How to use leftover wool? - 15 DIY ideas

Every season, you knit scarves, snoods, mittens, little wool sweaters and other blankets for your family and friends? And now you have a whole collection of leftover balls of wool cluttering up your closets!
Regularly, during the big spring cleaning, we even wonder what to do with all these leftover wool. Give them away, but to whom? Recycle them, but how?
All knitting and crochet enthusiasts know this kind of situation!

In this practical sheet, we suggest small creations that require very little wool. What to liquidate your ball ends! Here are fifteen ideas for using up your little bits of wool.

1. a blanket with wool squares

How to make a blanket with wool squares? Knitting a patchwork blanket from wool is not complicated. You just have to sew together knitted squares. The advantage is that you can use different colors and therefore plenty of leftover balls of wool.
Beginners can use only moss stitch or stockinette stitch. More experienced knitters can use a variety of stitches such as devil's stitch, accordion stitch or fan stitch.
The larger the blanket, the more small pieces of yarn you will need. This might be a good opportunity to clean out your closets, or even your friends' closets!

2. small wool hearts

How to knit an easy wool heart? The knitted heart is made from the basic knitting stitches and the magic circle technique, which allows you to crochet in the round.
Depending on the wool you choose, you can make a coaster, a jewel, a key chain or a brooch.

3. a wool lampshade

Very easy to make, this 70's inspired lampshade is perfect for a cozy, vintage feel. The technique is simple: just tie your wool on the circle of the lampshade and then roll it up as many times as you want without cutting the thread. When you are satisfied with the result, finish with a new knot.
For a unique look, alternate light and dark colors to create more or less regular stripes. Have fun creating an original lamp with your yarn!

4. Wool pompons

There are different shapes of pompoms to adapt to your project: a round pompom to make a rug, a long pompom to make earrings... Give an ethnic style to a cushion by sewing big pompons on the sides.
How to make a pompom with wool? It is very easy to make pom-poms. Simply wrap a thread or wool on a support, knot and then cut the loops. For those in a hurry, there are even adapted devices.

5. A tawashi sponge

What is a tawashi sponge? It's a Zero Waste sponge from Japan. In addition to being knitted and getting rid of the leftover wool, it is eco-friendly, economical and can be reused at will. As soon as it is dirty, we put it in the machine and it's back for another round!
So to combine recovery and cleaning, we no longer hesitate to use these small homemade sponges to wash the dishes or clean the bathroom.

6. A personalized basket

Want to customize your tote bag in the blink of an eye? We have a solution for you: knitting!
The knitting machine, whether automatic or manual, will allow you to easily and quickly make a tubular woolen chain. Once your cord or cords are finished, all you have to do is sew an inspiring word or a cool pattern.
Using the end of your balls of wool, you can create colorful decorations!

7. Bag jewelry

You know the regressive jewelry with big colorful beads that's all the rage right now? Give one to your bag! It will be a more discreet way to wear it for those who would not totally assume them.
This bag jewel will go very well with plain fabrics, straw or wicker. Go for it!

8. A custom clutch

Personalize a bag that has become too ordinary with the knotted stitch technique (the one used for rugs, cushions, wall weaving...). Very simple to make, it will give a boost to any accessory!

9. A punch needle decoration

What is the punch needle? It is a variant of embroidery. For a few years now, this technique has given a real boost to classic embroidery. Thanks to a magic needle, you can quickly embroider relief patterns to create a soft and cocooning decoration.

10. A bonnet

Whether crocheted, knitted or knitting needles, the hat does not require much wool. You can make several by mixing colors, they will always be useful in winter.
You should know that several associations like the Petits Frères des Pauvres collect hats every year for the most destitute. In addition to getting rid of your ball ends, you will do a rewarding and satisfying action. Think about it!

11. An Amigurumi

What is an amigurumi? It's a small knitted or crocheted stuffed animal, straight from Japan. Often in the form of an animal, fruit or vegetable, this cute little creature is easily made with a hook and all kinds of yarn. Moreover, you can adapt them: as a cuddly toy, a rattle or a key ring... The choice is yours!

12. A head band

Our partner Alice Gerfault offers to knit two headband patterns : one in moss stitch and the other in jersey stitch. These headbands, accessible to all knitters, even the least experienced, will keep your ears warm this winter.

13. A string art frame

String art is the art of wrapping threads around pins stuck on a support to create an original pattern. This technique is relatively simple and within everyone's reach. Want to try it? Then make a colorful picture with some wool and a few nails!

14. An original greeting card

Exit felt pens and pencils! Make an original greeting card by decorating it with bits of wool. You can add beads, sequins or pretty stickers to make a real Christmas decoration.
In addition, it is a manual activity that will certainly please your children. Let them express themselves on cardboard sheets!

15. Multi-colored slippers

Keep your little ones warm this winter by making cozy, colorful slippers with a giant knitting machine. Take inspiration from our wool booties tutorial.
To change colors, simply tie an overhand knot between the new and old ball.

What about you? What are your ideas for using your leftover wool? Feel free to show us your creations made with leftover wool balls on our social networks.