If you’ve been knitting or crocheting for a while, you have probably noticed how quickly a yarn stash can grow. Finding the best way to store yarn is important not only to keep organized for your own sake, but also to make sure the yarn stays in good condition.
From smaller collections to large, room-filling stashes, there are many practical and creative ways to store yarn that fit different needs and spaces. Maybe you’re working with limited storage at home or have a dedicated craft area? Let’s explore the best methods for yarn storage to keep your fibers tidy and tangle-free.
Why Does It Matter How You Store Your Yarn?
Before diving into how to store yarn in the best way, we want to highlight exactly why proper storage is key. Yarn, especially natural fibers like wool and cotton, can be sensitive to humidity, pests, and sunlight. Therefore, if it’s not stored properly, the yarn is at risk of becoming a tangled mess, faded in colors, or even damaged. By organizing your yarn smart and practical, you’ll not only preserve the yarn quality, but it’ll also be easier to find the right skein when inspiration strikes. A win-win in other words!
What Does The Ideal Yarn Storage Look Like?
The first step in storing yarn properly is to choose the right storage method that fits both your space and your crafting habits. Here are a few foundational tips on how to store yarn the best way possible:
Keep it dry
Moisture and humidity can ruin yarn, causing mold or mildew. Make sure your yarn is stored in a cool, dry space, away from any damp areas. So the laundry room might not be the best place, unless the air is completely dry at all times.
Avoid direct sunlight
Exposure to strong, direct sunlight can fade the yarn’s vibrant colors over time. Store your yarn in shaded or enclosed spaces to maintain its original hues. A good idea is to opt for a canvas bag or something similar, to shield the yarn from those UV-rays!
Organize by color, weight, or fiber
This tip is mostly to keep your yarn stash organized and easily accessible. Sorting your yarn helps you quickly find what you need! For instance you can sort your yarn by color, weight (such as worsted or bulky), or fiber type (wool, acrylic, cotton).
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Should All Yarn Types Be Stored The Same Way?
You can usually store all types of yarn in similar ways, but as mentioned it can be quite practical to sort skeins by material for better organization. However, some yarns are more delicate than others. Natural fibers like wool and cotton are more sensitive to moisture and pests, so they need extra care, such as being stored in airtight containers.
On the other hand, acrylic and synthetic yarns are more durable and can be stored in open bins without much worry. To put it simply; it is not a must to tailor your yarn storage for each material but keeping the fiber type in mind can help keep your yarn in great condition!
Creative Ways to Store Yarn at Home
Now that you know the basics, let’s get creative with ways to store yarn at home! Whether you want to keep it simple or turn your yarn collection into a decorative feature, there are plenty of storing options.
Clear Storage Bins
Clear plastic bins are one of the best ways to store yarn at home. They protect the yarn from dust and pests while allowing you to still easily see your stash. Stackable bins are a great solution if you’re short on space, and they’re perfect for organizing by color or project!
Shelving Units and Cubes
If you prefer to display your yarn, shelving units or cubed storage are fantastic options. Arrange your yarn by color for a visually appealing and organized display that doubles as decor. Just think of how beautiful the displays in your favorite yarn store look! Shelves also allow quick and easy access to your yarn when you’re ready to start a new project.
Glass Jars and Containers
For smaller collections or leftover yarn scraps, glass jars can be a stylish way to store your yarn. This storage option makes it easy to keep your yarn visible and accessible, while adding a charming, crafty touch to your space. This is an especially creative way to store yarn for those with limited space in small apartments, or those who just want to keep their materials on display.
Pegboards and Wall Racks
If you’re short on floor space, storing your yarn vertically is a great hack. For example you could go for pegboards or wall-mounted racks that allow you to hang your yarn in a way that’s both practical and visually appealing. This creative solution keeps your yarn off the floor while still giving you easy access, and it gives a fun craft-room vibe!
Wicker Baskets and Totes
If you enjoy knitting on the go and taking your projects with you, a portable yarn storage will make your life a whole lot easier. Wicker baskets or decorative totes makes it easy to grab your stash. When you’re at home you can tuck the baskets under furniture, place them in closets, or keep them right beside your favorite knitting spot. Perfect for crafters who like to keep their yarn close at hand while working on a project!
Hanging Shoe Organizers
For those living in extra small spaces, like a tiny studio apartment without a lot of storage space, hanging shoe organizers can be a smart hack. These make it easy to store all kinds of things in a practical way without taking up too much space, including yarn!
The individual compartments allow you to organize skeins by color or weight, and the clear pockets let you see everything at a glance. You can easily hang these organizers on the back of a door or inside a closet for an effective, space-saving solution.
StorageTips for Extra Large Yarn Stashes
If you have a larger collection, organizing becomes even more crucial. Here are some extra tips for managing even the most extensive yarn stash:
- Label everything: Use labels or tags to note the yarn’s weight, fiber content, and yardage. This is especially helpful when storing similar yarns that may be difficult to distinguish at a glance!
- Use ziplock bags or vacuum-seal bags: For long-term storage, you can consider placing yarn in airtight bags. This protects against moisture and pests, particularly for natural fibers like wool.
- Rotate your stash: If you’re a serious knitter that has accumulated a lot of yarn, it’s quite easy to forget what you have. Make sure to rotate your stash occasionally to remind yourself of yarn you might have forgotten about and make use of older yarn before buying more.
Storing Yarn for Future Projects
Planning future projects often involves keeping a variety of yarn on hand. One of the best ways to store yarn for future use is by grouping yarn into project bags or bins. For each project, gather the yarn, patterns, and any needed tools in a dedicated space, so everything is ready when you have time to craft. This system keeps your workspace tidy and ensures you don’t lose track of materials.
Conclusion
There is no one best way to store yarn. There are of course some factors to consider, but finding the best way to store yarn ultimately depends on your space, your collection size, and how you like to craft.
Whether you prefer a creative display or a practical, hidden storage, there are a lot of great options. With these tips and ideas, you can keep your yarn in top condition, making your crafting process smoother and more enjoyable. Get ready to embrace your creativity, not just when you’re knitting but in how you store your beloved yarn!
How do you like to store your yarn? Comment down below or share a picture of your yarn stash and tag us on Instagram!
