Changing colors in crochet is a technique that is commonly used to add some visual interest to the piece. I use this technique all the time for amigurumi.
I've also received many questions about how to change color when they were making their crochet checkered bucket hat!
If you are changing colors between rows to add stripes to your crochet piece, try the half-color change technique to achieve a neater color change so that the colors don't "bleed" into the next row.
In the following example, I am showing you how to change color using single crochet, but know that this method can be adapted to other stitches (e.g. half double crochet, double crochet, triple crochet, etc.) that you are using as long as you change to your new color in the last step.
Once you've completed the stitch, the remaining loop on your hook should be in the NEW color.
Here's a video tutorial followed by the pictorial below:
How to Change Colors in Crochet
1. On the last stitch with the OLD color, insert the hook into the stitch as usual.
2. Start the stitch and draw up a loop with the OLD color.
3. Yarn over with the NEW color and pull through both loops on the hook to finish off your stitch using the new color.
4. Continue crocheting with the new color.
By changing the color in the last step when you pull through both loops on the hook with the new color, you create a loop in the new color that will sit on top of the new color that you continue to crochet with.
Tip for Carrying the Unused Yarn Color in Crochet
If you plan to change back to the old color at some point, you can choose to carry the unused color inside the stitches. This method is more efficient than cutting and weaving in all the ends when the project is complete.
You want to carry the yarn on the wrong side of the fabric. Have the unused yarn sit above your hook as you make the stitch so it's embedded inside the stitch.
Also, before you change color again, make sure you give the carried yarn end a tug so that it won't be bunched up inside the stitches.
And there you are! Now that you know how to make perfect color changes in crochet!
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This is an original crochet tutorial written by Juli Anne of Once Upon a Cheerio. Please do not claim this crochet tutorial as your own. If you wish to share this crochet tutorial, you may link to this blog post, but please do not reprint it on your site. You may keep a copy for personal use, but please DO NOT sell or distribute the crochet pattern.
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