I have a bad habit of hoarding yarn scraps. Sometimes I finish a project and have a small amount of yarn leftover that I decide to hang onto in case I can use it in the future (I never do). But the most difficult yarn to use up is the tiny little scraps left over after cutting and weaving in ends, or cutting off the cast on tail.

Recently, I made a striped knit crop top to give away as a gift. I had tons of loose ends and scraps left over after finishing the stripes. And it dawned on me – these scraps were perfect for gift bag tassels. I typically save brown bags to reuse as gift bags. It’s sustainable but looks a little boring. Yarn tassels were exactly what it needed. Plus, it would coordinate with the gift inside.

Tutorial

Step 1: Gather a pile of leftover yarn scraps (duh).

Step 2: Organize the yarn by color and size. Discard any pieces that are too small to use. For gift bag sized tassels, I recommend discarding any scraps smaller than 3.5 inches.

Step 3: Remove two of the longest scraps of yarn. Set these aside for later. Layer the yarn scraps so that they are centered with the ends sticking out in various lengths.

Step 4: Using one of your long yarn scraps. Tie a knot around the center of the yarn pile.

Step 5: Pick up the yarn by the tie you just created. Pull the rest of the pieces downward.

Step 6: Using the second long scrap of yarn you set side, begin wrapping yarn horizontally a centimeter or two below the top of the tassel. Tie the ends together and trim the ends. You can either trim all ends to the same length, or leave them uneven as I have done here for more of a boho homemade look.

You’re finished! Use the long tie to attach your tassel to your gift bag.

How do you use yarn scraps? Share your ideas on Instagram and tag @sprucehillknits.