Step-by-Step Guide: How to Start a New Ball of Yarn in Knitting

Starting a new ball of yarn may seem like a daunting task for beginner knitters, but with a few simple steps, it can be easily mastered. Whether you’ve run out of yarn or want to change colors for a new project, knowing how to start a new ball of yarn is an essential skill for any knitter.

Step 1: Prepare the New Yarn

Before starting a new ball of yarn, it’s important to prepare the yarn to make it easier to work with. Begin by unraveling a length of yarn from the new ball, typically a few arm lengths, and wind it into a loose ball or create a center pull ball if desired. This will prevent the yarn from becoming tangled and make it more manageable as you knit.

Step 2: Secure the Old and New Yarns

To seamlessly transition from the old ball of yarn to the new one, you’ll need to secure the two together. Start by knitting or purling to the end of the row with the old yarn. Take the new yarn and tie a secure knot around the old yarn, leaving a tail of a few inches. This will prevent the stitches from unraveling and secure the new yarn in place.

Step 3: Weave in the Tails

Now that the new yarn is securely attached, it’s time to weave in the loose ends to ensure they don’t unravel as you continue knitting. Using a yarn needle or your knitting needle, slowly and carefully weave the tails into the stitches of your knitting for a few inches. This will create a neat and secure finish that won’t come undone with wear or washing. It’s important to weave in the tails as you go to avoid having to do it all at the end.

Step 4: Continue Knitting

With the new ball of yarn securely attached and the ends woven in, you’re ready to continue knitting with your new yarn. Simply pick up where you left off with the old yarn and continue your pattern or project as usual. Remember to keep an eye on your gauge to ensure consistency between the old and new yarns, and enjoy the process of working with your fresh ball of yarn.

Starting a new ball of yarn doesn’t have to be intimidating. By following these simple steps, you can smoothly transition from one ball to the next and keep your knitting project on track. With a little practice, starting a new ball of yarn will become second nature, allowing you to explore new colors and textures in your knitting projects with confidence.

Why Start a New Ball?

Starting a new ball of yarn is a common practice in knitting for several reasons:

Running out of Yarn: If you are working on a larger project, such as a sweater or blanket, you may run out of yarn from your initial ball. Starting a new ball allows you to continue knitting without interruption.
Matching Dye Lots: Yarn is often dyed in batches known as dye lots. Each dye lot may have slight variations in color, so if you are working on a larger project, it is important to ensure that your yarn comes from the same dye lot to maintain color consistency. Starting a new ball allows you to switch to a new dye lot if necessary.
Adding a New Color: Sometimes you may want to add a different colored yarn to your project for design purposes. Starting a new ball allows you to seamlessly incorporate the new color into your knitting.

By starting a new ball of yarn, you can ensure that your knitting project stays on track and meets your desired outcome.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start a new ball of yarn in knitting, make sure you have the following supplies:

Knitting Needles: Choose a pair of knitting needles that are suitable for your project. The size of the needles will depend on the weight and thickness of your yarn.
Yarn: Select a new ball of yarn that matches the color and weight of your existing yarn. Make sure the yarn is wound into a neat ball or skein.
Scissors: Keep a pair of sharp scissors handy for cutting the yarn.
Tapestry Needle: You will need a tapestry needle with a large eye to weave in the loose ends of your yarn.
Stitch Marker (optional): If you are working on a project that requires stitch markers, gather them as well.

It’s important to have all these supplies within reach before starting the process of joining a new ball of yarn. This will ensure a smooth and uninterrupted knitting experience.

Find the End of the Yarn

Before you can start a new ball of yarn in your knitting project, you’ll need to find the end of the yarn that is attached to the existing ball. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to locate the end of the yarn:

Inspect the ball of yarn: Begin by examining the ball of yarn to locate the loose end. Look for a small tail sticking out of the yarn or a piece of yarn that seems to be unraveling.
Feel for the end: If you can’t visually locate the loose end, gently run your fingers over the surface of the yarn ball. Look for any breaks or separations in the yarn that could indicate the end of the yarn.
Unravel the yarn: If you still haven’t found the loose end, you may need to unravel a small portion of the yarn. Choose a visible spot on the outer edge of the ball and gently pull on the yarn to unravel a few inches. This will expose the end of the yarn.
Secure the loose end: Once you have located the end of the yarn, use your fingers to twist it into a small loop or tie a loose knot to prevent it from unraveling further.

Once you have found and secured the loose end of the yarn, you are ready to start knitting with your new ball of yarn. Make sure to leave a tail of at least a few inches when you begin knitting to ensure that the yarn doesn’t come undone.

Secure the Yarn

Once you have started a new ball of yarn, you need to secure it to ensure it doesn’t come undone while you are knitting. There are a few different methods you can use to secure the yarn, choose the one that works best for you:

Knot Method: Make a simple knot by tying the old and new yarn ends together. This method is quick and easy, but keep in mind that knots can create bulk in your finished project.
Weaving Method: Thread the yarn end from the new ball through a tapestry needle. Insert the needle through the stitches on the backside of your work, weaving the end in and out of the stitches for about an inch. This method is more secure and creates less bulk than the knot method.
Split Method: Split the yarn from the new ball into two strands. Knit a few stitches with both the old and new yarn held together. Then, drop the old yarn and continue knitting with the new yarn only. This method doesn’t require any knots or weaving, but it may leave a small gap in your work.

Whichever method you choose, make sure to leave a tail of at least 6 inches long. This tail will be woven in later to secure the yarn even further and prevent unraveling.

Join the New Yarn

Once you have finished knitting with the old ball of yarn, it’s time to join the new yarn. Follow these steps to seamlessly incorporate the new yarn into your project:

Locate the end of the new yarn ball and hold it parallel to the knitting needle.
Insert the right needle into the next stitch on the left needle as if you were going to knit.
Place the end of the new yarn over the right needle, crossing it over the old yarn.
Using the right needle, knit the next stitch by inserting it into the stitch and pulling the new yarn through.
Drop the old yarn, leaving a few inches trailing behind.

At this point, you have successfully joined the new yarn and can continue knitting with it. It’s important to ensure that the tension of the new yarn matches the tension of the old yarn to maintain a consistent appearance in your knitting.

If you prefer a more secure join, you can also use the Russian join or the spit splice method. These methods involve weaving the ends of the old and new yarn together to create a strong bond. However, be aware that these techniques may not be suitable for all types of yarn.

Remember to weave in the ends of the old and new yarns once you have completed your knitting project. This will help prevent any unraveling and give your finished piece a clean and professional look.

Weave in the Ends

After you have finished knitting with a particular ball of yarn, you will need to secure the loose ends to prevent your work from unraveling. This process is known as weaving in the ends.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to weave in the ends:

Thread the loose end of your yarn onto a yarn needle. Make sure to leave a tail of at least 6 inches to work with.
Identify the stitches or rows where the loose end needs to be woven in. This is usually in the same color as the yarn you are using.
Insert the yarn needle under the stitches or rows, using the needle to follow the path of the yarn.
Pull the yarn needle through, leaving a loop of yarn on the backside of your knitting.
Repeat steps 3-4 several times to secure the loose end and prevent it from unraveling. Aim to weave in the end for at least 1-2 inches.
Trim the excess yarn, leaving a small tail. Be careful not to cut too close to the fabric, as this may cause it to unravel.

By weaving in the ends, you ensure that your finished knitting project looks neat and professional. It also prevents any loose ends from snagging or unraveling over time.

Tips for Weaving in Ends:
1. Use a Yarn Needle:	Invest in a yarn needle with a large eye to make it easier to thread the loose end through.
2. Match Yarn Colors:	Choose a yarn needle that matches the color of your yarn to make the woven-in ends less noticeable.
3. Weave in Different Directions:	When weaving in ends at color changes, weave them in different directions to help secure the stitches.
4. Use a Tapestry Needle for Bulkier Yarns:	If you are working with a bulkier yarn, consider using a tapestry needle with a larger eye to accommodate the thicker yarn.

Remember to weave in your ends as you go, rather than waiting until the end. This will save you time and make the finishing process much easier.

Continue Knitting

Once you have attached the new ball of yarn, you can continue knitting as usual. Here are some steps to follow:

Hold the working yarn in your right hand and the knitting needle with the stitches in your left hand.
Insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle, from left to right.
Wrap the working yarn around the right needle counterclockwise.
Use the right needle to pull the wrapped yarn through the first stitch, creating a new stitch on the right needle.
Slide the old stitch off the left needle, leaving the new stitch on the right needle.
Repeat steps 2-5 for each stitch until you have finished the row.
Turn your work and start the next row, following the same steps.

Continue knitting in this manner until you have reached the desired length or completed the pattern. Take care to maintain an even tension and consistency throughout your knitting. Remember to periodically check your gauge to ensure your knitting matches the required measurements.

If you encounter any issues or need further guidance, consult knitting resources such as books, online tutorials, or join a knitting group for support. Happy knitting!

Store Leftover Yarn

When you finish a knitting project, it’s common to have leftover yarn. It’s important to store this yarn properly so that it doesn’t become tangled or damaged. Here are some tips for storing your leftover yarn:

Wind the yarn into a ball: If the leftover yarn is in a skein or hank, it’s a good idea to wind it into a ball before storing it. This will prevent it from getting tangled and make it easier to use in future projects. You can use a yarn winder or simply wind it by hand.
Label the yarn: It’s helpful to label the yarn with the color, brand, and weight to easily identify it later. You can use a small tag or sticker to attach this information to the yarn.
Keep it in airtight containers: Moisture can damage yarn, so it’s important to keep it in airtight containers to protect it from humidity. Plastic bags, plastic containers, or vacuum-sealed bags are all good options for storing yarn.
Store in a cool, dry place: Yarn should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or mildew. Avoid storing it in areas with high heat, such as attics or garages.
Organize by color or weight: If you have a large collection of leftover yarn, consider organizing it by color or weight. This will make it easier to find the perfect yarn for future projects.
Use moth repellents: Moths are attracted to yarn and can cause damage by eating through it. To prevent this, you can use moth repellents such as cedar balls or lavender sachets in your yarn storage area.

By following these tips, you can store your leftover yarn in a way that keeps it in good condition and ready for your next knitting project.

Enjoy Your Project

Now that you have successfully joined a new ball of yarn to your knitting, it’s time to enjoy your project and continue knitting. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your knitting experience:

Take breaks: Knitting can be a relaxing activity, but it’s important to take breaks to rest your hands and prevent strain.
Experiment with different stitches: Once you feel comfortable with the basic stitches, try experimenting with different stitch patterns to add variety and interest to your project.
Keep track of your progress: Use stitch markers or a row counter to keep track of your rows and stitches, especially if you’re working on a complex pattern.
Stay organized: Use a project bag or container to keep your yarn, needles, and other knitting supplies organized and easily accessible.
Join a knitting group or community: Knitting can be a social activity. Consider joining a local knitting group or an online knitting community to share your progress, get advice, and connect with fellow knitters.
Take photos and share your work: Document your knitting journey by taking photos of your projects. You can share them on social media or with friends and family to showcase your hard work.

Remember, knitting is a creative and enjoyable hobby. Take your time, enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. With practice, you’ll become more confident and skilled in your knitting abilities. Happy knitting!

FAQ:

What is the best way to start a new ball of yarn in knitting?

The best way to start a new ball of yarn in knitting is to make a slip knot, insert your needle into the loop, and tighten the knot around the needle. Then, you can continue knitting with the new ball of yarn.

Can I just tie the new yarn to the old yarn and continue knitting?

No, it is not recommended to simply tie the new yarn to the old yarn and continue knitting. This can create knots and uneven tension in your knitting. It’s best to start a new ball of yarn using a slip knot and then weave in the ends later.

How do I transfer the yarn from one ball to another?

To transfer the yarn from one ball to another, you can start by making a slip knot with the new ball of yarn. Then, insert your needle into the slip knot and tighten it around the needle. Make sure to leave a long enough tail so that you can weave in the ends later.

What should I do with the loose ends of yarn once I start a new ball?

Once you start a new ball of yarn, you can leave the loose ends hanging for now. After you finish your project, you can weave in the ends using a yarn needle to secure them and make sure they don’t unravel.

Is it okay to join a new ball of yarn in the middle of a row?

Yes, it is okay to join a new ball of yarn in the middle of a row. You can simply start knitting with the new ball of yarn, leaving a long enough tail to weave in later. Just make sure to secure the loose ends of both the old and new yarns to prevent them from unraveling.

What if I run out of yarn in the middle of my knitting project?

If you run out of yarn in the middle of your knitting project, you can start a new ball of yarn following the steps mentioned earlier. Make sure to join the new ball in a place that won’t be noticeable, such as at the edge of your project or in a seam.

Can I use a different color yarn when starting a new ball?

Yes, you can use a different color yarn when starting a new ball. This can create interesting color patterns or add design elements to your knitting project. Just make sure to secure the loose ends of both the old and new yarns so that they don’t unravel.

Starting a New Ball of Yarn in Knitting