Knit-A-Square

After completing several big projects (afghans, baby blankets, stuffed animals, etc) a year for 2-3 years I found myself buried in yards of remnant yarn. In my search projects that could use up this "scrap" yarn, there were several features that I liked about Knit-A-Square


1.) My efforts would yield a product that I didn't have to keep in my house (unlike other projects such as coasters and pillows)
2.) Any and all yarns types, weights, and colors are acceptable and can be mixed and matched
3.) This is a Charity
4.) Contrary to the title of the webpage, this company welcomes knit and crochet projects
5.) Contrary tot he title of the webpage, this company welcomes more than just square projects

After Christmas in 2013 I started making 8" Granny Squares for this charity and have since made squares after completing most of my major projects. I have yet to mail my squares, but making these has made quite a dent in my stash of leftover yarn.

Recently, I finished the Night Owls blanket from Mary Maxim for my newborn nephew, Lincoln. After finishing the blanket, I was able to make an additional 19-8" Granny squares for this Charity (in addition to an adorable elf sweater for my sister's dog, Teddy.)

I find it comforting that as my nephew treasures his handmade blanket, a stranger thousands of miles away will have something of his own to treasure that bears some resemblance to two projects that have meant  a lot to me to make. 

Most Granny Square patterns I researched are designed to be assembled into a Granny Square afghan, so they may not always be the best to follow if you are interested in using up a collection of mismatched yarn. 

Knit-a-Square has several patterns to follow including this adorable heart square. I have also made a gauge square and then followed my favorite knit stitches to make a simple 8" square pattern (Garter Stitch, Double Moss stitch, and Basket Weave stitch included.) I had a skein of yarn that I had no intention of using in a project for myself or for a friend, so I started this ribbed slip over.

There are 2 crochet patterns I used: This pattern (yields a more solid colored square) and a modification of this pattern (pictured above). I needed 6 rounds with a medium weight yarn and size J hook to make an 8" square. 

If you have an abundance of yarn to use up, this directory may get you started in using up your stash to create a variety of interesting squares. 

A video of my 8" square pattern can be found here!

Are there any projects you have made for charity? What do you do with your scrap yarn?