Overconsumption In The Yarn Community: A Deep Dive

[@HappyCraftyHomemaker]

I listened to this while I was folding laundry! You are correct. There is also a problem I have seen where we are KZbinrs aren't being fully transparent with our audiences and with ourselves about what we actually are using, or what becomes "waste". I know you, Cinnamon Stitches and I have all done hauls but have also shared what we have had to purge as well. I adds to an illusion of consumption without the... honesty about maybe where we make mistakes so it can lead to a lot of viewers seeing themselves as being worse than others. It is a strange thing I have seen a lot of comments about recently in craft forums. Where a lot of new yarny crafters are feeling inadequate because they have wasted money on something they loved but no longer like but they never see us talking about those purchases.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Yay, thank you for watching and commenting! As always, you’ve said it so well 👏🏻💯 Well I’ll be the first to admit, I have definitely made mistakes lol!!! 😂

[@dealred02]

As a new crocheter, I fell in the habit of just buying anything on clearance. Now I’m looking at some of these like ugh! I hate this. Now I wait for just the right yarn for the right project. The rest is basic colors. I’ve learned my lesson. Thanks for talking about this

[@eastlynburkholder3559]

@dealred02 he Helical striping , makes colors better sometimes, allows mixing of different weights

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

I’m so glad it resonated with you! I did the exact same thing!

[@LyraStitchery]

I have about 5 different shades of gray yarn so multiple skeins. I don't even like gray. What do I do with it all.

[@dealred02]

@@LyraStitchery mix it in with a color you love or make something for someone else in grey. I have 4 rainbow cakes. I wear neutrals. We should trade. 😂

[@arashiuchiha1591]

Use the stuff you don't like on stuff you'll give away to friends and family. They won't know.

[@valerysamantha3646]

Thank you. I had to leave so many online craft communities because it turned into people going BUY BUY BUY and showing off wealth, but instead of bags and shoes, it was yarn. I feel like a lot of us became hand-make artists because we were tired of cheaply-quickly-made things for the purpose of overconsumption, so watching my favorite communities turn into capitalistic hoarding cesspools breaks my heart. Taking something that is about delayed gratification and making it about instant cha-ching feeling is gross and wasteful.

[@LyraStitchery]

Yes I almost got sucked into monetize your hobby and I ended up buying a bunch of yarn only to realize no I don't want to monetize my hobby. The closest would be a KZbin channel. But nothing further than that. Now I have a bunch of yarn I feel stuck with.

[@arashiuchiha1591]

This too. Or how snobby/clique-y it got. I'll never forget the day I had to announce I had to leave my local yarn group to take care of my dying father. These ladies hugged me so tight, cried with me and I missed them so much... I wanted to join again after he passed to try to help through the grief and instead the group disbanded... So I tried online groups, but all of it felt so, so cold and just "buy, buy, buy" and people trying to scam you... and people getting jealous. My speciality is blankets, but I also crochet on the miniature and let me tell you, people will either think it's NEAT when you can crank out a bunch of tiny granny squares made of crochet thread to make a dollhouse quilt, OR they'll get jealous and be rude.

[@jessmakingit]

I understand. What I can add is that sometimes (possibly often) it may not actually be about showing off wealth. It may be about behind the scenes stuff - see my comment & reply for details. Then when you get online, you can often get the "it's ok" from fellow yarnies by showing your stash or what you purchased. For me, it was the warm fuzzies that I needed to make me feel better about the purchases that I'd made and regretted, but couldn't stop, until I addressed the reasons for my behavior. I suspect I might not be the only one. I'm an equal opportunity hoarder. Yarn and fabric are just the most recent items. It's not about wealth because a previous obsession was saving cardboard, justified by saying I might need it someday, or it's too good to throw away. I know that it's ridiculous behavior. Just couldn't stop. I'm hoping that now that I've addressed potential causes that it will stop. Take care.

[@amrose250]

My problem is my sister giving me her unused yarn. ( she is an impulse buyer). It’s usually pink, value yarn. I don’t care for either, so this coming year I am going to crochet some lap blankets and donate to a local nursing home. Win win.

[@joannunemaker6332]

Great idea!

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

That’s a great idea! It will get them out of your stash and benefit someone else!

[@arashiuchiha1591]

Donate to hospitals too and heck, something you can do is, veteran shelters as well. Something my grandma did was make baby blankets for NICU babies, she and her best friend would meet up at our house, they'd ask me to put something on the TV for background nosie (bless their hearts, my grandma and nana were angels for not minding me being hardcore in my Pokemon phase) and they'd gossip and crochet for hours. A few times, they let me go through the blankets and pick one for one of my baby dolls I had.

[@carolosborne126]

Intersting topic. I've been crocheting for a couple of months so a newbie for sure. My 91 yo mom gave me loads of skeins because physicallly she can't crochet anymore. She belonged to a church group that crocheted prayer blankets to give away to anyone in the hospital or going through a hard time in life. Each blanket had 3 beads. When I started sorting through the yarn, I found several blankets she had started so, have taken up her torch and am going to start finishing the blankets and have a purpose for all the yarn I inherited.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

That is absolutely wonderful!

[@ereyncrafts]

First video watching from this channel: So welll said! Love the pantry illustration! I’ve been on a yarn buying ban this year and only stash busting and it’s been awesome and pushing me creatively. I splurged on a sale during Black Friday but only one skein and had a project in mind that I’m already working on. You had so many good points. Thank you!

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Hello and welcome! I appreciate you watching and commenting, it means a lot to me. I wish you much success on your yarn management this year, it sounds like you’re off to a great start!

[@barbaramalcolm1621]

When I began knitting, about 35 years ago, I would pick a pattern and then choose the yarn. I never had more than one project to work on. I never had a stash of yarn until (on three separate occasions, I had the opportunity to purchase yarn at extremely reduced prices because of store closings. Of course I ended up buying yarn that I really had no idea what to do with it and in several cases didn’t have more than a couple of skeins, etc. Then I started watching You Tube to learn how to crochet. Needless to say, I would watch yarns haul videos and mystery bags openings. I then found the Hobby Lbby annual sale. So between Mystery Bags and Hobby Lobby and store closings I have quite the stash - but unfortunately I usually don’t have enough of one yarn for a large project. So as you mentioned, I do a lot of beanies. I have stopped watching yarn hauls and going to Hobby Lobby annual sales. I did have an opportunity to learn about fibers and what kind of yarn I like working with. Now I spend my time trying to pair yarn with a pattern based on the yardage. I’d rather do the opposite - find the pattern first, then the yarn. Thanks Shannon for addressing this subject.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Hi Barbara! It sounds like our paths have been similar! I think a lot of us must do that! I think you’re going about that in a great way!!! And an awesome way to use up some things in the yarn stash. Great tip! 😃

[@jessmakingit]

I'm trying to do better about conservative choices now after 45 years of knitting & crocheting. I have to say, I was born into this problem....I remember when I was about 20, my mom, sister-in-law, and I went together on a semi-truck load of yarn because it had filled the upstairs of the person's house. I remember thinking I will never have this much yarn. I now sit with 3+ rooms that are filled with totes of yarn. It's invading. Much of this has accrued since becoming an empty nester. But 2024 is the end of that. Like I said in one of my comments, "in 2025 I'm reclaiming my time & my space." Cheers & take care.

[@RainbowWrangler]

I have adhd and autism and crochet is one if my favourite hobbies. I grew up pretty broke but we are not now. My husband used to buy me whatever yarn i wanted BUT since I have adhd every new yarn i saw i wanted to immediately use and id have a project for it. It quickly led to a huge amount of wips heaps of yarn and feeling overwhelmed with it all. Now we have a system. Im still allowed all the yarn but theres rules. (I imposed them not him he just enforces it for me) i have 2 big long project wips (blankets dresses etc) 1 medium wip (cardigans tops pillow cases and sets of smaller home decor items like place mats) and up to 3 small wips (hats scarves gloves small bags/purses socks small amigarumi etc) and no more than that. I can get more yarn for a new project of similar size when one is finished. (Another exception is frogging old items i no longer wear or is damaged. I permit myself to make stuff with that yarn freely since i design my own patterns and its great for working out the kinks before I use the nice new stuff) The only exception for buying extra yarn, is if theres a good sale on something i will definitely use or ive used before and loved. In those cases my husband puts them in a cupboard in his office until im ready to start a project with it instead of being able to just start a project on impulse. Adhd is rhe devil 😂 this also acts as motivation for my dopamine driven brain because im looking forward to using my nice stashed yarn for a new project. That can up the motivation to finish something INSTEAD of the dopamine hit of the new thing. Id also like to add that i use/wear everything i make it doesn't just sit. I also make many gifts for friends and family. (Though the rules for that is if they ASK for an item rather than me just giving it for a birthday or something then they have to buy the yarn before I start and if its last minute-ive had people beg for last minute baby shower type gift's for other people etc- then im gonna ask for a little bit extra for my time. Some people think thats unfair but imo if they didn't plan and now ive got to stay up all night so you can take a gift tomorrow then im getting a lil something something for me 😂

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

It sounds like you’ve have figured out a really great system, I appreciate you sharing it! I think it will help me and anyone reading this!!!

[@Margot_Lazarus]

Hey Shannon, I really loved this video! It gave me some ideas on how to handle my out of control stash and I'm definitely going to watch the other video you recommended about when you had too much yarn. Very helpful way to look at yarn stash and figure out what's controlled and what's not and some ideas on how to reduce the stash. Thank you

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

You are so welcome! I’m glad it was helpful! 🫶🏻

[@TheNMDavis]

I enjoyed this video. I had to unsubscribe from all my yarn company emails because the temptation was too much. That has helped me alot.

[@showandtellmeg]

I totally agree about leveling up your stash over time. I think anyone who loves a bargain always starts off buying all the clearance yarn. Ive weeded out some but some of it has come in handy over the years. I have such a crazy stash, but I do keep it digitally up to date on Ravelry, which makes all the difference. Without that, my stash would be useless. My problem is I get excited to use all of it still when I start hunting through my yarns lol. Not enough hours in the day!

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Lol I get what you’re saying and you’re right it is probably very smart to digitize it!!!

[@corinna5351]

Very good video! I started knitting 20 years ago and I also was excited every time I found a new pattern. I was soon overwhelmed with the sheer mass and I knew I would NEVER be able to make enough free time to knit so much rather quickly. Now I only buy the yarn once I start a new project, because then I‘m REALLY excited about it and don‘t have to force myself to finally use it up. Also I hate cluttered spaces, it‘s a win-win for me. Keep up the good work! 👏🏻

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Thank you Corinna! It sounds like you’ve got a great perspective on keep your yarn in check! 😃

[@mountainjune]

We're all consumers, we have to be. There is a difference though, between consuming and overconsuming and I think you really nailed that difference. (Love that Supernova) 😍😍 Edit: If and when I get tired of yarn, I will go back to sewing for awhile. I kind of expect to once the weather gets warmer.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

That’s such a good way of balancing your hobbies and not overdoing them! Yeah, it’s tricky and we have to be careful! Thanks for the support! 🫶🏻

[@heatherwood756]

Great video. I sorted my stash and it all had to fit in boxes on a shelf. I have to admit some of the lids don't quite fit anymore. This is a very sensitive topic and I think you presented it very fairly.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Thank you, and thanks for watching and commenting too!

[@SarahJo]

I find it funny that you said sometimes it's hard to get inspired only by patterns and you have to touch the yarn first, because I'm the opposite! I'm a pattern first person all the way and almost never buy yarn unless it already has a project assigned! That's a double edged sword when it comes to over consumption though because on one hand I don't really impulse buy yarn, but on the other I can't really declutter because I feel like "well then I'm not making that pattern I fell in love with"

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

I can totally see that!!!

[@CCPShiny]

I’m not really a crocheter (though I might try it for fun at some point), but your videos have actually been great to watch with how down to earth you are, and with how applicable your commentary and suggestions are to crafting/hand-making pursuits in general 😊 great work, and looking forward to more deep dives!

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Thank you so much for the support!

[@fvidder2210]

I so agree about the pantry thing. Having basics that suit your style is super helpful. Having nonsense that sounded like a good idea at the time is clutter in either case. The big worry I have that has helped me stop jumping on every great deal is that I mostly buy animal fiber yarn, and no matter how well you store it, there's a chance that a too-big stash that's out of sight in some closet will be breeding masses of moths without me realizing. The scarcity mentality is definitely a big part of it for me, especially since I live somewhere where I have access to really amazing destashes of high end products that are discontinued. Truly, genuinely, these specific deals won't come again. The only thing that helped was acquiring a large enough stash that all but the rarest and fanciest yarn stops feeling so out of reach or rare. I've realized that, for me, a lot of it is about the thrill of the chase. Box store sales are intriguing, but some one-of-a-kind estate sale situation is irresistible... But I can get the same thrill by helping someone distribute Grandma's yarn or whatever, keeping only a little for myself and sharing my amazing find with crafty friends. I'm not advocating overbuying regular stuff and then pushing one's clutter onto others, but sometimes, a deal that requires free time and effort to get is something one's friends actually want and don't have the capacity to get for themselves. All of the fun of acquisition, much less need for long-term storage! I definitely find it much easier to destash by giving a genuinely wanted gift to another crafter than by selling unused skeins. I don't think acquisition itself is that bad if it's free yarn from someone else destashing and then you do them the favor of breaking the lot up and redistributing in smaller quantities. Ditto if you're buying from a local thrift shop and then recirculating things. People often act like enjoying buying things (or getting things) is *itself* the problem. To me, the actual problem is overwhelming your living space, spending more than you can afford, supporting big chains you don't particularly want to support, or supporting the creation of more new stuff than we actually need. Having fun with the resale market is a good solution, especially if that involves local businesses that you want to succeed. (Obviously, this depends heavily on having the luxury of fun local businesses, whether that's LYS or thrift stores.) I tend to work yarn first, so those cool going out of business sales are a huge win for me. I don't have the "Oh no, this isn't enough yarn for a project" problem. I *do* have the "Oops, turns out I don't like this type of yarn" problem, but that's getting better as I gain experience. I definitely agree with you though: most people should not be buying just one skein most of the time unless they're knitting socks. Two or three skeins can do lots of things. One skein often ends up being a problem. There are definitely a lot of influencers who have the budget for $$$$$$ hauls and a lot of sales that come around constantly. It leads to some unrealistic ideas. One thing I want to say is that even if you're on a super limited budget, a sweater's quantity of fancy natural fibers may be possible. A sweater's quantity of more common natural fibers is definitely possible. If you're not into that, that's cool, but if the issue is just price, there are plenty of opportunities on facebook marketplace et al. that require patience and time more than cash. You don't have to settle for what's available at a box store unless that's what you prefer.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences! I totally agree! I wish I had more access to destashes around here but I also go to estate sales for all the other one of of a kind treasures lol 😂

[@SarahJo]

Your thing about "if you say I can't have any I want some" is interesting because I read about this concept of abstainers vs moderaters once, and it was basically like for some people its easier if they just never do something, while for others it's easier to do things once in a while. I'm definitely an abstainer, if I say "I'm not buying whatever for x amount of time" that's easy because I just don't have to think about it, but a long term *whatever* budget would be difficult. But some people are the opposite! And knowing which type you are can help you adjust your habits

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

I totally agree! An example is I like keeping a few sweet treats in the pantry, I know they are there in case I want them, but I rarely want them. But if I don’t have access to any, it is on my mind much more!

[@sophyyee8640]

Around 2 months ago I bought 20 skeins of yarn. Each shein of yarn had a purpose in mind. I did not buy just any random yarn. So far I used 12 sheins of yarn and now I am ready for christmas. The other 8 skeins of yarn will be used for the new year.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Thants so awesome, you’re doing a great job!

[@elaineboone8567]

I have dyed a lot of Knit Picks bare yarn. I use Wilton food dye and my microwave. No need to have special pots and bowls. Food safe, so a safe procedure with children. I used many different colors for sock yarn. The socks have been worn and machine washed at least monthly for over 10 years with no fading. Knit Picks and We crochet are my favorite sites to order from. Same yarns but We Crochet has a lower free shipping point.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

That’s so awesome, thank you for the advice I really appreciate it! 😃

[@elaineboone8567]

@ I was worried that the color would fade, but it didn’t. I have also dyed with Kool-aid, but the color choice is limited. I appreciated your topic today. I have reached SABLE Stash Acquired Beyond Life Expectancy. I am 78 and have a beautiful stash of yarn that will last me the rest of my life. I love sharing it with friends. With it all inventoried on Ravelry, I can easily find what they need. Since much of it was given to me, I can pass it on.

[@pearl_b]

Wow this is so real 😅 I got back into knitting and crochet like a year and a half ago after after many years and omg I feel prey to like all of the tactics the stores use to rope you in aha. I ended up with SO much yarn I didn’t even have plans for and some I found out that I didn’t like. I didn’t realize that there’s super good sales literally all the time too .. I’ve really really tried to calm down on buying yarn this year because I just couldn’t keep it organized and didn’t like so much of it. Ended up donating and giving a lot away, which helped.

[@IzzyHasADHD]

I donate my over stash (mostly donated by family members who were excited that I started crochet and knitting) to people who want to learn. If you have a local knitting circle, it's a good way to pay it forward and get someone inspired! Think closet swap but for yarn. I inherited a whole crate of knitting needles and donated a bunch of it to my local family help center. Not everyone has the budget to get started, maybe there's someone near you who could make good use of the items that have been gathering dust in your stash ❤

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

I love that so much! ❤️

[@SarahJo]

Currently working with yarn I bought from someone else's destash! It was a win-win imo, they get some of their money back, and I get to use a fantastic yarn I love on a college student budget!

[@jam_is_jammin]

When first starting out it, it's hard to know how much yarn and time you need to complete a project. I have no concept of how long it will take me to use the yarn I buy. Guess that will come with experience. My favorite videos to watch are stashbuster and scrap yarn videos, which is funny, cuz I don't have much scrap yet.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

I hear ya! It takes time to learn those things and that's ok. 😊

[@estherroos4908]

I’m someone who needs options to choose from, and eventually I do use all the yarn I buy, so while sometimes I may have a lot of yarn, i can always store it and having options helps my creativity.

[@gisellel12357]

I’m the same. For me it’s like a painters palette and collection of paints and brushes. Takes less space but cost can be comparable. You don’t wait to paint an ocean to buy blue paint. And if you use pastels, oils, watercolors, you need them all at hand. A lot of my projects are impulsive and I love having usually the yarn I need at hand. It’s really satisfying. I definitely don’t have as much as some people here but I have a lil of each, mohair, wool, different sizes, and it works out so far for me. I also rarely buy anything for myself. Not big on makeup, shoes or clothes so to splurge in one way feels ok for me.

[@MM-pw3wb]

I enjoy your thoughts,honesty and pleasant speaking voice. Thanks from a knitter.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement 😊 And knitters are ALWAYS welcome here!

[@arashiuchiha1591]

I actually forced myself, to stop buying yarn 4 years ago when I realized I was having a health issue with my wrists and needed to stop knitting and crocheting for awhile. I have so much yarn, Id on't know what I'll ever do with, same with fabric, so I told myself "No more. Not unless it's something I really, REALLY, really love and it's the LAST one." or if someone gets me a bag of yarn as a gift. I started to get motivation to crochet again, my goal is to work through mostly my stash and just refuse to buy anymore. I also wonder sometimes, if we as a society are having a massive episode of PTSD because after my dad passed I had issues controlling the itch to spend, because buying new shit replaced the serotonin his presence gave before. After the pandemic I saw all of this just ramp up to all of these ridiculous levels and I wonder if the time in lockdown when everyone was ordering shit all the time and then also did hauls to cope with stress, just turned into this buy buy buy sell sell sell mindset. Because I admit, during lockdown I bought more yarn then I could use... and I had a wrist injury so at the time I COULDN'T EVEN CROCHET BUT I BOUGHT YARN

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

I think you may have hit the nail on the head here! Thank you so much for sharing this. We do a lot of strange things to cope !!!

[@arashiuchiha1591]

@@ShannonTalksYarn Yeah! I actually found a better way to get that "retail therapy" itch, without buying anything. I got into 3D art the last two years and there's sites to find assets and clothing for models where it's all 100% free. If I get the itch to shop, I just browse free sections and book mark assets I can use for my artwork later. That's helped me break the yarn buying habit actually!

[@BeeWOWdbyAprilLee]

I fell for overconsumption for sure. I just moved from Indiana back home to Pennsylvania. I didn't actually realize just got much yarn i had collected. I literally have all my yarn to my best friend who teaches people to crochet and she let's them shop this stash. I kept my$20-$30 hanks and a little bit of some other yarn. Her hubby wasn't happy with how much yarn i gifted her but she was totally appreciative.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

I think the amount we have really sneaks up on us! You’re not alone, we just don’t see how much the collection has grown! Well it sounds like you were able to help a friend who will in turn help many others so it’s a very happy ending!

[@jessmakingit]

I realized that I really had too much stuff when I felt the need to tell my husband that I was going to be stash diving and if He hears a loud noise, he should come dig me out, and that I was serious when I said this because I new a crapalanche was definitely a possible way to be injured. 2024 was about evaluating the problem. 2025 will be about reclaiming my spaces and my time and making sure that I'm making purchases that are not going to be regretted before they even arrive. Spinning is so good. Dyeing is so good and while you may not always get exactly what you thought you were aiming toward, it's still so rewarding because you have that start to finish "I made it" feeling. In addition to the things you recommended trying, you can also try: weaving, tatting, rug hooking to use up some of that yarn.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

That’s a great way to look at things! I love your plan and I hope it works out! And thanks for the tips too 😃

[@jessmakingit]

I had to break the cycle of watching hauls in order to stop having my own huge hauls. I had to track the sales to prove that they would happen all the time and what was really 'regular price' every other week, etc. I also had to track what yarn I actually use. Turns out it's my own hand dyed yarn, but I would get sucked in by the color combination of commercial yarns and then not love the fiber or texture when it arrived. Ugh! So now I have a Pinterest board that I save a link to the yarn color to and it stops me from buying all the colors I like. It doesn't solve the problem completely, but like a 90% fix for me. I also had to set some rules about buying yarn: - Sales happen all the time & sometimes yarn is clearanced for a reason & the reason is no one likes it. - If I've purchased yarn, I'm not allowed to buy more of it unless I've actually swatched it, or used some of it from the initial purchase. Lesson is I may not even like working with it if I haven't tried it, so why buy more. Maybe on clearance for a reason. -I am not allowed to buy because I'm bored or sad. -I am not allowed to invade more of the house with yarn. I actually need to get it back down to 1 room first. -I needed to tell myself, "I don't own a yarn store. I don't want a yarn store. I don't need to buy like I have a yarn store." -There will always be a new yarn that I probably want. I will never be completely out of yarn. -I must try to watch a yarn review video on the certain yarn so that I can see it worked up & get some more info before buying blindly. -I have been in denial about what type of yarn I physically can use - get rid of any yarn that is bulky and super bulky & don't buy anymore, no matter how pretty, soft, or inexpensive it is. -No novelty yarn unless I absolutely have to have it for a project and I am willing to start the project right away. I find I just don't use it. I like looking at it and how some feels, but hate working with most of it and it's generally not my style. However, this lead to the imaginary side hustle that I'll talk about below & the imaginary yarn store above. Probably the biggest thing I had to ask myself is....Why am I making this purchase? Address 'feelings', FOMO, desire for the colors, supplying the side hustle that is only in my head (that's cheap, you could make money by making XYZ with this yarn), and a buffet of other random things that have nothing to do with the yarn. If it's not ACTUALLY about the yarn, then I need to figure out what it is about and then take care of that. Often that means I've been working too much and not able to dye yarn enough lately and I really just need to stop browsing sale yarn and use that time to dye some of my own yarn, since that's what I really love to do & love to use. This is always a good topic & thank you for the video. Take care.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

I appreciate you sharing this and allowing yourself to be vulnerable. I know this will help it just me but other viewers as well! 🫶🏻

[@jessmakingit]

@@ShannonTalksYarn Thank you. I hope it helps. A lot of people with massive yarn stashes don't even realize they are doing it until they have a hoard. I'll be honest, in my case it was a combination of unaddressed feelings and finally not being super duper poor anymore. The feelings are a harder thing, but the 'scarcity mentality' was easy for me to spot. Also for years I was taking care of family needs. But then along with empty nest and more unassigned funds, as well as my adult kids saying 'get it, you deserve it' became the perfect storm to buy whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted, and everytime I was sad, bored, overwhelmed, not getting enough artsy fartsy time, I would buy more supplies. That included yarn. That being said, I'd say that this might be behind more stash hoarders of a certain age, then we know. I'd say to others to be gentle with fellow yarnies that might have a hoard. They probably aren't doing it as a show of wealth. They might have other stuff going on. We just don't know. 😄

[@avidreader8521]

I'd like to weigh in on the trying new things: I wholeheartedly agree with that. I learned how to crochet in middle school from my Mom (for a given measure of learned, as she only used the DC, because all she made was granny squares), and for years I never learned how to read a pattern and exclusively made blankets or scarves in acrylic yarn. I got really frustrated when I figured out pattern charts because I wanted to make shawls but they all came out really bad. In hindsight, it was a mismatch between yarn and pattern; worsted weight acrylic that doesn't set does not make nice and drapey lacework shawls. I ended up putting down crochet as a hobby for other reasons and only recently came back to it, where I forced myself to learn how to read patterns and - through the intervention of my sister, who made me go to a local yarn festival where I bought a bunch of different things that weren't available in Michaels, AC Moore, or JoAnn's, then found an LYS - found out my happy place is lace/fingering weight, high wool content yarn in glittery and/or bright colors. I LOVE it, but it's also not cheap. I prioritized buying things on sale and clearance so I would have a stash of yarn I liked, now that I knew better what that was. And there are still things that I will buy if they are on clearance almost no matter what either because I know I like them (ArtYarns glitter mohair 😍) or because I want to try it out and can't pass up the price (half price cashmere because everybody else thought bright yellow and hot pink were hideous? Score! 🎉) I guess what I mean to say is agreement that trying things and hoarding are not always bad things.

[@Cookies-i2f]

I love visiting my stash in the closet. I collected from thrift stores and sales. I knit everything toys, food, dolls, sweaters baby, children, hats,gloves. I like to have lots of colours in dk and sport, like a paint pallette. I need acrylic, cotton and wool. I need it all.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

I love spending time with my stash too!

[@KD-dc2fd]

I tend to only do big hauls of yarn at knitting festivals from traveling hand dyers which is about 1-2 times a year. I also enjoy buying souvenirs yarn when I’m in a new city and want to visit a yarn store. I rarely buy yarn online because I like seeing in IRL and it’s more tactile of an experience.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

That’s sounds really awesome actually!

[@slowcrochet]

Ooooohhh Shannon, don't look at my pantry and see the three bottles of chili powder and two cans of mustard seeds because I forget I have them and keep buying more... 😅😂 Also - that threshold shipping gets my hackles up. If it's not a good deal with shipping costs, then it's not a good deal. 🙂🙃🙂❤

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Hahaha, how do you think I ended up with 8 sweet and sours!?!?!? 😂😂😂

[@sekaihatsu]

Overconsumption is an issue for me and am on a journey to change my brain patterns towards the "lack" mentality that i grew up with but didn't have a name for or realize it was the root. I've had a few yarn chicken projects from clearance yarn (it was all that was left) currently : Took me 4 attempts to get a sweater that fit (on sleeve island now).

[@justcrys]

I used to go crazy during clearance sales too, and you know what? Most of that yarn stayed in my stash unused because I would never get a deal like that again! I've switched to only buying yarn that knows what it wants to become.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Yeah, I totally get that clearance sale mentality! Sounds just like me lol 😂

[@daqtaghhasfibers]

I am working on a healthy yarn stash instead of just hoarding. I have started to not buy yarn if I don't see myself working up a project soon after I bought it. I was that one that just bought because pretty and I am working up lots of those yarns at the same time as I am working on my conscious bought yarns for projects. I'd love to see a video about a more healthy stash. Iwish you all a very happy and loving holiday however you are celebrating it. Stay safe and awesome.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

It sounds like you’ve got a really good perspective on it! And you aren’t alone, I’ve totally bought yarn just because it was pretty!!! Thank you for the video idea, it’s a great idea! I hope you have a wonderful weekend and holiday too! 🫶🏻

[@josephpoole3942]

May I ask what are the yarns standing up on top of everything else in the top right? I've seen them in your background before and I'm so intrigued, they look like skeins of fishermans wool but I've never seen it in those colors.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

It’s Lion Brand Respun. So it is acrylic, although I wish it were wool!!! I love the colors so much. A little tip tho, the claim it’s a 4weight yarn, and in my experience it is not! Definitely a 3 weight! But other than that, I think it’s a great budget acrylic!

[@iknowright140]

I took over a classroom of someone who was like this, I had to sort and store over 1000 balls of yarn. No idea why any classroom would need that much, but because it was a school resource I couldn’t throw it away, but it takes up valuable storage space. I’ve tried giving it away to other classes but no one else wants it. It’s really strange Issue to have.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Oh my gosh, that is a strange position to be in! I understand not wasting resources but if it’s actually hindering you by being there, that’s a problem! I hope there’s a solution and you aren’t stuck with it indefinitely!!!!

[@juliajs1752]

Thank you for your interesting thoughts and for actually pointing to the problems! I have a stash that will last me through my lifetime and reincarnation, and it took me a few years to realise that I had zero impulse control because I was still reeling from my mother's sudden death years before. Everything I saw I needed to have NOW, because who knew if I would live to buy it in a month? Realising that helped a lot, and I have bought very little yarn since then. Of course, I'm also a spinner, so let's not talk about my fiber stash, which will last me through several reincarnations and provides yarn as well!

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

lol I can totally see how buying fiber can be the same way!!!

[@brithaelfic8975]

Bonjour from France district Auvergne! Thanks for this useful video. I have a lot of remainig yarns. I use all of this for memory blakets, it is fast and easy to to knit and so nice once finished! ❤❤❤

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Hello and welcome! 🤗

[@maryb8150]

I’m just getting to the point of wanting to start using a higher quality yarn. I watch yarn hauls only to see what’s where and how much since I’m on a fixed income

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Yep, I found it super helpful to do that too! One of my favorite “nicer”yarn brands is Drops. They are small skeins, like 50G, but very reasonable prices. I’ve gotten it from wool warehouse. And the shipping from the UK was under $7!

[@aw66164]

I've found that I'm not a stash person in general, I have a very specific idea in mind for each project and I want to find a specific, ideal yarn. If I have a yarn that wasn't intended for a specific project, it just won't ever be used. I also don't really enjoy scrappy projects, so it's challenging for me to use the leftovers I have already. I'm unfortunately working through the bag of yarn that I have from before I knew this about myself, I don't like the feeling of coming up with a project for a yarn instead of the other way around.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

It’s all about the process of discovering what you like!

[@colbyreader]

I have a big stash but it’s all second hand except for a few Amazon purchases for a specific project. You save so much by thrifting or just sharing yarn supplies

[@alexandriadillhoff7069]

Overconsuption and Undercomsumption trends kinda miss the point which is to jaut be conscious of what you are doing. I LOVE a new challenge and therefore buy new patterns and rhw yarn to go with them, I also adore new yarns and will buy a skien for a hat or a pair of socks just because it's pretty. It's crazy that we can just be thoughtful consumers. Like It's OK to buy the pretty yarn, but it's also OK to take two months and do scrappy projects or stash busting projects. Both can exist together.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

💯👏🏻YES

[@dianabutler9570]

Thank you so much for this information it was very helpful 😊

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

You’re very welcome!

[@moonmysticcottage]

okay what is that chunky yarn behind you? I know the one on top because I have that yarn from Lion Brand but what about the chunky yarn?

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

I think it’s discontinued from hobby lobby a few years back. Ironically I got it at that big sale I mentioned in the video lol. It’s soft and sleek chunky.

[@a.leehilliard4716]

It is truly sad what knitting and crocheting and crafting has turned into. Watching videos where the crafter has been gifted yarn by companies, creators or stores. Many of them are extremely wealthy and pretend otherwise. Many of them own successful family businesses in Canada, are wealthy, have a YT channel and hand dying company. They then sit on their channel and chastise designers that offer free patterns all while offering $6000 and up international cruises where they cruise free. The insanity is out of control!

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

That is crazy!!! 💯

[@Brandyalla]

I store my yarn in an old dresser. If it's full, no yarn can be purchased. Also, I buy yarn for specific projects (or kits) rather than just a bunch of random skeins

[@sidepai]

I will say for myself, I've never really had a stash as it tends to overwhelm me just seeing the giant stashes my family members have. I tend to buy as need for my projects. Anything leftover gets used for stash busting projects once I've collected enough. I'm also limited in what kinds of yarn I can use due to overly sensative skin and allergies lol. I AM a bit worried as its the holiday season, and I asked for yarn for christmas lol. I know my family know of my allergies/sensativities, so we shall see what kind of stash I'll have going into the new year lol.

[@tonilynnp]

As someone who has, over time, acquired a large yarn stash (over quite a few years and almost exclusively from clearance sales), I can understand how some of these things could be an issue. That being said, I have a large spare bedroom that is dedicated to my computer and crafts so storage isn't really a problem for me. As for organization, I finally broke down and put all of my yarn into Ravelry and reorganized it as I went. It was a game changer! I can simply check Ravelry when I need yarn for a project, so I'm basically shopping my own stash. I very rarely have to buy yarn now. I'm less "frantic" about getting the yarn sales now, but I do still try to drop in when I can. I crochet for pleasure, and as a small side hustle. I'm very comfortable with my level of "overconsumption", but everyone is different. Forget what others say; it's only and issue if YOU think it's an issue!

[@manycoloredshiny]

I went to Rhinebeck Sheep and Wool in 2018... I'm STILL good for yarn. (I am also quite a slow knitter.)

[@funniful]

“…Way too much of something…” I feel attacked! Lol 😆

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

😂😂😂

[@ShaneyElderberry]

I noticed the hoarding side during my learning process. Decided it would be better for me to order excellent quality natural fibers in earthy colors and small amounts, rather than anything currently trendy in large hauls. I’m steadily using everything, but best of all, the projects look and feel great. Definitely agree about the thinner yarns - usually work with materials between fingering and DK weights.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

It sounds like you e got a great perspective on it! Yeah, it really seems like that learning process is what gets us!

[@Cookies-i2f]

The shipping and exchange from the US to Canada is crippling now.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

😬

[@deborahm4484]

Great video Shannon I have to admit I'm addicted to yarn I have two stores nearby one is a budget store so I always buy a lot.thing is I've nowhere to store it all so it's all over my room in bags ugh.one positive thing is I crochet for two charities so it is used.its just I get a buzz when I buy yarn.i will try in new year to use up all the yarn.thank you Shannon for addressing this.💝💝💝

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

You’re welcome! It sounds like you’ve got a good handle on it!

[@Pheebs77]

I'm in the UK and only buy yarn during sales. Hobbii is lethal as they always have sales! I make scarves with an Addi machine and at one point had ridiculous amounts of yarn, which I've since knitted into scarves. I've narrowed it down now to the best types of yarn for my scarves and have to ignore everything else or I'll be bankrupt!

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

That’s awesome, it sounds like you’ve got it figured out!

[@emilypeterson1133]

I don't agree with your stance, but if it works for you then so be it. I think buying exactly what you need when you need it is the best route. When I did impulse buying, I had so much but didn't know what I had and could never use it. Everyone has their own strategy.

[@amberrichards2778]

I get most of my yarn from my friends for free. Beggars can't be choosers!! I'm just happy to have something to learn with. I've gotten some really nice yarn from them, so grateful for my friends

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

I think that's amazing!!!

[@allthingsvalerie]

I think most crocheters have fallen into the trap of buying too much yarn. I know I did. A few weeks ago I gifted a lot of yarn to some friends because I knew I would never use it. I’m not as interested in the yarn from a big box store anymore. I want the hand dyed hanks and all those yummy natural fibers.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Yeah I totally get that and I’m right there with you!

[@LyraStitchery]

Yes I have so much worsted (4 weight yarn) in acrylic because I got FOMO to amigurumi and well I don't like making amigurumi. Well I do but I don't know what to do with it when I am done making it and I am not interested in trying to sell. 😅 I guess I can practice my knitting with it.

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

I just don’t like amigurumi either…..for a while I felt like I should because it felt like everyone else did lol!! 😂

[@jolenelarson469]

I'm getting better about buying with a purpose instead of buying because it's on sale. (Last year, I even had a cart full of Hobby Lobby clearance yarn and gradually put it ALL BACK, as I analyzed what each yarn could, or could not, be used for!) This year I also gave away two garbage bags full of yarn that either I don't like to work with or that I don't have enough of to make a project. My craft nook is getting better but still not to where I want it to be. I need to part with another bag or two. On to 2025 and being more mindful.

[@delladearest2511]

When does HL have their clearance sales?

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

That’s so awesome! That takes a lot of restraint to put same yarn back!!!

[@joannunemaker6332]

I love Hobby Lobby yarn sales. But, I am lucky. I live near one so I don't have to load up. It's different with you. You have to travel much further. That could make one buy much more yarn.😊❤

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Yeah I agree, if I lived closer to yarn I probably wouldn’t have stocked up so much!

[@Daschundmom]

Thank you😊

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

You're very welcome! ☺️

[@LyraStitchery]

I would totally watch a spinning video. 😊

[@LynneRedick-su1ji]

Good, thoughtful info. Is your other job being a mental health therapist? 😊

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Thanks Lynne! No, but does years of being in therapy count? 😅

[@LynneRedick-su1ji]

@ Yes it does 😂

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Good! 😊

[@karenbailey3493]

Excellent topic and conversation. I have completely over consumed over the last year or two. In the yarn arena. I am hoping to live long enough to use it all………..not even joking 🫢

[@fvidder2210]

There's a reason for the acronym SABLE! (Stash acquired beyond life expectancy)

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Don’t be hard on yourself! Just enjoy using it!

[@saucywench5152]

I am a hand spinner ❤ I also dye wool . I would recommend you start dying with food coloring first. Also I use a crock pot for dyeing. A good resource is Chem Knits a KZbin channel. Yes, it is easy to over consume fibers. 😂

[@ashleyosuna7856]

See over consuming yarn has become a non existent problem for me because I’ve become a bit of a yarn snob and will only buy nice quality 100% natural fibers which I couldn’t afford to spend on constantly even if I wanted to 💀 long story short become a yarn snob and in the long term it may end up actually saving you money

[@alexandriabrooks2544]

Yes!!!

[@catholicfemininity2126]

Thanks for the vid, ys it can e a problem if you lack space. mm hmm

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

It really can!

[@Cookies-i2f]

I didn't know watching yarn haul was a thing. 🇨🇦

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

Yep!

[@charlottebruce6841]

I knew I needed three so I bought ten! LOL -

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

😂

[@brithaelfic8975]

Blankets

[@panchoandthemule]

Whose husband who doesn’t like the yarn stash put this creator up to this video?

[@Mommymademecrochet]

Empty nester? Girl you’re like 30 😱😱

[@ShannonTalksYarn]

20 years ago lol!