You Don't Need More Yarn 😱

Are you really using that yarn-or just collecting it?
If you’re swimming in skeins you forgot you bought, like I am, and if that yarn mountain feels more like a burden than a joy, it’s time to get real about whether a massive stash is actually holding you back.
I argue, that too much yarn drains your creative energy, strain your budget, and can even keep you from starting new projects. I’m spilling my tea about stash-building mistakes, the pitfalls of compulsive buying, and how I’m working to find balance-and maybe you’ll find some helpful tips, too!
Here’s what I’m diving into:
🧶 Why a big yarn stash can sometimes bring more stress than satisfaction.
🧶 My personal challenges with yarn hoarding and what I’m doing to change it.
🧶 A plan for creating a smaller, purposeful stash that keeps creativity flowing.
👉🏼 Drop a comment and tell me about your own stash-do you love it or feel overwhelmed by it?
Trailblaze Beanie pattern: www.ravelry.co...
Where to find me:
Ravelry: www.ravelry.co...
Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/mono...
Instagram:
@baloghenikoe / baloghenikoe

[@samanthaaxelson7759]

It's so refreshing to have a knitting podcaster actually give their honest opinions without worrying about upsetting anyone ❤ Keep being you 👏👏👏

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you! I do worry and feel the fear, but do it anyway! 😊💕

[@ReneeChristopher]

Agreed.👍🏽

[@shaunastitches]

You captured so many of my feelings about my own stash, and reasons I bought yarn along the way. I love my stash but I definitely don't need more yarn. But, when I do buy yarn it brings me so much joy. It's such a conundrum between not needing more but wanting more and the short-lived joy of it arriving in the mail. It does bring joy again when I get around to using it. In a perfect world I'd just buy for each project as I'm ready to make it.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you, I'm so glad my thoughts resonated with you! 😊💕 I completely understand the pull to buy new yarn-it really does feel like it's calling your name sometimes. And waiting for yarn to arrive in the mail? I’m the same, constantly refreshing the tracking info! 😱 Like you said, the joy can be short-lived, but it usually comes back when you finally cast on and create something with it. I’m also hoping to find more balance in the future-making sure yarn doesn’t sit too long in my stash, because sometimes it does lose that initial excitement. Here’s to finding that happy medium!

[@timelessmemories5150]

love the wallpaper behind you it is beautiful

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you! 😊 Love it too!💕

[@suzyburke]

You are so right on about a stash not always having what you need for a certain project. It drives me crazy. I think it might be better for me to only buy what I need for specific projects to be knit right away and work through my stash and not to add to it. I’m done saving my precious collection, it deserves to be used! I really liked your colorwork hat and cowl set. Your color selection is beautiful. I would love to test for you. If not I will hope you release the patterns soon so I could purchase them.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you for the lovely comment! 💕 I’m so happy you liked my Trailblaze hat and cowl. The hat pattern is already available on Ravelry, but if you want both as a set, just wait a few weeks until the cowl is out too. About the stash… I tried at one point what you mentioned-getting yarn specifically for a project I’ll start immediately, and it works most of the time! I also think it's a great idea to use all the precious yarn 'before the moths get to them.' We only live once, so why not enjoy all the lovely yarn as finished items? Of course, if you’re into just collecting yarn, that’s a different thing. I do hope we all find a balance with our stashes. ☺️

[@Turboterrorturkey]

My stash definitely stresses me out- I don't think I buy the same way some people do but all projects leave scraps, especially when you like colourwork, and I also have too many wips. I'm trying hard to work my way through my pieces so I can be less stressed and work on one thing at a time, and it's nice to have inspiration and encouragement.

[@themonogamousknitter]

ndeed, stash can sometimes be a stress factor in an otherwise comfy hobby. I haven’t come up with a solid plan for using up leftovers yet, though I find sock yarn a bit easier to incorporate into designs, even the tiny bits. For me, working on just a few projects at a time helps take away the stress. I know it’s not for everyone, but I think it’s worth trying! I’m so happy to hear that you’ve found me inspirational. 🥰

[@angiej9414]

the title of this video is a mantra I need to repeat daily.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Me too! 💕😊

[@ruthdennisKnits]

I have been working on “ scrappy” projects in knit and crochet. My stash is a lot of what you stated… not the correct weight,size,col,or etc. I have been doing this for 4 or more years. I’ve donated a lot of blankets. In between the scrap projects I’ve made myself socks and cardigans. So yes I keep purchasing yarn 🧶

[@themonogamousknitter]

I think 'scrappy' projects are such a creative way to use up all kinds of yarn! Balancing those with making socks and cardigans for yourself sounds like the perfect approach. And yes, sometimes we just need new yarn. 😊💕

[@carolhudak3173]

It is bold to take a different view from the many voices out here. It shows conviction in your opinion. We do need to hear the many voices.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Agreed and thank you! 😊💕

[@ThePattiw]

I am loving your videos . I so appreciate the honestly and your humour too. I have a yarn stash because I love wool! I am a knitter but started purchasing yarn because I fell in love with it. Anyway, I have been trying hard not to purchase and knit down the stash. it does become too much after a while. I think it is different for a designer though, because you want to create something with yarn that is available for people who purchase your designs. Hope you had some wonderful dips in the sea.

[@vinalini]

Thank you for voicing my thoughts regarding my stash. I don’t think I can ever get through my stash. It sometimes brings me down. Thanks for all your tips. Keep being honest. It’s refreshing.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you! 😊 I understand completely. 💕I think that there is a silver lining, and it starts with acknowledging that we might have a problem.

[@falconmosshandcrafted1865]

I do like the idea of “you don’t need for more yarn” I too woked at a store and designed previously I have since stopped both, but the stash is definitely there. I make things and give them away of the yarn that’s I don’t particularly like the color or feel or make up. I also think here in Americas (I’m indigenous) the over abundance of Superwash and fast fashion industry that’s pattern making and yarn dying has become is so far so far removed from actual sheep/breeds history or heritage I make heirloom stuff for my kids (18/21) and then things that’s will last with what I do have that was a sweater quantity (but sizing as in human bodies change so I also am well versed in frogging and remaking … a lot of people her don’t do that either I have enjoyed your podcasts so far so thank you for sharing your perspective and here’s to making on your own terms 💚

[@themonogamousknitter]

I'm so glad you like my podcast! 💕 Making heirloom pieces for your kids is such a beautiful way to honor tradition and longevity. ❤ I love how you embrace the process of frogging and remaking. It’s definitely not something everyone is comfortable with, and I’ll admit, I try to avoid it as much as I can, but if something doesn’t work, I have no trouble unraveling an entire sweater. I’ve actually learned so much from those mistakes. I didn’t realize the impact of Superwash in the Americas. Here in Finland, it’s still commonly available in sock yarn, mostly hand-dyed, but I think we’re moving away from it as well. I do understand that Superwash is a great option for some, especially for machine washability. Personally, I love working with more rustic yarns, and there are breed-specific yarns that I’m really excited to try! Happy knitting! 😊

[@milliebenson2163]

Just found your podcast. I usually skip chatty podcasts but your authenticity really comes across. I'll definitely binge watch your previous vids.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you! 😊 I hope you'll find something more you like. 💕

[@denisecruz228]

Oh yes do! My grandson pointed out that I still have room for more so we're going shopping on black Friday! Yipee!

[@themonogamousknitter]

😅

[@Lilushaaakash]

"I can't believe I have at least three sweater quantities of yarn in the beige color. I hate beige." I love you for this!

[@themonogamousknitter]

🥰Thank you!

[@Earthwise001]

IHi Annika, I am glad I found you. I really enjoyed your STASH talk. I am starting my own padcast and one of my January topics is my stash. I would love to see a picture of your stash. Yyour new cowl looks like something I might buy- ie not too simple. And some pics of ice swimming would also be fun.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Congratulations on starting your own podcast-that’s such an exciting journey! I understand the intrigue about seeing my stash, but I don’t think I’ll ever share it online. I’ll be keeping this channel more or less focused on knitting, but if you’re curious about ice swimming or other things I’m up to, you can find more over on Instagram. Thanks again for reaching out, and best of luck with your podcast! 🎉

[@aino_s]

"I will literally be the old woman who lived in her shoes" or in her yarns :D

[@themonogamousknitter]

Indeed, we will be comfortable and warm too. 😅

[@NNKVSSN]

First time I watched your video after it was recommended in my youtube feed. Really enjoyed it! Hope you get to enjoy snowboarding soon, I am still in the "it is very difficult" phase with it and may remain there forever (happy to say my knitting is already some time at a comfortable level :))

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you so much for watching and for the kind words about the video! 😊 I completely relate to the 'snowboarding is very difficult' phase. I’ll probably always remember that when I first started out, someone told me that riding straight is actually the hardest part-I couldn’t believe it at the time, but it turns out to be so true! 😅 I hope to share some small tips in the future on how to make it easier (even though this is mostly a knitting vlog). I love that your knitting is already at a comfortable place! 💕🧶 Keep at it, and I hope you continue to find joy in both hobbies, even when they have their challenges.

[@YarnAndy]

The hat and cowl in the new yarn came out very cute! Glad you wrote that one up. Just keep at it, it takes time to build an audience. Do you have an email list? If not, set it up and put the link in the descriptions of your videos. I can recommend Mailerlite, it's user friendly and free up to 1000 subscribers. About the tubular cast on/bind off, I haven't yet tried either. But when it comes to a technique that takes a lot of words to explain, but only a few movements to show, I tend to film a video tutorial and link that (in crochet/Tunisian crochet). Folks can search common techniques, you don't need to explain them in words in your patterns. If you invent something new, then sure, go ahead and write it all out.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you! 😊 I think so too! I don’t have an email list yet, though I’ve been considering it for the past three years. 😅 I’ve used Mailchimp for work before, so I’ll check out both that option and the one you suggested. Looking up special techniques online for patterns is definitely possible, but I still wonder if it should be included in the pattern itself, just in case (maybe I’m overthinking it or over-delivering...). I’ve been considering addressing this in a future episode, and I’d love to know if others find it an issue. I like to think those instructions are there in case the internet goes down-at least you'd still be able to make the project! But yes, filming a short tutorial myself could be a great idea, and it would help drive traffic to my channel as well.

[@debbibamfield6656]

I completely agree with you thoughts on words and their meanings. What is a classic style for one group may not be for another. When you said classic style my mind went to the same line as yours but for others it may be baggy shapeless clothing. You cowl and hat pattern is stunning. Can you please add me to your test knit group. I would be thrilled and honored to test knit for you.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you! 😊 I don’t have a designated test knit group-it's really based on first come, first served-but I’ll definitely keep you in mind once the cowl is up for test knitting. Hopefully, that will be soon! 💕

[@Kristan863]

I agree with your definition of classic knits 😊. Enjoyed hearing your thoughts 👍🏻

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you! 😊💕

[@annapatterson1896]

PS - I love your wallpaper and the sweater you are wearing. Best wishes for the holidays and new year!

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you! The same to you too! 😊💕

[@theminimalknitter]

Leftover yarn is what makes me nuts! I have made so many scrappy blankets and I just started another one. My stash isn’t large by any means…I have about a dozen skeins of sock yarn which will become socks, leftover yarn on a cone (enough for a second sweater), cotton yarn for potholders, and all the scraps. I buy my sweater quantities when I’m ready to cast on so it’s the pattern and yarn I want. If you need a tester for your cowl I’m willing and able.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Oh, I really admire your yarn stash-it sounds so thoughtfully curated! 🤩 Thank you so much for offering to test the cowl-I’ll definitely keep you in mind when the time comes! 🧶💕

[@ilmatarkarvajalka3404]

both the hat and the cowl look amazing! For me, I do not mind doing tubular cast on/cast off at all, I actually like the way it looks and I love how stretchy it is. For the cast off in particular it becomes easy after you did it a couple of times, since you can memorize the rhythm. I also note down which stitch I left off if I have to take a break while doing it which helps a lot imo. The cast on is more tricky I think, mostly because I have a tendency of rotating the stitches without noticing or because I miscount, so counting a large number of stitches becomes super tedious... And of course you also can't really take a break while doing it or the setup rows since it is a bit fragile to put down in my experience... I still do it though, it's my preferred cast on (apart from maybe old Norwegian twisted?) because of the stretch and the beautiful edge it creates^^ just takes a bit of focus I guess :D

[@themonogamousknitter]

Oh, I can relate to all of this. The cast off is not really easy, since I memorized the sequence, but the cast on... It is always "fun" to notice that you made a mistake in the cast on and have 2 purl after one another in a 250 st cast on.., or something similar. 😅 Yes, it should be all done in one go, otherwise it might get messy. Sometimes I omit the setup rows, but usually they are worth it. I haven't used Old Norwegian in ages, maybe I should try that soon. 😊

[@emilykatemadethis]

I very much relate to everything you're saying 🤣 this week I've been struggling with being overwhelmed by how I have so many clothes and so much yarn in my stash and yet never the right yarn for the "gap" I want to fill in my very much full wardrobe. I have enough yarn and even yarn matched to patterns that I still want to make and yet.... It's not what I want to knit. I'm having to have a lot of stern conversations with myself this week about my behaviour 🤣 And the choice thing you talk about... It's amazing how much I know this and agree with it and yet I still look up and save more patterns in my favourites to make even though I have enough for decades. And will I ever need 50 hats? No! I'm going to have to start a system of once there are 15 of something I need to let something go 😅 And the beige thing cracked me up... I just made a video actually talking about the same issue... I hate beige... Why do I have a jumper quantity of beige 🤣 Subscribed 😊

[@themonogamousknitter]

I feel you! 🤗 It’s so easy to get overwhelmed with all the yarn and clothes, and yet somehow still feel like there’s always something missing. That said, you might just need 50 hats! I know I have at least 15 and just cast on another. 😅 Once I started designing, I thankfully lost the urge to knit other people’s patterns, so that cleared up some space (literally and mentally). I also have a tiny closet, so I’ve been curating my clothes and maybe moving towards a minimalist wardrobe. (Of course, I have tons of handknit sweaters, but who’s counting those? 😏😄) Thank you for subscribing! I think we’ll tackle the beige situation eventually! 💪 I'll go over and check your video! 💕

[@selfishknitter]

You are absolutely correct - I do not! Tubular cast on and bind off were worthwhile to learn, in my opinion. They seemed fiddly until I got the hang of them, but I really think it makes a clean edge on ribbing. First time viewer and now a subscriber 🎉

[@themonogamousknitter]

😄 Indeed, few people truly need more yarn... Tubular cast-on and bind-off are definitely those techniques that are worth the effort if you like the look, which I do. Like you said, once you get the hang of them, they’re pretty easy! 😊 Thank you so much for subscribing! 🎉

[@annapatterson1896]

The struggle is real. However, I believe the key to purchasing yarn and enjoying your accumulated yarn stash and knitting patterns is knowing yourself quite well, e.g., your personal preferences, your personal style, your lifestyle, your local weather, and your measurements. Revisiting these points every so often, and having made the decision to not gift knit, keeps me focused and discourages random impulsive purchases. My knitting library is comprised of stitch dictionaries, technique books, and classic garment & accessory patterns that are easily modified to be more "on trend" if I want to go that route. I grew up on a sheep farm, so I love and appreciate wooly wool and other natural fibers in natural colors, including various shades of gray, brown, cream and the ubiquitous beige. I have brighter colors as well in 100% wool. My stash of hand-dyed superwash yarn is small (currently 6 skeins) and is designated for socks. As a result of this careful curating, I enjoy every skein in my stash, as well as my knitting books, and the creative possibilities they represent.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment! 💕 Happy to hear that a working stash is possible to achieve. 😊 I think you’re right that knowing my personal preferences makes a big difference. I decided a long time ago not to gift knit, except for wool socks for my tiny niece. I’ve also stopped buying knitting books unless they focus on design, stitch dictionaries, or techniques. I know I love woolly wools, but I still occasionally get influenced into buying the latest "it yarn," as if it would make me more on trend! 😅 I also tend to avoid superwash yarns unless they’re for socks, like in your case. That said, I’ve started using a color board to ensure the yarns I buy fit my palette. Like you mentioned, curating a yarn stash is a great way to go, and I’m working toward that. The older I get, the less I feel pressured to do (or buy) what’s expected of me.

[@jackieholifield5575]

I used to work in a yarn shop also, so I know what you are talking about. I bought way to much yarn while I was working there. So far I have knitted only one thing using any of that yarn. I agree with your thoughts about classic. It is really a lot about what you grew up with I think. In the late 60's, when I was a teenager, where I lived we were wearing extra big (baggie) shirts. Some are calling that classic but I think of the classics in the same way you do. I have enjoyed this episode.

[@themonogamousknitter]

I'm glad you enjoyed this episode! 💕Indeed, working in a yarn shop can really influence one's stash-both in good and bad ways. I really appreciated your comment about what you grew up with, as it made me think. Unlike the big shoulder pads and trends of the 1980s, I grew up with classic, tailored designs. In Eastern Europe, it was difficult to find clothes in shops, so some of my clothes were made by a seamstress to fit me perfectly. It might sound costly, but we didn’t have much, so what we had was made to last. I’m guessing that still influences my choices today.

[@mscatherinemccoy]

Thank you for this. My stash has been weighing heavily on my mind (as I buy more yarn). I love it all.... The colours, the feel of the fiber, the possibilities. Yesterday I received two skeins of mohair valued at $75 that got put in the cupboard. It is beautiful though and I know I will use it 😂. You describe the struggle so well. 😊

[@themonogamousknitter]

You're welcome! 😊 I think having a stash isn’t inherently good or bad-it really depends on how it works for you. I know some people who genuinely love collecting yarn, maybe even more than knitting it. For me, the trouble starts when the stash stops working for me, and instead, I find myself working for it-or, as you said, “it weighs heavily on my mind.” I totally understand the allure of beautiful yarn, no matter the price. Oh, how many times I've done that! 😅 That said, I’m sure your mohair is absolutely gorgeous, and when the time is right, it’ll be such a joy to knit with! 🤩 I hope my ramblings help with the struggle! 💕

[@alovelyyarn]

This was a great perspective on stash and yarn acquisition. I related to your viewpoint quite a bit. Thank you for sharing!

[@themonogamousknitter]

You are welcome! 💕

[@ajatuksianni]

Ai vitsit, odotan innolla sun videoita! Taas niin mielenkiintoinen aihe 🔥🔥

[@themonogamousknitter]

Kiitos! 😍😊💕

[@nadiarogo4511]

I saw a sweater in a store with a diagonal line across its body and on one side of the diagonal line there was regular traditionally looking colorwork, and on the other side of the line, there was the same colorwork but floats side out (inside out). It looked so nice and refreshing! I'd knit that. I personally don't like tubular cast on/off just because of how it looks: it looks cut off, instead of neatly finished. I prefer the regular cast on/off because it creates a neat braid at the edge which looks properly finished to me :)

[@themonogamousknitter]

Oh, that’s such a wonderful idea-to show both the right side and wrong side of the colorwork on the same sweater! It really adds texture and contrast; I might have to borrow that idea myself someday! 😅 The tubular cast-on/off can definitely work in certain cases, but I see what you mean about it looking a bit cut off. I think I like most of all the simple long tail cast on, but it's also fun to use different ones. 😊

[@nadiarogo4511]

@themonogamousknitter if you design it I'll definitely buy and knit it!! :D

[@themonogamousknitter]

@@nadiarogo4511 Awesome! ❤☺

[@jetv1471]

My only issue with tubular cast on or bind off is that I can’t stop while doing it … I can’t read the stitches to get started again if I stop or pause part way 😢 I absolutely love the hat and cowl and will watch for the pattern !

[@themonogamousknitter]

I understand the frustration with the Tubular Cast On/Cast Off. I had the same issue of not knowing what to do next, if I stopped. I really hope I get around to film a short tutorial. I noticed, that once you understand the sequence, it is a piece of cake. You will always know what to do next. Thank you for liking my designs. 💕😊

[@GATeacherfriend]

Many of us have too much stash. You could knit the beige yarn into something for your mother. If you sell it at a discount, you'll recoup some of your investment and clear your space. You can just give it away and feel great that yarn is going to a grateful knitter and you have less clutter. Holding on to what you dislike and dont want just because you spent money is not an upgrade. The money is spent and isn't coming back. I gave a small amount of yarn away last year and need to destash some polyester someone gave me. Pretty yarn but I'll never use it.😮

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you for your comment! 😊 Overconsumption is definitely something we see in the knitting (and crafting) community also. I understand your point, though there’s also a psychological side to it-like loss aversion and the sunk cost fallacy-that makes it tricky to let go of things we’ve already invested in. Right now, I’m focusing on making better decisions for the present and the future. Good luck with your destash-it sounds like you’re taking a thoughtful approach to your stash! 💕

[@toniprutch8956]

You described my feelings about stash perfectly. Yet, I keep buying yarn.

[@themonogamousknitter]

I get it, and I’m not saying don’t buy yarn at all, just that a more reasonable approach might help. Hopefully, with time, we’ll all find a balance that works. 😊

[@Patriciacoutain]

Love yr wall paper and all the stuff!!!! New to me. Glad you came up on my feed!

[@themonogamousknitter]

Yay! Thank you so much! 🤩💕

[@Woolyfluff_craftystuff]

I try really hard not to stress about my yarn stash or all the money I spent. I earn my own money and like to treat myself with yarn and for me that's fine. I also get a lot of engoyment giving yarn away if I don't like it anymore. I made my peace with it mostly. It's going to a nice new home and gives joy to someone else 😊 Technically I just lose money, but there's so much more involved. I love planing what I could knit with all my yarn, I love browsing through yarn and patterns, I love having nice yarn around me and rearranging it. Also love the possibilities for spontaneous emergency cast ons 😅 My yarn stash is limited due to space and that's good for sure. If I want to buy more than I use I need to get rid of something first.

[@themonogamousknitter]

It’s wonderful that you’ve found a balance that works for you! 💕 I love how you’ve embraced what brings you joy and found ways to handle the parts that don’t, like donating yarn forward. And oh, the spontaneous emergency cast-on-I totally get it! 😅 The idea of using up or letting go of something before adding more is such a smart approach. 😊

[@suebknitter]

The title of your videocast drew me in. I completely understand your dilemma. I am currently trying to use only stash yarn. Some of my stash is 20 years old! Some of it I have given to charity. I have just kept what I really like. I will not live long enough to knit it all! Classics are any garment that can be worn for any number of years and not look dated. I agree that Audrey Hepburn was like that. Boxy was popular in the 80s also but no fitted sleeves. Current boxy has a more fitted sleeve. Boxy does not look well on everyone. Definitely not me! I use tubular cast on frequently but have not mastered the bind off yet.I have enjoyed your thoughts today.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you! 😊 It is awesome that you've managed to keep what you like-it makes the stash more intentional. Indeed, I will not have the time to knit with all the things in my stash nor, for example, read all the books that I'd like. You described the classic style so well; I find sometimes people get confused, but it’s rather simple. Timeless designs have a way of looking effortless and elegant no matter the decade, which is what makes them so special.

[@skyartsmanagement]

Perhaps you could consider dyeing the beige yarn. PS. I don't like beige either!

[@themonogamousknitter]

Indeed, I did consider that. It would work if I would never use it for designing. 😊 Probably I'll donate it or sell it. Weird enough, there are tons of people who do like beige.

[@kathrynbythelake9638]

I ended up donating a huge tote of yarn to a church my counselor belongs to, I still have too much in stash but it is yarn I can see myself using eventually.

[@themonogamousknitter]

😊 It’s great that you were able to pass yarn on to a good cause. It sounds like you now have a stash that’s actually working for you!

[@mommatina8295]

I bought some silk yarn, it was from recycled saris, (the Indian shawl thing.) It was interesting and it was crazy to knit with it, but I made something that I like. I learned that I like the colors but also, pull from the outside and only do it once. (The silk got so thin sometimes.) I do have a stash I'm working through, and I have a plan. I started it this year; I'm making blankets to sell. I have a pattern I like so I went through my yarn and made yarn groups that look good together. Most of them are two colors and from fade from one color to the next. It is a way to reduce my stash. I understand adding to your stash, sometimes it's just trying something new.

[@themonogamousknitter]

I’m glad to hear about your plan-blankets seem like an awesome way to go! 😊 Way back when, I tried something similar with silk yarn produced from saris. I was too curious to pass it up! I vaguely remember it wasn’t quite my cup of tea, though. That said, it’s definitely fun to add something new and untested to the stash every now and then. In my case, though, I think I need to set some limits! 😅

[@katyagrenness7643]

Love this episode. It is The first time i’ve visited your channel, and I liked what I saw 😊. I enjoyed your reflections about yarn stash! I both love and hate my stash. It is too big, and I have somw delicious yarns. But, still, I keep buying new yarn for my projects. The hat and cowl Are very nice. How Donau sign up for testknit?

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 I’m so glad you enjoyed the episode and could relate to the reflections on yarn stash-it’s definitely a love-hate relationship for so many of us! Having scrumptious yarns is such a joy, but the temptation of new projects always seems to win, doesn’t it? I'm so happy you found me on Instagram as well and that you'll be test knitting the cowl. 💕

[@Patriciacoutain]

What’s yr sweater design also? Love it.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Oh, thank you! 💕 I always forget to mention what I’m wearing. 🙈 This one is just a colorwork sweater from my own imaginings-there’s no pattern for it, and I’m not sure there ever will be.

[@knittingthestash]

loving your videos. The new hat/cowl is great. I really enjoyed knitting your Valtavaara Hat--in Finnish and Estonian wools, no less. . . . both pulled from my stash. Ack! It was a singular moment. Otherwise, I experience my stash very much as you describe :)

[@themonogamousknitter]

I’m so happy to hear that you’re enjoying the videos and that you’ve been knitting the hat! Using yarn from your stash-how wonderful! 🥰 I’m so glad you can relate to my stash musings. 😄💕

[@libbywhitney6846]

like that sweater. great color combo

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you! ☺️

[@margaretsparksrittenhouse8787]

I have stopped buying yarn, for any reason. I have to do the hard thing soon and sell half of the stash. Yarn is not my only collection either. I have also stopped collecting. The impulse is still there, but the higher mind must prevail. The space, the money, and the organizational ability is no longer there for me. I identify with everything you said.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you for sharing your perspective and journey! Letting go of a stash can be incredibly difficult-loss aversion is so real. But prioritizing a higher mind and finding peace is so important. I’m trying to get there too. Best of luck as you take on the process. 💕

[@koolkidangel18]

I do not like stash just to have it. My very small stash consists of 90% left over yarn from finished projects and 10% unused but there is a project assigned to it.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Sound like a very reasonable size stash! 😊

[@jayjaychappo]

Is the stitch design you are talking about when you turned the cowl inside out, the Roosimine Estonian inlay knitting style? I saw this recently on Aleks Byrd’s designs on Ravelry and am fascinated by it.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Not really, but that would be one way of doing it. What I have in mind is showing the colorwork inside out, like an entire sweater yoke. Then maybe knitting the rest of it in one color brioche. In roosimine, you don't usually do that. It is a bit like intarsia, but with the floats on the right side. Of course it can be done also in the round, like in Junko Okamoto's Bouquet Sweater. I hope you get to try the technique, it takes a bit of effort to stop trying to knit regular colorwork, or at least it took for me, but it's a fun technique.

[@chesun4579]

#1. Find a Mohair in a color that you like and blend it with the beige mohair to get a melange color that you like. #2. Find patterns that you like which can use the yarn that you have. Even if the pattern is from 2 years ago. Do sweater patterns really go out of style? or is it some of the "weird" and I must say "ugly" colors that makes you go "woffff"?

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you for your suggestions! 😊💕 I did try #1 with many of the yarns that are a bit of an "off" color, but I didn’t like the results. As for #2, I think I’d rather not design anything using yarns or colors I don’t really like anymore. No, they’re not ugly colors, but they’re just not for me. Of course, I could knit something from them and give it away, but after 30+ years of knitting other people’s patterns, I feel like I’m done with that for now. 😅

[@edinacole6382]

sigh, why is it that we never have the right yarn in our stash?? I bought some lovely green yarn on sale at 50% off for a colorwork sweater, intending to use up "leftover" yarn I already had for the colorwork. Unfortunately, it looks like one of the leftover yarns is not enough, so I have to buy another skein, which costs more than one skein of the sale yarn I purchased.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Honestly, I’m still searching for answers too! 😄 No matter how much yarn we stash, it always feels like we’re one skein short. I’m sure the finished sweater will be worth it, though! 💕😊

[@lifeoutnumbered]

But if you got the yarn at a discount even a small one just sell the yarn for the price you paid or a little less than what you paid and someone else who will love the yarn will get to use it at a deal and you will get most of your money back.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Indeed! I’m pretty sure that at some point, I’ll sell the yarn I don’t like or need-it’s a good way to pass it on to someone who will love it. And hopefully, I can avoid buying yarn like that in the future, discount or not! 😅

[@jilliankonig2759]

I always wonder why vloggers make so many beige items. I don't look good in beige, either. Do they choose beige because the texture shows up better in lighter colors? Or have people become afraid of committing to colors? How many beige sweaters does someone need? How does one choose what to wear when they have eight beige sweaters?

[@themonogamousknitter]

I still don’t have definitive answers! I’ve been looking into the history of beige and hope to make an episode about it soon. Beige does seem to feel like a “safe” choice for many people-neutral, versatile, and easy to style. These days, it’s also associated with luxury (even though that’s far from where it started). Of course, trends play a huge role, and beige doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. That said, eight beige sweaters does feel like a lot-even if the textures and designs vary! 😅 But hey, can I really judge-or can I? 🙈 I have the same issue with white or off-white/cream sweaters. I already have two and still want to make a third. So maybe white is my beige-send help! Looking around, it feels like many people stick to what they see as practical style. It’s often black with a lighter sweater or all-black outfits. Wearing vibrant colors seems so rare, which is such a shame! Especially now that color analysis has made such a big comeback (for better or worse)-it’s the perfect opportunity to embrace boldness and wear colors that truly suit us. 💕

[@lifeoutnumbered]

I like the idea of having the cowl and hat separate and then having a coupon code for buying both together at a discount. I don't think the patterns are to basic or simple to not be paid for patterns or have value.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you! 😊 I’m glad you like the idea of offering the cowl and hat separately with a discount for purchasing both. I really appreciate your perspective on the patterns’ value, too. It means a lot to hear that! 💕

[@susanbucklin3204]

I would try dying the beige yarn . I look at my stash and what I have then see what I can make with it as apos to finding a pattern then looking at my stash . I hope I'm making sense 😊🤪

[@themonogamousknitter]

Having the yarn first and then trying to come up with an idea to use it really does have a lot of possibilities. That’s an essential part of designing too. It is making sense. 😊 That said, in my case, having too much yarn for that same purpose kind of does the opposite. 😅😱

[@deeztube1]

I’ve struggled with all of these stash concerns just as you described them! I’m planning to work with what I have 90% of the time in 2025. I would say 100% but with me, that is quite unrealistic 😂

[@themonogamousknitter]

It truly seems I'm not the only one. 😅 I think having a percentage in mind of how much to use from stash in mind helps. I might give that a try too. Thank you for the inspiration! 💕

[@annikak.837]

Klassinen neule on kyl vaikea käsite. Classic sweater googlehaku antaa yksivärisiä twinsettejä ja v-aukkoisia hyvin istuvia neuleita. Mietin, onko timeless kuitenkin parempi käsite kuin classic, mutta timeless-haulla tulee palmikko- ja raitaneuleita. Ehkä väljät yksinkertaiset neuleet on ihan vaan "basic everyday sweaters"? :D Muoti on harvoin ajatonta ja klassista, aina vaate näyttää jos ei kulahtaneelta niin vähän vanhanaikaiselta/väärän tyyliseltä 10 vuoden kuluttua, tai sitten oma vaatekoko muuttuu..

[@themonogamousknitter]

"Klassinen neule" on ehkä vähän vaikeasti määriteltävä, mutta minusta tai minulle se tarkoittaa neuleita, joissa on jotain ajattoman yksinkertaista ja selkeää - esimerkiksi yksiväriset v-aukkoiset tai pyöreäaukkoiset villapaidat, hillityt palmikkoneuleet tai neutraalit värit, kuten harmaa, navy ja musta. Ehkä toisinaan myös fair isle -neule. Sellaisia malleja, jotka tuntuvat sopivan melkein mihin tahansa tilanteeseen. Myös materiaalivalinnalla on väliä, ja istuvuudella. Klassinen tyyli ei seuraa oikeastaan muotia vaan se on aina tyylikäs. Timeless tai siis ajaton on myös hyvä käsite, mutta jos olen oikein ymmärtänyt se vähän laajempi kuin klassinen - esimerkiksi raidat ja väljät mallit voisivat mennä paremmin sen alle. Ehkä lopulta klassisin neule on se, joka on suosikki vielä 10 vuoden päästä. 😉

[@chairenn]

Mahtava video! Itsellä on päässyt myös tämä lankavarasto vähän tursuamaan yli, enkä ole edes koskaan ollut lankakaupassa töissä 😅 Itsellä on ollut aikuisiällä vähän epätervettä kulutuskäyttäytymistä milloin minkäkin asian suhteen, ja langan kanssa saa olla kyllä tosi tarkkana. Joskus lanka on saattanut inspiroida koska muut ostavat sitä, tai koska joku siisti neuleohje on kirjoitettu Just Sille Langalle (vaikka ihan hyvin voisi käyttää mitä tahansa muuta samanvahvuista lankaa), tai koska se on niin erilaista kuin mikään muu näkemäni lanka... Tavallaan siis ihastun siihen lankaan itsessään niin paljon, ettei tule mietittyä järkevästi sille käyttötarkoitusta. Myös some pahentaa tätä hulluutta helposti..!

[@themonogamousknitter]

Kiitos, kiva että tykkäsit! 🤩 Langoissa ja neulomisessa on niin paljon kyse tunteesta ja siitä, miltä lanka tuntuu. Sitä välillä erehtyy ostamaan langan, koska se tuntuu kivalta, on kivan värinen tai on joku yksisarvisen pyllynkarvasta valmistettu uutuus... 😅😱 Yritän parantaa tapani, mutta silti välillä herään siihen, että olen ostanut samanlaista harmaata, valkoista tai mustaa lankaa samassa vahvuudessa kolmelta eri valmistajalta - ja ne kaikki ajaa ihan saman asian! 😅 Some on kyllä paha, ehkä siksi en jaa feedissä enää yhtään lankaostoa. 🥶

[@sleepydrJ]

Overdye the beige yarn and other yarns that don’t thrill you. Make it a color you want to wear.

[@themonogamousknitter]

While that would be a great idea for a knitter, from the knitwear design point of view, it does not work. Many people want to have the design in the exact colorway and yarn the designer has made it. I can't say I agree with this, there are just so many lovely colors and yarns out there.

[@helenlayley]

I like to let my yarn choose the next project (in most cases, l can be project led if inspired!) So in most cases l might pick up a garment quantity of yarn and then browse for a suitable pattern whilst finishing off previous projects. I do sometimes have lonely skeins that need 'friends' before they can become something. Some of those annoy me, some don't. Individual skeins of pretty hand-dyed yarn fall into this category and that is what l am likely to buy at a fair. I have some regular purchases - Systrene Grøne cotton or Järbo Raggi/Mini Raggi sock wool - where l will gradually build up the amount l need, for instance for a striped sweater. I cannot usually afford to buy a whole garment quantuty at one time.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you for sharing your process-it’s so interesting how everyone has their own way of approaching projects. Letting yarn guide your choices sounds like a creative way to keep things fresh. ☺️ The “lonely skeins” situation is so relatable-some just seem destined for greatness, while others take their time finding a purpose. I actually stopped buying lonely skeins of pretty hand-dyed yarn for that reason. But each to their own. 💕

[@rmfishy]

Started listening interested but you lost me at 'enough yarn for 2 decades'. Yeah I have a little stash, 3 drawers maybe. Not that level! Thats overkill

[@themonogamousknitter]

That's exactly what I said... 🤔

[@heidikrol5594]

Question are you willing to give yarn away? Or you can set up a little take some wool for free house like the little book houses in the USA I love your honesty!! We all have too much stuff. 🙃

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you for your great idea and reminder! 💕 Oh yes, as much as it sometimes hurts to give away my 'darlings,' I’ve been giving away yarn! 😊 There’s a group of elderly knitters and crocheters in a Red Cross-organized group, and I used to take yarn over to them. (Yes, I had a large stash even before working at a yarn store. 🥶) I should check if they’re still operational and donate what I no longer need or want.

[@Mcdademade123]

Wait two decades worth?! Please show us🤲🏾🙏🏾

[@themonogamousknitter]

😄 I think I'll skip that part. 😊💕😅

[@shebear9251]

second that! 😂

[@mindykannon4650]

I can totally relate. I am in the same situation! oops

[@themonogamousknitter]

Indeed, I'm positive I'm not alone. 😊💕

[@shi1355]

great background

[@themonogamousknitter]

Thank you! 💕

[@rjbrewer09]

😊

[@themonogamousknitter]

😊

[@paivipeony]

Toi on niin totta toi, että ei oo useinkaan varastossa sopivaa lankaa. Olenkin omalta osaltani luovuttanut tosta utopiasta jonkin aikaa sitten, jolloin järjestelin stashini taas kerran uudelleen, mutta nyt todella mulle toimivalla tavalla. Eli mietin, mitä lankaa haluan keräillä ja omistaa ja keksin jaottelut sen mukaan. Laitoin päällimmäiseksi kussakin laatikossa langat, jotka neulottuani kokoelmani arvo nousee silmissäni. Ja ihmeellistä, tämä toimii mulla. Olen neulonut pois lankoja, jotka eivät ole ihan napakymppejä keräilymielessä ja nyt aina kun menen stashille, moni laatikko on jo niin aah, ihanaa keräilykamaa! En enää myöskään osta lankaa, jota en halua keräillä. Ostaessa kysyn aina, haluanko omistaa langan, enkä haluanko neuloa siitä. Saan ostamisesta enemmän iloa kuin ennen enkä tunne enää samanlaista painetta neuloa heti ostamastani. Ostokseni on kalliimpia, mutta lankaa on vähemmän. Minulla ei ole tarvetta ostaa kaikkea mahdollista, koska keräilen vain tietynlaisten kategorioiden lankoja. Koen onnea kokoelmastani.

[@themonogamousknitter]

Ihana kuulla, että löysit itsellesi toimivan tavan hallita stashiä. Keräilynäkökulma ja langan omistaminen on yksi tapa lähestyä asiaa, ja aikaisemmin olen itsekin toiminut niin. Kun stashissa on lankoja, jotka tuottavat iloa, se vapauttaa olemaan luovempi. 😊 En tosiaan itsekään usko, että on olemassa täysin toimiva lankavarasto, mutta kuten itsesi kohdalla, sitä kohti voi pyrkiä. 💕

[@valeriea.gladstone6440]

nice content thanks but the background is so distrating!

[@themonogamousknitter]

The wallpaper is part of the charm here, so it’s staying put! But I appreciate the feedback.😊

[@nadja9331]

❤🌈🧶

[@soilepyhanniska1374]

Haa, kuulostaa erittäin tutulta tuo kaapit täynnään väärän väristä, väärän paksuista, väärä määrä jne. lankaa. Ja huomenna sitten messuille :)

[@themonogamousknitter]

Jepjep! 😅💕 Nähtäväksi jää paljonko lankaa (jota ei tarvitse) tuo kotiinsa messuilta tällä kertaa. 😄