How to Choose Hand-Blended Yarn for Your Next Project

Choosing yarn is usually the fun part of starting a new project. But when you're working with hand-blended novelty yarn, it can be a little different from choosing a regular yarn.

There are different strands, colors and textures mixed together, so the yarn itself can become part of the design.

Start With the Project

Before choosing a yarn, think about what you want to make.

A colorful blend can work nicely for a bag, hat, headband or phone strap. Smaller projects such as card holders, pouches, earrings and journal decorations are also a good way to try a new yarn.

 

If you're not sure how a particular blend will look, you can always make a small sample first.

Crochet or Knitting?

You can use hand-blended yarn for both crochet and knitting.

For crochet, simple stitches are a good place to start. For knitting, basic stitches can also let the different strands show through without making the project too complicated.

The hook or needle size can make quite a difference, too. Try a couple of sizes with a small sample and see which one gives you the look you like.

There isn't really a fixed rule here. A little experimenting usually works best.

You Don't Have to Use It Alone

One of my favorite things about hand-blended yarn is that you don't always have to use it on its own.

You can mix it with other yarns or craft materials and use it for small details, straps, edges or decorative sections.

It can also be combined with things like ribbons, beads, chains or journal materials.

Sometimes just a small amount of decorative yarn is enough to change the look of a project.

What Is Hand-Blended Yarn?

Hand-blended novelty yarn is made by gathering different finished yarn strands together into one blend.

The strands are not twisted or plied into a new spun yarn. Instead, they stay together as a mixed strand, creating the layered look that makes this type of yarn different.

Because every blend can have its own combination of strands and colors, I recommend trying a small section before starting a larger project.

Keep Your First Project Simple

If you've never worked with hand-blended yarn before, start small.

A phone strap, headband, pouch, card holder or journal decoration is enough to get a feel for the yarn.

Once you know how it works with your hook or needles, you can take it into larger projects.

There are no complicated rules. Pick a yarn you like, try a few stitches and see where it takes you.

A Note About Use

Lunova Yarn is designed for creative projects such as crochet, knitting, accessories and decorative crafts. It is not designed for direct-skin wear.

If you're looking for something different for your next project, have a look through the Lunova Yarn collection and see which blend catches your eye.