Making DIY Yarn for Crochet and Knitting from Upcycled Items
DIY yarn can be used to knit or crochet many things. For some projects, it is simply indispensable.
Any textile item that can be cut into strips will work. It can be made from wool, cotton, synthetic, or blended fabrics. The main requirement is that the fabric should not fray easily.
First, choose an item for your project. Wash, dry, and iron it if necessary. Cut off any attached details like collars, sleeves, or plackets. You need to end up with flat pieces without seams. Cut the fabric into strips 1.0–1.5 cm wide.
You will need a lot of them, and they can be of varying lengths.
On each strip, make small slits 5–10 mm long along the long edges. The slits should be centered, about 5 mm from the edge.
Place two strips with their short ends together.
Thread the first strip through the slit of the second, pulling it through until the slit is fully clear.
Pull the free end of the second strip through the slit of the first. This creates a secure loop.
Pull the ends to tighten the knot.
As the length increases, wind your yarn into a ball. You are now ready to start knitting or crocheting.
Similar strips are cut for rag rugs... But it's complicated here: knitting needles won't be enough - you'll need a special loom. My mother-in-law used to weave rugs. I cut the strips and also tried working on the loom. The rugs have survived to this day.