Knitting woes

Other options when you run out of yarn

Welp, despite all the tips I wrote up in my last article about running out of yarn, last weekend I ran out of yarn for my project. It was handspun yarn too, so it's not like I could just call the store and ask for more. In the wake of this experience, I came up with a few other options for knitters who have (or are about to) run out of yarn.

1. Weep
It's okay. We understand. Whether they are tears of remorse, frustration, or simple woe at your fate in the cold and unfeeling universe, rest assured it is totally normal to weep over your knitting.

Here, have a soothing pat on the back. There there.

2. Beg
I was out of luck because I had spun up (not enough) yarn myself. But if you purchased your yarn somewhere, grab the ball band (if you still have it) and start scouring the world for more skeins. If the yarn has been discontinued, check Ravelry. If it is currently in production or has only recently discontinued, try contacting the store where you bought it, the yarn manufacturing company itself, and any knitting store you can find.

Don't forget to check with stores online - they will be happy to ship it to you.

3. Fake it
Act like you wanted contrasting colors at the sweater cuffs all along. Not one knitter in the world is going to disagree with you.

4. Bury it
Cram that project into a plastic bag and stuff it in the back of the closet, and vow never to speak of it again. This is a completely valid reaction to failure of any sort, by the way. No one will ever be the wiser.

If anyone ever asks after your project, simply fix them with a silent, steely gaze until they turn away, then gracefully change the subject.

Image courtesy Flickr/Peacock Modern