How to Rejoin Yarn Knitting? (Step-By-Step Guide)

Knitting is a beloved hobby for many, but even experienced knitters can run into the challenge of having to rejoin yarn in the middle of a project. 

Whether you’ve run out of yarn or simply want to switch colors, it can be frustrating to try and figure out the best way to join the new yarn without it showing or becoming unraveled. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore some helpful tips and techniques for rejoining yarn in knitting, so you can continue on with your project with ease and confidence. 

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced knitter, these tips will help you achieve a seamless transition and keep your project looking its best. So grab your knitting needles, and let’s get started!

Why Is My Yarn Separating?

If you’re experiencing your yarn separating while you’re knitting, there are a few potential reasons why this might be happening. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Tension issues: One of the most common reasons for yarn separation is incorrect tension. If you’re knitting too tightly or too loosely, it can cause the yarn to split apart. Make sure to adjust your tension to match the recommended gauge for your pattern.
• Yarn quality: The quality of the yarn can also play a role in whether or not it separates easily. Cheaper or lower-quality yarn may have more issues with splitting than higher-quality yarn.
• Fiber content: Certain types of yarn fibers, such as silk or bamboo, can be more prone to separating than others. This is because they have less “grab” than wool or cotton fibers.
• Knitting needles: The type of knitting needles you’re using can also make a difference. If you’re using needles that are too small for the yarn weight, it can cause the yarn to split. Conversely, using needles that are too large can cause the yarn to slip off the needle and separate.

If you’re experiencing yarn separation, try adjusting your tension, switching to higher-quality yarn, or changing your needle size to see if that helps. If the issue persists, it may be worth seeking advice from a more experienced knitter or a local yarn store.

How Do You Put Yarn Back on a Needle?

Putting yarn back on a needle can be a bit tricky, but with a little practice, it can become a simple and quick process. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to put yarn back on a needle:

1. First, locate the stitch where you need to reinsert the needle. If you’re picking up dropped stitches, you’ll need to identify the stitch that has unraveled.
2. Insert the needle from back to front into the stitch.
3. Take your yarn and wrap it counterclockwise around the right-hand needle. If you’re picking up a dropped stitch, you’ll want to make sure the yarn is wrapped around the stitch before you begin knitting again.
4. Use the right-hand needle to draw the loop through the stitch.
5. Slide the loop onto the left-hand needle, and you’ve successfully reinserted the stitch!
6. If you’re continuing to knit from this point, continue knitting as you normally would.

It’s important to note that different knitting patterns may require different techniques for reinserting stitches. For example, if you’re working a lace pattern, you may need to insert the needle into multiple stitches at once to create a more complex pattern. 

Always consult your pattern or seek guidance from a more experienced knitter if you’re unsure how to proceed.

How Do You Rejoin Yarn When Knitting?

Rejoining yarn when knitting is a common task, whether you’ve run out of yarn or simply need to switch to a different color. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to rejoin yarn when knitting:

1. Start by inserting the needle into the first stitch of the new section, as you would when starting a new row.
2. Leaving a tail of about 6 inches, tie a knot with the new yarn around the old yarn tail.
3. Hold the knot between your fingers and continue knitting the row as usual. Make sure to knit the first few stitches tightly to help secure the knot.
4. After you’ve knitted a few stitches, gently tug on the tails of both the old and new yarn to ensure the knot is secure.
5. Continue knitting with the new yarn until you’ve used up the tail from the knot, and the yarn is securely attached.
6. If you’re switching back to the old yarn, simply tie a knot with the new yarn and old yarn tails, and repeat the process in reverse to switch back to the old yarn.

It’s important to note that the knot should be tied loosely to prevent it from creating a bulky or noticeable bump in your knitting. Additionally, if you’re using a more delicate yarn, such as silk or bamboo, it may be better to weave in the ends rather than tying a knot to prevent the yarn from splitting or breaking.

How Do You Seal Yarn Together?

Sealing yarn ends together refers to the process of fastening the loose ends of yarn so that they do not unravel or come undone. In knitting or crocheting, this typically involves weaving the ends back into the fabric of the project using a tapestry needle.

Sealing yarn together is important to prevent your knitted or crocheted projects from unraveling or coming apart. Here are a few ways to seal yarn together:

Weaving in ends

One of the most common ways to seal yarn together is to weave in the ends. This involves using a tapestry needle to thread the yarn tail back and forth through the stitches on the back side of your work, creating a woven pattern. This technique creates a secure bond that won’t come undone.

Knots

You can also seal yarn together with knots. However, it’s important to use knots sparingly, as they can create bulky areas in your project. To create a knot, simply tie a loop with the yarn tails, pull it tight, and trim the excess. You can also use a surgeon’s knot for added security.

Fray Check

Another option is to use a product like Fray Check, which is a clear, liquid sealant that can be applied to the ends of your yarn to prevent fraying and unraveling. However, it’s important to test the product on a small section of your project first to ensure it doesn’t discolor or damage the yarn.

Heat sealing

Some types of synthetic yarn, such as nylon or polyester, can be heat-sealed using a lighter or candle flame. Hold the ends of the yarn close to the flame for a few seconds until they melt together. However, this method should be used with caution, as it can be dangerous and may damage some types of yarn.

In general, weaving in ends is the preferred method for sealing yarn together, as it creates a secure bond without adding bulk or potentially damaging the yarn.

Which Types of Yarns Are Less Likely to Separate?

When knitting, some yarns are less likely to separate than others. Here are some types of yarns that are known to be less prone to separating:

• Yarns with tighter twists: Yarns with a tighter twist are generally less likely to split apart when knitting. Look for yarns labeled as “high twist” or “plied” for better stitch definition and stability.
• Smooth yarns: Yarns with a smoother texture, such as cotton or silk, are less likely to snag or split compared to more textured yarns like wool.
• Synthetic yarns: Synthetic yarns like acrylic, nylon, or polyester are less likely to separate than natural fibers like wool or alpaca. They are also less prone to pilling, which makes them great for projects that require durability and low maintenance.
• Yarns with good elasticity: Yarns that have good elasticity, such as wool blends or yarns with a small amount of spandex, can help prevent stitches from slipping off the needles or separating while knitting.

It’s important to note that even with these types of yarns, proper tension, and technique are still essential to avoid separation while knitting.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, rejoining yarn while knitting is an essential skill that every knitter should learn. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently and seamlessly rejoin your yarn without having to worry about knots or unsightly gaps in your work. 

Remember to weave in your ends to secure the yarn and prevent unraveling, and choose yarns that are less likely to separate to make your knitting experience smoother and more enjoyable. 

With practice and patience, you’ll be able to rejoin your yarn like a pro and take on more complex knitting projects with ease.

If you enjoyed learning about how to rejoin yarn while knitting, then be sure to check out our other knitting articles on the website. 

From selecting the right yarn for your project to mastering advanced techniques like cable knitting and lace knitting, there’s always something new to discover. So, take some time to explore our other knitting articles and keep growing your skills as a knitter. Happy knitting!