We’ve all been there—you fall in love with a colour, pop one ball into your cart “just in case,” and now it’s sitting in your stash, looking gorgeous but a little… underemployed. The good news? One ball of yarn can still go a long way! Whether it’s a full-sized skein or a leftover from another project, you’d be surprised at how many small but mighty makes you can whip up.
Now, we know not all yarn balls are created equal—some are a dainty 50m, others a generous 220m—so these project ideas come with a little flexibility depending on the meterage and yarn weight you’ve got on hand. Let’s dive into the one-ball wonders you can start (and finish!) without a second skein.
1. Headbands & Ear Warmers
Quick, practical, and stylish! These projects are perfect for scrap yarn or that squishy skein you’ve been saving. Go chunky for winter warmth or use cotton DK for a lighter, breezy feel. Bonus: They're also beginner-friendly and great gift ideas.
2. Scrunchies
A go-to for using up smaller bits of yarn, scrunchies are fast, fun, and functional. Use plush yarn for a voluminous look or cotton for a sleeker style. You’ll probably still have yarn left to make another (or five).
3. Bows
Tiny, soft, and oh-so-cute-embellishments — these are especially perfect in plush or chenille yarns. Whether you’re making a hair bow, a plushie embellishment, or a blanket tie-in, they only need a smidge of yarn and whip up in under 10 minutes.
4. Coasters
Functional and stylish! A ball of yarn can yield multiple coasters, depending on thickness. Try round, square, or even flower-shaped for extra flair. Great stash-buster and perfect for market prep too!
5. Simple Washcloths or Face Scrubbies
100% cotton yarn? You're in luck! A single ball can become a soft, reusable washcloth or a bunch of face scrubbies—perfect for gifting or treating yourself to a bit of eco-friendly luxury.
6. Bookmark or Keychain Charms
Even the smallest leftover yarn bits can turn into something sweet and practical. Think mini tassel bookmarks, hearts, flowers, or even micro amigurumi keychains. The possibilities are adorable and endless.
7. Cup Cosies & Mug Warmers
Cute and cozy, these are great stash-busting gifts! Use a thick yarn for insulation or a thinner one with texture for style points. Most cup cozies take less than 30m of yarn, and they work up in under an hour.
8. Baby Booties or Mittens
If you’ve got a bit more yarn (say 80–120m), you might have just enough for a pair of newborn booties or baby mittens.
9. Mini Plushies or Amigurumi Charms
Plush yarn lovers, rejoice! One ball is often enough to make a tiny bear, bunny, or even a blob with eyes (yes, that counts!). Keep it simple, and let the yarn do the talking.
10. The Classic Granny Square (or Solid Square)
Perfect for when you're not sure what to make. One ball can give you a few squares to stash for a bigger project later—or join them up to make a coaster, pouch, or even a small wall hanging.
A Few Tips for One-Ball Success:
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Check your yarn’s meterage. A 100g ball might be 40m (like plush chenille) or 220m (like cotton DK)—choose your project accordingly.
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Match the hook size. Using a slightly larger hook can stretch your yarn further for looser, airy textures.
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Stick to small, flat items if your meterage is low. Coasters, bows, and headbands are always a good idea.
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Get creative with colour. If you've got several lonely balls in different shades, mix them together in a scrappy design!
So before you toss that single ball back in the stash and say, “I’ll find something for you later,” try one of these one-ball wonders. Small project, big satisfaction—and way fewer yarn leftovers haunting you from the craft corner.
Happy hooking! 🧶✨