Do you have a pile of leftover yarn scraps or oddments staring out of a cupboard or basket? If you love knitting, you probably do. But don’t worry.

This blog post is all about turning those bits and pieces into fun and useful projects. And I’m not just talking about striped scarves – lovely though those are, particularly when they’re the skinny variety. Almost no amount of yarn is too small to put to good use. As long as you’ve got enough to make a small pompom, you’re in business!

We call small things made from leftover yarn ‘stashbusters’. That’s because they help clear out your stash of yarn scraps. So grab your needles, sort out some yarn and let’s get those needles transforming your stash into a host of gorgeous stuff.

Fingerless mitts

Fingerless mitts are another excellent project for beginners. This project not only lets you practice knitting basics but also results in a stylish and functional accessory. Perfect for keeping your hands warm while your fingers remain free for tasks like typing or texting.

If you want to try your hand at making these, I’m writing a pattern (that’ll be available to my blog readers for free) that guides you through the process step-by-step. The pattern is straightforward and worked in worsted/Aran yarn. It consists mostly of working a rectangle that is then sewn into a tube, with a space for your thumb. But my pattern is a nice one because the hole for the thumb is not just a gap in the seam. It’s hard to explain in words, so please look back in a week or so to have a look and grab your copy. There’s no shaping involved at all – it’s all about just casting off a few stitches in the middle of the project.

And remember, while my pattern is knitted in stripes of two colours, you could easily knit these in a random selection of worsted/Aran yarns.

Knitted hearts

I knit these in light worsted/DK weight yarn. But they’d also be fine in worsted/Aran yarn. You’ll just need to use slightly bigger needles (you’ll need size US 7-8/4.5-5mm rather than US 5-6/3.75-4mm). I wouldn’t recommend any yarn thicker than this, though – or your beautiful hearts might start looking a bit odd.

You can use a single heart on a key ring or as a door-key fob. Or you can string a load of them together to make a garland or bunting. Please give them a go – they really do look nice. And once you’ve tried them, I think you’ll be a little bit addicted.

There’s a link to the pattern here.

Scrappy scarf

The lovely thing about this project is you can use all sorts of different yarns. Combining different weights and types of yarn will result in a unique texture, full of personality and charm. Switch between thin, delicate yarns and chunkier ones. But don’t go too mad – it’s the texture change that really gives these their unique look, not so much the weight. It’s fine using anything from light worsted/DK right through to a fairly lightweight bulky/chunky. But stop there – don’t use super bulky/chunky yarns!

I recommend that you knit using a basic garter stitch to help keep the fabric relatively even despite the varying thicknesses. And in my opinion, thin scrappy scarves work better than thick ones – which can be a bit unwieldy. Cast on anything between 20-25 stitches. And choose medium-sized needles. It depends a little on your yarn collection, but I normally knit these scarves on US8/5mm needles. This way, the light worsted/DK will have a slightly loose look on these, the worsted yarns will have a standard look, and the bulky/chunky yarns will have a slightly dense feel.

Miniature toys and Christmas decorations

Knitting small toys and Christmas tree decorations is a really fun way to use up leftover yarn. These projects are quick and easy, making them perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a fast result. You can make little animals, trees, acorns, and much more. They’ll add a personal touch to your home or make thoughtful gifts, too. What’s more, each piece is unique, adding charm and warmth to your holiday decor.

For readers of my blog, I’ve got a free e-book on these which you can download here. I’ve sold quite a lot of these books, so I thought it was time to make it free – for my blog readers only!

There are 21 ideas in total – so it should keep you busy for a while. And don’t forget to send me photos of your creations – I love looking at what you make.

Pom pom creations

I’m an absolute sucker for pom poms and quite a recent convert to those plastic pom pom makers you can buy. Yes, for ages, I really did use two circles of cardboard with a hole cut in the middle! And though they’re almost certainly more eco-friendly, the plastic pom pom makers really are a brilliant tool. The ones I use are these ones.

And you can find some great ideas on the internet about how to use them.  This is just one – take a look at her pom pom tassels – I think they’re gorgeous.

It really is super simple to make pom poms and a great idea if you’ve got children or grandchildren. You don’t even need to be especially crafty to get great results.

There is so many things you can do with pom poms that I’ve got it listed for a whole blog post of its own. But for now, let me share just a few. You can make gorgeous earrings, cute paper clip embellishments, and they give a great extra lift to an otherwise plain cushion.

Wrist and ankle warmers

Knitting wrist or ankle warmers is a great idea for beginners because they don’t require any shaping. They’ll work best in light worsted/DK or worsted/Aran yarn. All you need to do is knit a simple rectangle and then sew it into a tube. It’s an easy project that helps you practice basic stitches. Wrist warmers are not only quick to make but also practical, keeping your hands warm while letting your fingers move freely. But you could always challenge your inner ballerina with ankle warmers, if you prefer.

You don’t really need a pattern for wrist warmers. And you can knit them in pretty much any stitch. But I think they work best in a knit 2, purl 2 rib. This is because rib stitch is nice and stretchy – so they’ll fit quite snuggly but you’ll also be able to move your hands easily.

Watch out for my simple free pattern that will be coming soon. To make sure you get it, don’t forget to sign up to follow my blog.

Tassels galore

Tassels are a bit like pom poms. You can use them for earrings, key fobs, and decorating textile items like cushions. What’s more, they’re even easier to make and a great way of using up specialist yarns, especially silky or metallic ones.

There’s a good YouTube video here.

Hairband

Hairbands are a brilliant way to use up your oddments of yarn – and they’re great for keeping your ears warm when the weather is still chilly – but not quite so cold you need a hat. They also make a lovely Christmas or winter birthday gift.

I’m going to put the pattern in my Love Knitting store for knitting one in bulky/chunky yarn. It’ll be there shortly – so please look back soon. They don’t use much yarn and you’ll knit them up in no time!

Stashbusting is not just about clearing up your baskets and cupboards. It’s about creativity and making the most of what you have. Each project turns leftover strands into something new and exciting.

Whether it’s a gift, something for your home, or a treat for yourself, it’s all valuable. So, look at that yarn stash, pick up your needles, and start your next project today. With every stitch, your pile of leftovers will shrink, and your collection of handmade treasures will grow. Happy knitting!