I began my stash bash challenge when I constructed a hodge podge afghan that I thought was a fun way to begin using up spare yarn and ends of skeins. I figured – why not use up all of my yarn? Especially as the projects I hope to start require some yarn-investments and parting with my funds when I have lots of unused yarn laying around seemed a bit silly.

Then it happened, I became overwhelmed almost as quickly as I started! Each project in the pipeline seemed more appealing when I felt further away from working on it and I was in a rush to use up my stash as soon as possible. I began this process by cataloging my yarn on Ravelry which was so helpful! I was able to know exactly what yardage I had available which made it easier (and sometimes harder) to select projects. With over half of my stash used in less than a month I was stuck with a few novelty yarns and some sock-weights to master and had hit a wall when it came to ideas. I seem to have too little yardage for the things that interest me and too little patience for those that don’t!

I did successfully use all of my baby yarn making hats for charity. I also used up my coveted handspun making hats as gifts.

Best of all I FINALLY finished the Hourglass Jacket by StitchDiva that I originally began in June. It awaits blocking once I receive my Knitters Blocks which are on back order.

I reserved two skeins of Vanna’s Choice Glamour to make my daughter a short sleeve wrap and 2 skeins of LB Collection Superwash Merino Wool that I am using for more toddler hats. I still have 3 untouched skeins of Karabella Lace Mohair and absolutely no idea what to do with it, though the $50 price tag has me hanging on to it. This was the pattern I originally purchased it for: http://www.karabellayarns.com/patterndetail.aspx?pattID=107. I may attempt another try at it soon, my first go was confusing and I had to unravel my project.

Meanwhile I have packaged up the end skeins I have left and am sending them to Newborns in Need – a charity that makes newborn items and I’m sure could use up the mininal yardage amounts on these skeins for bibs, booties and even more hats.

What’s next? I have to finish these hats and cardigan first, but I’m excited to choose! I know I definitely want to knit a sweater this year, so I plan on using a pattern from AwareKnits: Knit & Crochet Projects for the Eco-Conscious Stitcher. I also want to crochet a round jute rug for my kitchen and check out Debbie Stoller’s new Stitch Nation yarn. Most of all – I want to order Studio Silk for the Endless Cardi Shawl (crochet version). All of these total to more yarn investments so we’ll see where my pocketbook leads me first. For the time being, I have to run to the post office and send off my stash! Goodbye yarn, hello possibilities!