What to Do With Extra Yarn: Donate, Sell, or Repurpose
- Feb 8
- 2 min read
Every maker has been there: you open your stash with a project in mind, and the yarn you have just doesn’t line up with the yarn you want to use. Maybe the weight isn’t right. Maybe the color no longer sparks joy. Maybe your plans changed—and the yarn didn’t.
Instead of forcing a project or letting yarn sit with a side of guilt, here are some thoughtful, practical options for when your yarn doesn’t match your plans anymore.
Option 1: Turn It Into Something That Gives Back
If a yarn isn’t right for you, it may be perfect for someone else.
Finished Objects to Donate
Many organizations welcome handmade items, especially in winter months. Consider using yarn for:
Hats
Scarves
Mittens
Cowls
Lap blankets
Places to look for donation opportunities:
Local shelters and warming centers
Community pantries
Schools or after-school programs
Hospitals or cancer centers (often need soft, washable items)
Senior centers or assisted living facilities
Mutual aid groups in your area
Tip: always check fiber requirements before starting because some organizations prefer machine-washable yarns.
Option 2: Donate the Yarn Itself
Sometimes the best gift is unused yarn.
Where to Donate Yarn
Local yarn shops (many accept yarn for classes or charity drives)
Schools, libraries, or community centers with craft programs
Senior centers or assisted living facilities
After-school programs
Nonprofit art organizations - In Nashville we have an organization called Smart Art.
A single skein might not feel like much but to a group, it can be a creative spark.
Option 3: Destash It to Someone Who Wants It
Places to Sell or Trade Yarn
Ravelry (great for reaching fiber folks who know yarn)
Facebook Marketplace
Yarn-specific Facebook destash groups
Discord destash channels (I'm a member of this one!)
Local maker groups or guilds
Be honest about yardage, fiber, and condition. Clear photos go a long way.
Option 4: Reimagine the Yarn, Not the Plan
Sometimes yarn feels “wrong” because we’re picturing the wrong project.
Before letting it go, ask:
Would this yarn shine with more texture?
Would it be better for a different craft? (knitting vs. crochet vs. Tunisian crochet)
Could it be a great accessory instead of a garment?
Would pairing it with a tonal change how it feels?
Is this a great yarn for experimenting or learning something new?
Shifting the project lens can turn hesitation into curiosity.
Option 5: Give Yourself Permission to Let It Go
The hardest part for many makers isn’t deciding what to do with yarn—it’s giving themselves permission to move on.
Your stash is meant to support your creativity, not weigh it down. Letting go of yarn that no longer fits your plans creates space for new ideas, new projects, and renewed joy.
A Gentle Reminder
Yarn is a tool, not every skein will become a handmade masterpiece. Whether you donate it, sell it, gift it, or transform it into something entirely unexpected, the “right” choice is the one that brings you relief and not regret.
