Working on a crochet project can be enjoyable and rewarding, but running out of yarn in the middle of your work can be frustrating. Luckily, joining new yarn in crochet is a simple process that only takes a few minutes, and there are several different methods you can use.
Before you begin, you will need to choose the method you want to use to join your new yarn. There are three main methods: the invisible join, the yarn-over join, and the spit splice join.
Once you have chosen your method, follow the instructions below to join your new yarn:
1. Invisible Join: This method is the most invisible of the three, and it is perfect for joining yarn in the middle of a row or round. To do an invisible join, simply insert the hook into the last loop of the old yarn and pull up a loop of the new yarn. Then, insert the hook into the next loop of the old yarn and pull through both loops of the new yarn. Repeat this process until you have joined the two pieces of yarn.
2. Yarn-Over Join: This method is also invisible, but it is a little easier to do than the invisible join. To do a yarn-over join, simply yarn over the hook with the new yarn. Then, insert the hook into the next loop of the old yarn and pull through both loops of the yarn on the hook.
3. Spit Splice Join: This method is the most visible of the three, but it is also the strongest. To do a spit splice join, cut the old yarn, leaving a tail about 6 inches long. Cut the new yarn, leaving a tail about 6 inches long. Spit on the tail of the old yarn and rub it between your fingers to make it pliable. Insert the tail of the new yarn into the tail of the old yarn and pull it through until the two ends are even.
Identifying When to Join New Yarn
Crocheting seamlessly requires the ability to discern when it’s necessary to add a new skein of yarn. Here are some key indicators to watch out for:
Yarn Length
As you crochet, pay attention to the length of the yarn remaining in the skein. When the yarn tail becomes too short to continue working comfortably (typically around 6-8 inches), it’s time to join a new skein.
Yarn Texture
Examine the texture of the yarn. If the yarn becomes noticeably thin, frayed, or split, it’s a sign that it’s reaching its end and needs to be replaced.
Yarn Appearance
The appearance of the yarn can also provide clues. If you notice any knots, tangles, or discoloration in the yarn, it’s advisable to switch to a new skein to ensure the integrity of your crocheting.
Yarn Label
Some yarn labels may provide recommendations on when to join a new skein. For example, some labels suggest joining a new skein when there are approximately 25% of the yardage remaining.
| Signs | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Yarn tail less than 6-8 inches | Need to join new yarn |
| Yarn becoming thin, frayed, or split | Yarn nearing its end |
| Yarn containing knots, tangles, or discoloration | Time to switch to new skein |
| Label recommendation | Join new yarn based on yardage remaining |
Choosing the Appropriate Joining Method
When joining new yarn in crochet, selecting the most suitable method is crucial to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. Consider the following factors:
Yarn Type
Different yarn types may require specific joining methods. Bulky yarns or those with a tendency to split may necessitate a more secure join, while finer yarns may benefit from a less noticeable method.
Project Requirements
The intended use of the crochet item can influence the choice of joining method. If the item will be subjected to heavy wear or washing, a more durable join may be preferred. For decorative pieces, a less conspicuous join may be more appropriate.
Joining Methods Summary
| Method | Suitability | Inconspicuousness |
|---|---|---|
| Magic Circle | Beginning rounds | Very inconspicuous |
| Slip Knot | For thicker yarns | Moderately conspicuous |
| Invisible Join | Fine yarns, visible joins | Very inconspicuous |
| Weaving In Ends | Versatile, post-completion method | Moderately conspicuous |
Joining with a Slip Knot
The slip knot is a simple and secure method for joining new yarn in crochet. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Make a Slip Knot
Hold the new yarn next to the old yarn, with the ends overlapping slightly. Make a small loop with the new yarn and slip it onto the hook.
Step 2: Pull the Yarn Through the Loop
Use the hook to pull the active yarn (the new yarn) through the loop you just created. This will form a new loop on the hook.
Step 3: Insert the Hook into the Next Stitch
Insert the hook into the next stitch of the row you’re working on. The hook should now have two loops on it.
Step 4: Pull the New Yarn Through the Stitch
Use the hook to pull the new yarn through the stitch you just inserted it into. This will create a new stitch with the new yarn.
Step 5: Slip the Old Yarn Off the Hook
Slip the old yarn off the hook completely. You can now continue crocheting with the new yarn.
Tips:
- Make sure the overlapping ends of the yarn are secure, as this will prevent them from unraveling.
- If you’re joining two different colors of yarn, make sure to weave in the old yarn securely before starting with the new yarn.
- The slip knot method can also be used to join yarn in the middle of a row, although this may require some additional steps.
| Yarn Joining Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Slip Knot | – Secure – Easy to do – Can be used to join different colors or types of yarn |
– May not be as invisible as other methods – Can loosen over time if not done correctly |
Joining with a Standing Join
A standing join is a method of joining new yarn to your work without creating a visible seam. It’s a quick and easy way to connect two strands of yarn, and it’s perfect for when you’re working on a large project and need to add more yarn. To do a standing join, follow these steps:
- Cut the old yarn, leaving a tail of about 6 inches.
- Insert the new yarn into the hook.
- Pull the new yarn through the back loop of the last stitch on the hook.
- Yarn over and pull the yarn through both loops on the hook.
- Insert the hook back into the next stitch on the work.
- Yarn over and pull the yarn through both loops on the hook. You’ve now joined the new yarn to the old yarn, and you’re ready to continue crocheting.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps for doing a standing join:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Cut the old yarn, leaving a tail of about 6 inches. |
| 2 | Insert the new yarn into the hook. |
| 3 | Pull the new yarn through the back loop of the last stitch on the hook. |
| 4 | Yarn over and pull the yarn through both loops on the hook. |
| 5 | Insert the hook back into the next stitch on the work. |
| 6 | Yarn over and pull the yarn through both loops on the hook. You’ve now joined the new yarn to the old yarn, and you’re ready to continue crocheting. |
Joining with a Crocodile Stitch
The crocodile stitch is a unique and decorative stitch that can also be used to join new yarn. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Create a slip knot: With the old yarn, make a slip knot and place it on your hook.
- Insert hook into top loop: Insert your hook into the top loop of the last stitch worked with the old yarn.
- Yarn over (YO): Pull the old yarn through to create a loop on your hook.
- Insert hook into next stitch: Insert your hook into the top loop of the next stitch worked with the old yarn.
- YO: Pull the new yarn through to create a loop on your hook.
- YO: Pull the old yarn through both loops on your hook.
- YO: Pull the new yarn through both loops on your hook.
- YO: Pull the old yarn through both loops on your hook.
- Insert hook into next stitch: Insert your hook into the top loop of the next stitch worked with the old yarn.
- YO: Pull the new yarn through to create a loop on your hook.
- Pull through: Pull the new yarn through the two loops on your hook.
- Continue: Repeat steps 9-10 to complete the crocodile stitch.
| Stitch | Function |
|---|---|
| Slip knot | Creates a loop on the hook |
| Yarn over (YO) | Pulls yarn through to create a loop on the hook |
| Pull through | Pulls loops through from the hook |
How To Join New Yarn In Crochet
When you’re crocheting a large project, you’ll eventually need to join new yarn. There are a few different ways to do this, but the most common method is the invisible join using a tapestry needle. This method gives a seamless finish, and it’s easy to do.
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To start, leave a tail of about 6 inches of yarn when you finish the last stitch of the old yarn.
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Thread the new yarn onto a tapestry needle.
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Insert the tapestry needle into the next stitch on the hook, from front to back.
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Pull the new yarn through the stitch, leaving a small loop on the hook.
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Insert the tapestry needle into the next stitch on the hook, from back to front.
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Pull the new yarn through the stitch, and then through the loop on the hook.
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Continue crocheting with the new yarn.
People Also Ask
How do you join yarn in the middle of a row?
To join yarn in the middle of a row, you can use the invisible join method described above. Simply start by inserting the tapestry needle into the stitch on the hook, from front to back. Then, pull the new yarn through the stitch, leaving a small loop on the hook. Next, insert the tapestry needle into the next stitch on the hook, from back to front. Finally, pull the new yarn through the stitch, and then through the loop on the hook. Continue crocheting with the new yarn.
How do you join yarn in amigurumi?
To join yarn in amigurumi, you can use the invisible join method described above. However, you may also want to use a slip stitch to secure the join. To do this, simply insert the tapestry needle into the last stitch of the old yarn, from front to back. Then, pull the new yarn through the stitch, and then through the loop on the hook. Finally, insert the tapestry needle into the first stitch of the new yarn, from back to front. Pull the new yarn through the stitch, and then through the loop on the hook. Continue crocheting with the new yarn.
How do you join yarn without a knot?
To join yarn without a knot, you can use the invisible join method described above. This method gives a seamless finish, and it’s easy to do.
