Joining Yarn

Step 2: Break off a 4 inch length of separated ply(s) from the end of each yarn.

In the example of the 2-ply yarn shown, one of the separated plies has been broken off each yarn end for a total of 2 strands remaining on both yarn ends.

If you are joining a 3-ply yarn, you would break off the group of 2 of the plies from the remaining ply; on the other end you would break off 1 of the plies from the remaining group of 2 plies. This gives a total of 3 strands remaining on both yarn ends..

If you are joining a 4-ply yarn, you would break off a separated group of 2 plies off each yarn end for a total of 4 strands remaining on both yarn ends.

Step 3: Lay the remaining separated plies of each yarn end side-by-side and in opposite directions across your palm.

Step 4: Slightly moisten the area to be joined, and briskly rub your other palm back and forth across it until the fibers re-twist and lightly fuse together. Because the total number of separated plies was equal to the number of plies in the rest of the yarn, the result after re-twisting should be a uniform thickness across the join.

Step 5: Let the joined yarn area dry, then proceed with your knitting.

HeartStrings FiberArts is a wholesale pattern company. I encourage individuals to visit your local yarn store or check the Store Locator to purchase patterns. If you don't already have a favorite retailer from whom to buy, you can use the HeartStrings online catalog at Shopatron. This service will find a retailer who has the patterns you want in stock and will ship to you promptly.