Yarn on a budget

Published on September 26, 2025 at 6:54 PM

How to Crochet Without Breaking the Bank

Crochet doesn’t have to be expensive to be fulfilling. Whether you're a student, a busy parent, or just watching your wallet, you can still create beautiful, meaningful pieces without splurging. Here’s how to stretch your creativity, and your budget.

Smart Ways to Find Affordable Yarn and Tools

  • Discount Stores & Dollar Shops: Many carry basic yarns and hooks perfect for practice or simple projects.
  • Online Deals: Watch for sales on sites like LoveCrafts, Joann, or Michaels. Sign up for newsletters to snag coupons.
  • Buy in Bulk: Larger skeins or multipacks often cost less per yard.
  • Swap with Friends: Join local crafting groups or online forums to trade supplies.

Repurpose, Reuse, Reimagine

  • Scrap Magic: Save leftover yarn from past projects to make striped scarves, granny squares, or colorful coasters.
  • Thrift Store Treasures: Look for yarn, hooks, or even old sweaters you can unravel and reuse.
  • Upcycle Fabric: Cut old t-shirts into strips to make chunky yarn for baskets or rugs.

Budget-Friendly Projects to Try

  • Granny Square Blankets: Great for using up scraps and experimenting with color.
  • Dishcloths & Face Scrubbies: Quick, practical, and perfect for cotton yarn remnants.
  • Hair Accessories: Scrunchies, headbands, and bows use minimal yarn but make great gifts.
  • Mini Amigurumi: Small stuffed animals or charms that only need a few yards of yarn.

Where to Shop Smart

  • Joann/Michaels: Seasonal sales & coupons. 
  • Thrift Stores: Best for yarn, hooks, and fabric finds.
  • Facebook Marketplace: best for basic hooks and small skeins. 

Here is a video of how to make yarn using a shirt. This video is from @Sustainmycrafthabit. 

 

 

Crochet doesn’t need to cost a fortune to be meaningful. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can turn scraps into treasures and thrifted finds into handmade joy. Whether you're repurposing old t-shirts or scoring deals online, every stitch tells a story, and yours can start right here, without breaking the bank.