Creating Compelling Yarn Colorways

If you're new to fiber arts, colorways can be daunting at first. Try starting with three or five colors because a small (odd*) number of complementing colors guarantee striking and harmonious results.

For experienced yarn enthusiasts, design "rules" are meant to be broken. More complex projects call for expanded colors, some in even numbered combos with stunning results.

The most compelling colorways are created with an odd number of colors; a design principle in interior design, graphic design, artists pallets and yarn colors.

Stash busting? Use these swatches to create well balanced waves of color using every color in your stash. Start with one swatch for your first "set" of color. Complete all the colors in the swatch (l-r or r-l), when done, pick your next swatch/yarn set, making sure the last row of the previous swatch, complements the first color on the new swatch because they will be worked next to each other. This makes for easy color transitions. Think "a train of colorways"!

I also enjoy combining multiple colors for squares and motifs using the quick easy tools here at CraftPassion.com you won't believe how many unique, non-repeating color squares you can make using 8 colors, 3 colors per square (336!?). And she makes it effortless –a must read.

How often have you gone to the yarn store to buy yarn in a colorway you carefully thought out at home; to find one or more colors aren't in stock? These swatches have helped me adapt quickly in the yarn isle many times.

This digital swatch scroll is my inspiration when starting a new project. Without it, all my yarn projects would look oddly similar!

You may need to sub a one or two colors when the exact color tone/intensity  isn't available. Simply match a similar color(s) from the swatch photo or move to your second choice –hopefully, you can get cell phone service in the yarn dept. and not have to go outside?!

So, bookmark and take these colorways with you. If you have a digital photo you love for the colors, send it over and I'll make a swatch just for you and add it to this collection.** My best swatches are yet to come...

* Read more about odd vs. even numbers in composition (or yarning) here. 

**FINE PRINT: ONE IMAGE PER YARNER, PLEASE. Send an unaltered digital photo (minimum 1200×1800 pixels) via our contact form. Most (unaltered) cell phone photos are fine for this page. I reserve the right to refuse any photo for poor quality or content. Swatches will be created/posted as time allows. I'll emailed a copy of the swatch to you when complete.