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5 Ways to Beat Yarn Boredom and Get Inspired Again

If you're like me, every now and then you might hit a patch where your yarn stash doesn't feel as exciting as it once did. Maybe you're getting bombarded with sales emails that no longer spark joy. Maybe you've filled a few online carts with yarn, knowing full well you won’t actually check out. It’s okay—this happens to all of us!

After that initial honeymoon stage of learning crochet or knitting and building your stash, it's completely normal to feel a little uninspired. But that doesn’t mean it’s time to give up or take a long break from something you love. Sometimes, all you need is a little spark to reignite that joy.

Here are five simple, creative ways to beat boredom and fall in love with your yarn stash all over again—plus one bonus idea if you’re feeling adventurous!

1. Create a “Use First” Bin

This is completely free and surprisingly effective. I started with a small bin and now I’ve got a whole tote full! The idea is to pull out yarns you already own that you're most excited about using—whether it’s the color palette, the texture, or the season they suit best.

Think cozy velvets, plush squishiness, or simply colors that speak to you. Keep this bin in plain sight so it's the first thing you go to when you're ready to start a new project. It keeps you focused, inspired, and helps you avoid forgetting about the gems hidden in your closet.

Watch the video where I explain my Use First Bin!


2. Learn a New Yarn-Adjacent Skill

When things start feeling repetitive, shake them up by exploring the wider world of fiber arts! I’ve been doing some initial research on spinning and dyeing yarn, and it’s honestly so exciting to imagine making something that’s completely my own from start to finish.

There are tons of beginner-friendly resources available, and you don’t need to dive all the way in right away. Start small. Test things out. You never know—you might fall in love with creating your own yarn and completely change the way you shop or stash! Read the BLOG POST HERE.

Check out my spinning journey!


3. Pair Yarns Together

One of my favorite ways to freshen up old yarn is by pairing it with something new—or unexpected. I’ve made hats that get compliments every time I wear them in videos, and each one was made by holding two yarns together. Sometimes it’s a discontinued color or a yarn I wasn’t sure how to use until I found its perfect match.

Mixing a variegated yarn with a bold solid can completely transform both skeins into something elevated. Experiment with combinations and see what new textures or effects you can create. To read about my favorite and most helpful yarn pairing, read THIS BLOG POST.

Here's one of the best pairings I've done!


4. Use a Yarn Size You Don’t Normally Reach For

Trying a yarn weight outside your comfort zone can add a whole new dimension to your crafting. I’ve been working on a basic beanie in fingering weight yarn using a small 3.25 mm hook—and let me tell you, it’s a whole different experience.

It’s the same pattern I usually use, but the scale makes it more engaging. On the flip side, if you typically use lightweight yarns, try going chunky! A super bulky shawl made in January is the perfect cozy companion for a snowy afternoon on the couch. Read the BLOG POST HERE.

See me change my mind about a few yarns!


5. See Yarn Through Someone Else’s Eyes

This one takes a little more effort, but the payoff is real. Try sharing your love of yarn with someone new. Maybe there's someone in your life who wants to learn to crochet. Offer to go yarn shopping with them or spend time helping them learn the basics. Read the BLOG POST HERE.

If you’re able, consider donating yarn to a local care center and crochet alongside residents. Seeing someone else's excitement about color, texture, or a new stitch can completely reframe the way you look at your own stash.

Let's talk more about this here!


Bonus Tip: Volunteer Your Yarn Time

If you're feeling extra generous with your time and supplies, look for ways to crochet with others in a group or community setting. Whether it’s donating yarn, teaching someone, or just crafting side-by-side, there’s something magical about the shared joy of making. It helps remind us why we fell in love with fiber arts in the first place.

Whether you're reorganizing your stash, diving into dye pots, or experimenting with new yarn weights, I hope this gives you the creative nudge you need to fall back in love with your yarn.

Watch the full video here!


Let me know if you've tried any of these—or if you have your own trick for shaking off the yarn blahs. Until next time, thanks for showing up and talking yarn with me!

💛 Shannon

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