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Recycled Yarn: Find it, save it, store it

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Reclaim used and useless yarn

Crafters know that sometimes you just can't throw stuff away.  Take yarn for example...many people have tons of the stuff laying around in skeins, balls, Ziploc bags, and baskets, just waiting to be turned into something gorgeous.  Or maybe you have your eye on an old sweater or botched scarf.  Whatever it is, there are plenty of things you can do with those yarn scraps.  Don't let it go to waste!  Learn how to save it, dye it, skein it, and store it.

Interesting places to find yarn

If you don't have yarn laying around, or can't find the color you want at the store, the webmasters of the following links have some interesting ideas for finding and hording yarn.
The Recycled Yarn Tutorial
This great web page shows you step-by-step photos on how to turn a sweater back into yarn.
Unraveling Thrift Store Sweaters
This is another great page with photos that also includes tips on dying, skeining, and washing yarn.
Keep a Cheap Yarn Stash
If you're trying to get yarn instead of get rid of it, try garage sales and thrift stores.

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Be responsible with your yarn

This video shows what can happen when people aren't responsible with their yarn...or their enthusiasm over yarn. (Who makes time to film stuff like this, anyway?)
yarn ball
by chelleigh | video info

3 ratings | 1,159 views
curated content from YouTube

Purchase yarn on eBay for a fraction of the original cost

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Organize and Store your Yarn

Keep small skeins and balls neatly organized, dust and pet-hair free, in plastic bags or boxes. Don't forget to label them clearly!
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Where else can you find recycled yarn?

Once you know what to look for, you'll see yarn everywhere!
  • Garage sales - you can get basic colors dirt cheap here. Be prepared for small balls and maybe even some skeins in need of a washing.
  • Thrift stores - sometimes you can find left over yarn from skeins or projects at thrift stores. Check for short pieces from plastic canvas or latch-hook rug making kits.
  • Sweaters and afghans - if you see a sweater or afghan you really like, or at least the yarn part of it, you can pull it apart and make your own creation.
  • eBay and other online auctions - yarn is a big seller on eBay. Find it in pieces, half-finished projects, or recycled balls.
  • Crafter's clubs - swap materials with local crafters. You might have just what they want, and they might have something cool for you.

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