Changing yarn in single crochet is a fundamental technique used for creating color changes, adding new skeins when the old one runs out, or incorporating different yarn types. The key is to introduce the new yarn color during the final step of the last stitch worked in the old color.
Here’s how you typically change yarn in single crochet:
The Standard Single Crochet Color Change
This method ensures the new color is ready to be worked in the next stitch or row, creating a clean transition.
- Work the Last Stitch in the Old Color: Crochet your last single crochet stitch up until the very last step. This means you should have inserted your hook into the stitch, yarned over with the old color, and pulled a loop up through the stitch. You should now have two loops remaining on your hook.
- Introduce the New Yarn: Stop working the stitch with the old color. Pick up your new yarn color. According to the reference, you take your new color (often labeled CA or CB) and lay it on top of your hook. The reference notes that the tail is usually held facing down.
- Complete the Stitch with the New Yarn: With the new yarn laying on your hook, yarn over with this new color. Pull the new yarn through both loops that were on your hook.
You have now completed the last single crochet stitch using the new color for the final pull-through. This sets up your hook to begin the next stitch or row using the new yarn color.
Practical Tips for Changing Yarn
- Secure the Ends: After changing colors, make sure to leave a tail of a few inches for both the old and new colors. These tails should be woven in neatly later to secure the change and prevent unraveling.
- Tension: Keep a consistent tension when introducing the new yarn to avoid puckering or loose stitches at the color change point.
- Changing at the End of a Row: The cleanest color changes in single crochet often occur at the end of a row. Simply work the last stitch of the row as described above, then turn your work and begin the next row with the new color.
- Changing Mid-Row: While possible, changing color mid-row is more noticeable. You follow the same last-step method but will need to manage the yarn not currently in use (carrying it along the back or dropping it).
Changing yarn effectively in single crochet allows you to create beautiful stripes, intarsia designs, and seamless transitions in your projects.
