18 Stash Busting Crochet Projects

It’s been over 3 years since I put together this list of stash-busting crochet projects and it’s been one of my favorites. Over time some of the links have broken and some of the blogs that housed some amazing tutorials have gone offline. Today I’m updating this post and replacing those broken links and changing out old, missing tutorials for ones very similar that are currently available… Updates will be italicized. 

When you crochet you’re often left with odds and ends of different colors from projects past. Oftentimes you’ll have just a little bit of a whole bunch of colors that go together really, really well. But what are you going to do with 5 yards of yarn? If you’re like me you feel guilty at the thought of throwing it away so you stash it.

Today I’m sharing 18 fabulous stash busting crochet projects for you that all have patterns! (most are free but one is few bucks but noted before you click through)

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Everybody needs hangers. But why not make them a little more attractive while whittling down that yarn stash? Hang It Up Free Pattern from Spud & Chloe. (Don’t be alarmed… the photo appears to be missing from the post, currently, but the directions are still there so huzzah!)

I don’t know anyone these days who doesn’t carry hand sanitizer on their person just about all of the time but most of us have to go digging through our purses like a madwoman to find it. And that sucks when you’ve got somebody else’s snot on your hands. Learn how to make these adorable and totally functional Hand Sanitizer Cozies with Micah Makes.

I love these crocheted flip flops so much! What great house shoes would this guys make? Get the pattern for $5.50 from Mamachee on Etsy. Flip Flops Sized child/adult 3-10

Why not use up that yarn lying around, make a place to keep your pencils in good company and give that cardboard tube a job already. Crochet Case for Pencils from Petals to Picots.

The ball is one of the most versatile toys in the world. Give anyone from the age of 1 to 100 and they’ll play with it. These sprial balls aren’t only awesome looking  and a great way to bust some of that variegated  yarn you’re hoarding but they’ll also definitely get used! Spin Balls at Ravelry.

I LOVE the look of crochet jars. And with both jars and crochet being hot right now, could you get any hotter? See how to make your own fabulously shabby chic crochet jars by Lulu Loves (click through to the pattern on Ravelry).

These rings from Hands Occupied are fabulous and oh so easy to make. Heidi uses some Lion’s Brand Bonbons but you could also use up any scraps of lighter weight yarn you have hanging around. Though I do love the glitter in these! Crochet Ring DIY.

Aren’t these crochet tulips from Little Things Blogged so pretty? Absolutely gorgeous and a great way to scrap bust! I love how with the multi-color look of the bouquet, just about anything goes! Get the fantastic tutorial and pattern, Crochet Spring Tulips.

I have seen lots and lots of phone pouches but nothing that “speaks” to me. This one, on the other hand, with its large strap is perfect for me. Add a little pocket on the back for a debit card and a little bit of cash and I’ve got everything I need for a trip to the zoo or amusement park or street festival. The motif couldn’t be prettier, either! Blue Agave Phone Pouch at Moogly.

Oh my goodness! These lovely little crochet coasters are almost too pretty to get wet, aren’t they? Get the how to and be inspired by the lovely colors over at Lulu Loves! Crochet – Coasters.

Fancy hair ties can be expensive. And that seems silly when they can get lost so easily! I choose to DIY up my own instead and why not incorporate some of my yarn scraps in the process? These Hair Ties and Headbands from The Kraft Farm are fab! Check out these beautiful flower hair ties from Ravelry, instead!

I’m not one of those people who is mad about bunting, but I just cannot resist this granny bunting from Attic24. I mean, it’s so colorful and fun and just perfect! Get the tutorial to make these darling triangles – Granny Bunting Triangles.

Check out another fab hair doodad from You Seriously Made That?! And guess what? You need only know how to chain to make this gorgeous stunner. I am loving the orange with her hair, too! Thinking I need a few and my headband wearing sister needs about a dozen! The Knotted Headband Tutorial.

Over at Mon Makes Things there are tons of super neat project and I’ve had my eye on these crochet beads for some time. These suckers look great in a bowl and would be ah-mazing in DIY jewelry. Hmmm. Wheels are turning :) See how to make your own, Free Pattern Crochet Wooden Beads. The site currently looks odd at the top but scroll down and you can still see the fab tutorial!

Is it the wrong season to be sharing a Christmas ornament pattern? Um, yeah. But it’s awesome and I just cannot help it! Greedy for Colour will show you how to crochet up these amazing baubles that I just LOVE. I also love the presentation and the idea of giving them as a gift just like this. Extra bonus? These won’t shatter when your cat decides to climb the tree this December! Christmas Bauble Tutorial

Who needs a crochet bike seat? I think the better question is who the heck doesn’t? See how to make your very own in this guest post by How to Crochet a Heart at And Sew We Craft. Crochet Bike Seat Cover Tutorial

These crochet bows from Harvesting Hart are super easy and a great way to stash bust! Perfect for hair accessories, a little embellishment on your purse or, heck, go all out and cover a tote bag with them! Get the free pattern, Crochet Bow Pattern.

I am addicted to Chapstick. Well and truly and I currently have three different types to choose from right in front of me as I type this. However, I have NO chapsticks that are nearly as cute as these from Kristy over at Ravelry. This is a must make! Chapstick/Lip Balm Holder Pattern