8 Things You Can Crochet with Three Skeins of Yarn

8 Things You Can Crochet with Three Skeins of Yarn

Do you have three skeins of yarn to hand? Perhaps they’re left over from another project. Perhaps you can’t remember exactly where they came from. Either way, you may well be wondering what you can crochet with just three skeins of yarn?! Fret not, there are numerous projects you can tackle with just three skeins, allowing you to make the most out of your stash and perhaps even try some new techniques and patterns along the way.

In this article, we’ll discuss eight different items that you could crochet with just three skeins of yarn. These projects vary in size, difficulty, and functionality. Many of them can be made without a particular pattern and just a small amount of basic crochet skills. However, for others, we have provided links to specific patterns that you can follow. There’s something here for everyone. So, grab those skeins, and get ready to discover some inspiring ideas to feed your creativity!

8 Crochet Projects Using Three Skeins of Yarn

1. Soft Baby Blanket

You can’t of course make a full-size throw with just three skeins of yarn. However, three skeins are enough to make a beautiful soft and gentle baby blanket. Baby blankets are the perfect gift for new parents or a lovely addition to your child’s nursery.

midnight ad

To create this cozy piece, select a soft yarn (acrylic DK or aran weight is perfect, but read this post for more pointers) and a simple stitch pattern. You could go for simple rows of half double or double crochet, creating stripes perhaps if you have more than one color. A granny stripe blanket or a large granny square make excellent options too.

Or why not try the mindful and attractive Cosy Stripe pattern?

crochet edges
The easy and mindful Cosy Stripe Pattern (available for FREE!) looks great in a single color or in a few colors.

The size of the blanket can be easily adjusted by increasing or decreasing the starting chain and working more or fewer rows. Read this article to find out more about the best sizes for a baby blanket.

2. Cozy Scarf

With three skeins of yarn, you can create a warm and stylish scarf. Choose your favorite color or colors to craft a unique accessory that complements your wardrobe. Pick a soft and comfortable yarn type for maximum comfort during colder months. To find out about the warmest yarns to use, read this article.

3. Chunky Hats

A chunky hat is a must-have accessory for colder weather and they make great quick gifts. Using three skeins of yarn, you can create a few stylish and warm hats with a fun texture. Choose an aran or bulky-weight yarn and a crochet hook appropriate for the yarn weight.

ribbed crochet beanies
Crochet beanies work up quickly and you can make a few with just a small amount of yarn.

You can find a simple free pattern for a ribbed beanie here.

4. Plush Pillow

Add a touch of homemade charm to your living space with a plush crochet pillow. Start by choosing a soft yarn that wears well (cotton is a good option but acrylic is nice for a bit of extra softness) and a simple stitch pattern. Then, crochet two square or rectangular panels and seam them together, stuffing the pillow with a cushion insert or polyfill before closing the seam. Pillows are a great weekend project for your home as they can be completed in just a couple of days.

tumbling stripes tapestry crochet cushion cover
This Tumbling Stripes cushion cover (FREE pattern!) uses just two colors and is made with tapestry crochet.

5. Stylish Bag

Combine practicality and style with a crocheted bag constructed from three skeins of yarn. Simple tote and market bags are really fun projects to try. Select a sturdy yarn that doesn’t stretch, like cotton. Opt for a stitch pattern that creates a tight fabric to provide more support for your belongings and prevent small objects from escaping. You can adjust the size, color, and strap length according to the quantify of yarn you have.

French Market crochet Bag
This French Market Bag (pattern available for FREE!) is great for summer days out to the beach or indeed popping to the market to pick up some fresh produce.

6. Trendy Ear Warmers

Keep your ears warm during chilly weather with a trendy pair of crochet ear warmers. With just three skeins of yarn, you can create a stretchy and comfortable accessory for yourself and a friend or two. Experiment with different stitch patterns and colors to personalize your ear warmers.

7. Lapghan

A lapghan is a smaller version of a blanket, perfect for keeping you warm while sitting or lounging. Choose a soft yarn and a pleasing stitch pattern to create this cozy project. A single large granny square can be a good idea for this project as you can simply keep crocheting until you’ve used up all your yarn!

8. Warm Shawl

A warm shawl makes a great accessory to any outfit and they can be used throughout the year. Why not have a go at this simply granny triangle design using one main color and another for the contrasting stripes?

Ashbury crochet granny shawl worn by model
The Ashbury Shawl (FREE pattern!) is a simple yet effective granny triangle pattern.

Choosing the Right Yarn

Before you crochet any of the projects mentioned in this article, make sure you’re choosing the right yarn for your work. In this section, we’ll go over three important factors to consider: yarn weight, yarn fiber, and yarn color.

Yarn Weight

Yarn weight refers to the thickness of the yarn, which affects the final appearance of your project and the required hook size. Different weights are suitable for different types of crochet projects. Here are some common yarn weights you might come across:

  • Fingering or 4-ply: lightweight and suitable for delicate projects like lace and socks
  • Sport: slightly thicker, great for lightweight garments and baby items
  • DK: a good medium-weight yarn for baby items and blankets
  • Worsted or Aran: slightly thicker medium weight, versatile and works well for a variety of projects like scarves and sweaters
  • Bulky: thick and ideal for warm, cozy projects like blankets and winter accessories

When choosing a yarn weight, consider whether you prefer a delicate, lightweight project or a plush, warm one.

Yarn Fiber

Fibers can greatly affect the yarn’s texture, appearance, and functionality. Here are some popular yarn fiber options:

Fiber TypeCharacteristics
AcrylicAffordable, easy to care for, and available in a wide range of colors. Can be washed in the machine.
CottonSoft, breathable, and suitable for summer garments and home accessories.
WoolWarm, water-resistant, and elastic, ideal for winter wear and blankets. Not always possible to machine-wash.
BambooSoft, silky, and eco-friendly, great for luxurious, drapey projects.

Consider the desired characteristics of your finished project, such as softness, warmth, and washability, when choosing a yarn fiber. Your choice of fiber will also impact the drape and stitch definition of your work, so experiment with different options to determine which suits your needs best.

Yarn Color

The yarn color you choose will greatly influence the final look of your project. Some factors to consider when selecting a color include:

  • Color preferences of the intended recipient
  • The season or occasion for which the item is being made
  • The décor or wardrobe of the person who will use the item
  • How the chosen color pairs with other colors in the project

Yarn color can also impact the visibility of your stitches, so choose carefully if you’re working on intricate patterns. Lighter colors generally make the stitches easier to see, while darker colors can sometimes make it more challenging.

Tips for Successful Projects

In this section, we will explore some key tips to ensure the success of your crochet creations.

Gauge Testing

Getting the right gauge is crucial to producing a well-fitting and accurate final product. It can also help to make sure you don’t run out of yarn before the end of your project.

Make sure to create a test swatch before starting your project. To do this, crochet a small square with the recommended stitch and hook size, then measure the number of stitches and rows in the specified dimensions, such as a 4-inch (or 10 x 10 cm) square.

  • Follow the pattern’s gauge suggestion.
  • Adjust the hook size to get the correct gauge.
  • Keep track of your gauge swatches for future reference.
ergonomic crochet hooks
Always check you are using the correct hook size for your yarn and tension.

Blocking and Finishing

Once your project is completed, think about finishing touches, such as weaving in ends and adding borders or edging, to ensure a polished result.

Blocking is another essential step in creating a professional-looking finished piece. It involves dampening the project, stretching or shaping it to the desired dimensions, and allowing it to dry, which evens out stitches and sets your work in place. When blocking, always remember to:

  • Select an appropriate blocking method (e.g. wet blocking, steam blocking or spray blocking) for the yarn material.
  • Use pins and a blocking mat to hold the project in place while it dries.

Read this article to learn exactly how to block your finished item.

8 Things You Can Crochet with Three Skeins of Yarn: Conclusion

In this article, we have explored a range of different creative projects you can make using just three skeins of yarn. Some of them have patterns but many you can have fun designing yourself with just a few basic crochet skills. The projects can be worn, used for the home, gifted to family and friends, or kept for yourself. Most of them can be worked up really quickly too. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up your hooks, gather your three skeins of yarn, and get crocheting!

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