Quick Stashbusting Knitting Patterns

Shrink your yarn stash with these use-it-all patterns

Whether it’s made up of part-skeins left-over from your latest knitting project or random single balls of yarn that have been donated, impulse-bought or acquired by other means (we don’t want to know!), most knitters have a yarn stash. And in all likelihood, it grows with every project. For those of us with particularly large stashes, it is often quicker and easier to buy new yarn, rather than rummaging through the numerous boxes, drawers and bags trying to find the ideal choice. But that’s a poor excuse and won’t help curate your collection. These 13 patterns are all relatively quick to make and can all be made using yarns from your stash!

Stripy Knitted Toys

Sachiyo Ishii’s adorable animals are quick and easy to knit and we love the simple stripe pattern. This pair also feature a hint of sparkle! Download the knitting pattern today.

Easy Bobble Hats
© Purl Soho You can’t beat a classic and this simple hat knitting pattern from Purl Soho is beginner-friendly and quick to make. It uses just one ball for the hat and another for the pom-pom, so feel free to mix-and-match with colours.
Upcycled Jar Covers

Use your yarn stash to brighten up a simple jam jar. Designed by Helen Ardley for Let’s Knit, these knitted jam jar covers have a pretty stripe pattern which is perfect for using up several shades from your stash.

Stashbuster Cushion

© Suzie Blackman
Slip stitch colourwork is super easy to do and looks so effective, as demonstrated in this free colourful cushion pattern. Each row of colour uses just 5g of aran yarn. Find the pattern on Ravelry

Strawberry Teacosy

Nicola Valiji’s colourful cosy is designed to fit a vintage style enamel teapot and it’s great for camping, glamping or outdoor dining. Download this striped strawberry teacosy knitting pattern today.

Simple Stripe Mittens

© Stephanie Lotven
Choose from fingerless or full mittens with this fun pattern. This version is knitted in 4ply (fingering) weight yarn, but DK and worsted weight versions are available too. Use yarns from your stash to create your own stripe design! Buy the pattern at ravelry.com

Cable Baby Blanket

You only need one 50g ball of each colour to make Helen Ardley’s classic cable baby blanket. The pastel shades look sweet and summery but you could mix it up depending on what is in your yarn stash.

Classic Knitted Socks

© Virginia Rose-Jeanes
These super simple Vanilla Latte socks by Virgina Rose-Jeanes are just a baby-step up from stocking stitch socks (known as vanilla socks) so are quick and straightforward to make. There are three sizes, plus variations for the cuff, heel flap and toes! Download the free sock knitting pattern on Ravelry.com