been thinking of as one thing (the STASH) is actually a bunch of smaller things (the mending collection + the planned projects + the leftover yarns that are bad textures, etc)
I really enjoy your stash busting videos! I’ve watched them several times. ❤
Just writing to say thank you for another wonderful video! Everything you make is very beautiful and I can't wait to see your new projects!
I hate shorts, I've seen some of yours, but I usually like to put on these longer videos while crafting or working and messing around with the shorts is just a pain, so these updates are really nice to see.
These videos are also really inspirational. I have a large yarn, fabric and embroidery stash and seeing your progress is helpful for ideas on stash busting. They also inspire me to "shop from the stash" when I get an idea for a new project instead of buying more.
Thank you for sharing again!
Yay! So happy for another stashbusting video and that you’ve made progress, come to some decisions and know what you want from your stash and future projects. I especially love the idea of keeping yarn specifically for mending. Great idea (and makes sense that people used to do it historically). Also, your research on service yarn and WW2 knitting history is fascinating. Makes me want to do some historical knitting myself! ❤
My goodness, has it been nearly two years already?? Well done on reaching your first stashbusting milestone and my heartfelt thanks for inspiring me to focus on my own stash-down goals. When you said you could knit from stash for five years I looked at my yarn and realized I could knit for ten. I now have enough yarn to last me probably eight years and I've also finally been able to let go of some yarn that I'm definitely not excited to ever work with. Progress! Looking forward to cheering you on as you continue on this journey to a smaller yarn stash! (Also I suddenly have an urge to knit stockings, what have you done to me???)
As someone who is on a very fixed income and has to scour the charity shops for my yarn as I can't afford to buy it new......I thank you.
I did something similar a few months ago, I went through my stash and took out all the things I wouldn't be using, and asked my sister-in-law (who knits a lot) if she wanted any of it, and she took a bunch of it. I'm probably going to go through again and see if there's anything I won't need because that was almost a year ago, and she's willing to take more. It's nice figuring out what you won't use, and instead of staring at it going "ugh" whenever you see it, you get it out where someone else can.
also, don't apologize! I know I'd LOVE to get a tea cozy from a friend, it's a lovely thing, and as long as someone has a teapot for it, I think it's a great gift. (I may be biased lol)
It’s great to see how far you’ve come with the stashbusting having followed it from the start! A random thought, but the crocheted star that you really like the yarn, could you use it to make a little scarf for Douglas to help with his neck? Then you get to keep it too and it has a purpose! Win win!
Your outfit is lovely and that green cardigan really suits you
So excited to watch this video when I get home from work! This is my favorite series!
i have been sooo looking forward to this video!!! cant wait to see where you stand with everything!
Reducing stash or finally using the yarns you bought/spun is so rewarding. It's a relief to get the "I really should" yarn out of the house, and to enjoy the ones left. Though I would never store yarn wound up in balls or cakes, I'm far too scared of finding generations of moths in there at some point.
I made my Grandma a knitted cottage tea cozy when I was about 12, or 13. I think it was a reprint of an earlier pattern, I can't remember which magazine it was in perhaps Woman, or Woman's Realm as those were the ones Mum and Grandma had. She used to bring it out whenever we went over, it was a bit wonky, but very cute and fun to make.❤
I'm honestly so interested in the Victorian knitted corset just from a history perspective, so if you were to make that (or finish making it, whichever it is) and make a video on your knowledge of the pattern and history, I'd definitely watch it. I think I remember you mentioning knitted corsets or similar in your Enola Holmes rational dress video, which was likewise very interesting history-wise, so even though you're not really doing that kind of constume making any more and wouldn't be wearing it, focusing on the history, research, and your expertise on the subject could still make it a viable video idea.
I find it amusing that I watch these, even though I don't knit or crochet (perhaps it's your accent. My husband's late grandparents were Yorkshire folk). PS I love knitted tea cosies! My son accidentally burned ours 😢 Time to drop hints to my kind knitting neighbour.
A fun project! I'm sure they wouldn't mind 😉
Just remember to very unsuspiciously ask what favour they need to be done, I'm sure they would appreciate it in exchange! 😊
@@Noel.Chmielowiec we have a good reciprocal arrangement of favours 😊
Hooray! Congrats on your new stash count! And I agree, if it’s not “fun” or “comfortable” to use, send it out! Part of knitting is the process, and if there’s no reason to work with unpleasant yarns or fabric! Would totally love to see dyeing the yarn, and I think that Mohn cardigan looks great!
This video has been out for 2 weeks and I think I've watched it about 10 times! I love this series so much!
Absolutely spot on episode…know when to hold, when to fold and when to walk away from stash yarn. So glad to hear your decision to separate your yarn; some to charity, some to use as vintage examples, some to save as a mending ‘thread’. You look like a weight has come off your shoulders. Happy knitting!
Your original stash busting video was a huge inspiration for me! I've been knitting from stash for almost 1.5 years now (also these videos are my absolute favourite on youtube)
I've been going through my stash as well. I'm on a hunt for certain things but can't quite unpack everything just now. We have the attic to finish before I can do it. But I'm convinced I won't purchase yarn for at least 10 years. I've also been frogging certain things from when I taught at a big box craft store and thinking of ways to repurpose other things from the same time period. Luckily my knitting guild and my crochet guild have charities where a load of things can be donated with little or no modifications.
For the stuff you don't want to use or can't use, sell it
Not even waiting to get a minute in to say HOW HYPED I AM for this video
I always set aside at least 25g of yarn for future mending of sweaters. I store them in nice jars. I label my oddments with the pattern name, needle, gauge, yarn brand and name, and FO date. It might be an overkill, but I will know exactly which sweater it belongs to (I hope).
I love your approach to donations. You’re being realistic about what to expect from yourself, which is a very good place to be.
Did you wind all that yarn in one sitting? WHEW! Winding yarn wears me out so quickly. Go you!
So excited for this video! And on a morning I'm stuck in bed trying to work up the energy to go to my kniiting guild meeting today is perfect!
I'm glad you decided to donate some of your yarn. It's such a weight off, and so quickly. I started stashbusting about 20 months ago, I counted up that I had at least 755 50g balls! My stash was built around a charity I make for, and between the changes they have made to what they will accept, and what I can manage to make now (fibro with really bad hand pain) Most of my stash was no longer bringing me joy.
I've been trying to work my way through it, but decided to just sell a whole lot of it off as it wasn't bringing me joy any more, and I figured that I could use the money to buy yarn I can use that will make me happy. I'm down to 287.5 balls. I still need to go through again, I've designated one drawer to be my ideal stash size, but I'm slowly getting there.
And I did just use some of the money I've made selling my old stash to buy a sweaters quantity of gorgeous yarn to make myself something special.
If that star in pretty yarn sings to you, what about using it as a coaster/mug rug for tea? Then it has a purpose, doesn't need to be reworked, and lets you enjoy that beautiful yarn in an everyday setting!
I second this idea! I have a crocheted hexagon I made in the most gorgeous yarn. I was making a bag but my hands dont really let me crochet anymore so I was never going to be able to make all the other hexagons in time. (it was for a fibre festival we have in Australia, everyone is given a pattern to make something to wear so we can look at all the beautiful variations everyone makes while shopping for yarn and watching demos etc)
So now it is my coaster next to my bed, and I bought the most gorgeous tea mug in matching colours and it makes me smile every time I look at it!
You can use some of the hexy puff yarns for hats the colors would look pretty for a fall and winter hat
Yeaaaaaaahhhh!!!! Im so excited!!
I agree that your Mending Yarn and your Archive Yarn are not part of your stash. They have a different purpose, you know what that purpose is --> No Guilt. :-) I LOVE your stash-busting videos! I am not a knitter (though you have inspired me to start trying it), but I think your stash-busting thoughts apply to anything one has in their posession that is overwhelming them in any way.
Also, I would ADORE owning a tea cozy knit by you!! ❤
I enjoy watching your stash busting videos while working on my latest crochet project.
This was such a quality video! I really enjoyed the historical interlude, you presented it in such an engaging way! Would be fun if there are accounts of wool pilfering hahaha.
I’m never set up for anything in my life and I really struggle to initiate projects for that reason too. Loved seeing you work on prep stuff. When the energy and the initiative are available it’s so nice to be able to do something helpful for your future self like that. I hope having skeins ready to go makes you feel joy and motivation.
Also would definitely be excited to see the dyeing, cozy, or stockings! Or whatever else inspires you, but I hope you’re not putting too much pressure on yourself and are at least having more fun than you are losing energy.
You might already know this but Ravelry will update the amount of yarn you have left if you create a project page for your project then select the yarn used from your stash. When done the project, update the project with the exact amount of yarn you used. Your stash of the yarn will then show what’s left to use.
I definitely relate to the skein winding thing! I have to take advantage of a good day and wind several skeins in one go. Then I overdo it and don't want to wind yarn again for ages
I love watching you do this. It makes me feel so inspired to own what I have and figure out how to creatively use it.
I use things like the stars as coasters :)
Love hearing your logic about donating your yarns. Very thoughtful and helpful as I look at my own stash. 🥰
Hi. Today, I also spent quite a bit of time winding skeins into cakes. Beautiful hand dyed merino sock yarn, which I am turning into a crochet summer top. X
Oh yes, I have wound up all my stash... it was so fun!
I finally have the energy to do so after getting rid of most of my ME. I have 20 or 30 year old yarns too. And a lot more yarn than you have. But I have started to tackle it in 2021. Sadly... buying more yarn... I need to get on top of my yarn stash!
Yay! The reset we’ve been waiting for ❤
Thanks for this lovely chatty video. It was good to hear your thoughts as you processed your stash. Seeing all those fresh cakes was delicious.
With your thoughts about dyeing yarn, I've been watching a lot of Chemknits lately. She's such good value; inspiring and informative.
Seeing the stash total come all the way down to 100 made me breathe a sympathetic sigh of relief! I have a craft supply swap coming up next month at my local library so it's a good time for me to take a long look at my stash and decide what I'm for sure not going to use and exchange it for something else
Loved this episode. Been following since you started this journey and am in awe with your achievements, your process, the way you pace yourself. It seems like you made some very sensible decisions about your stash, well done! And, I watched it while knitting on my own 2 year long saga (cotton yarn, tiny needles....but really want the end product).
Loved the dress cardi combo at the start of the video. I to have Engineering knits cardigan on my to knit list especially as she has made bigger sizes, i need 42" to fit my bust.
OMG have I BEEN waiting for this update!!!
I'm looking forward to seeing you try on the deasy blouse and the blue dress once you're finished with them ❤❤
I'm amazed already for the will to reduce your stash. Keep going girl 💪🏼💪🏼
So nice to see you upbeat again! I think taking the archival yarn out of stash is an excellent idea. The yellow yarn is so pretty, you could make a marvellous short-sleeved top or accessory with it. I understand what you mean about not having enough money to give away sub-par yarn, but would you give someone advice to stick with a spouse they don't like anymore just because they're not sure if they can get another one? Having it hanging around is a burden. There are always new deals on yarn, and even though yarn might be expensive, using fine yarn lasts a long time.
Thank you for the lovely video! I know you're not a makeup channel but I loved the coordinated lipstick with the dress in the beginning of the video. Also, I'm excited about new stocking project in the future, as I want to try knitting ones at some point for myself. I loved the candy colors of the yarns that go to the blanket, I'm sure it'll look lovely in the end! I also keep yarn for mending and I think it's very practical practise. Once again, thank you for the lovely video, I've also kept up with the shorts but I'll admit that I missed a long form video on knitting from you. :)
I like your thoughts on stash purpose. I don't think I would count anything in my actual 'Stash' except for yarns to be used in knitting projects. Then have a separate bag/box, etc for educational &/or mending yarn.
I love Studio Donegal. My husband brought back such beautiful yarn after a business trip.
Thank you for the history yarn lesson about the war and post war 😮😮 I never thought about that!
Have I missed the completed daisy blouse? I love the attention to detail to put into your work including the yarn sorting, counting and weighing.
I asked my question too soon before the end of the video. Keep on keeping on.
I would watch you winding yarn for hours! It was very relaxing! Compilation idea, maybe?
Love the video. Maybe make a vintage mending kit? I'd watch that video too. I think it's exciting to see everyone stash down. We all got a lot of yarn, and it's really fun to see it used up. All the best! - Kimberly
Your outfit is absolutely amazing!
That yellow yarn would look fantastic as a scarf!