How to Change Color in Crochet (Step-by-Step Tutorial)

Learning how to change color in crochet is an essential skill in crochet that every crocheter should master. Whether you're working on amigurumi, wearable, or home decor, knowing how to switch yarn colors cleanly can really elevate the look of your crochet pieces.

I use this color change technique all the time, especially when designing amigurumi, but I've also had a lot of readers email me for instructions on how to change colors when working on my crochet checkered bucket hat pattern. It's a common question, and for good reason!

In the tutorial below, I'll show you how to change color using single crochet, but just 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 color change, the new loop on your hook before the next stitch should be in the NEW yarn color. OK, let's get started!

In This Post...

Changing Colors in Crochet (Video Tutorial)

How to Change Colors in Crochet

In the following tutorial, I will be referring to the first color in Color A and the color you want to change to (i.e., the second color) as Color B.

Step 1. On the last stitch with Color A, insert the hook into the stitch as usual.

Step 2. Draw up a loop with Color A.

Step 3. Yarn over in Color B, pull through both loops on the hook to finish off your stitch in Color B.

Step 4. The loop on your hook with Color B will be the stitch that sits on top of your next stitch.

Step 5. Insert your hook into the next stitch with a loop in Color B on your hook.

Step 6. Draw up a loop with Color B.

Step 7. Yarn over and pull through the two loops on your hook in Color B.

Step 8. You've successfully changed colors. Now you can continue crocheting with your new color!

By changing the color in the last step when you pull through both loops on the crochet 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.

Changing yarn colors is quite easy once you know the simple trick described above. This technique works if you need to change colors in the middle of a spiral, a joined round, or a row.

Changing Colors in Single Crochet

The method above is the same whether you're working with single crochet stitches or other basic crochet stitches, but here are the specific instructions for the single crochet.

1. Insert your hook into the stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop. You should have two loops on your hook.
2. Drop the current yarn. Yarn over with the new color, and pull it through both loops on the hook to complete the stitch.
3. Proceed with the next stitch using the new color.

Changing Colors in Half-Double Crochet

1. Yarn over, insert your hook into the stitch, yarn over again, and pull up a loop. You should have three loops on your hook.
2. Drop the current yarn. Yarn over with the new color and pull it through all three loops on the hook to complete the stitch.
3. Proceed with the next stitch using the new color.

Changing Colors in Double Crochet

1. Yarn over, insert your hook into the stitch, yarn over again, and pull up a loop. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops on the hook. You should have two loops remaining.
2. Drop the current yarn. Yarn over with the new color and pull it through the remaining two loops on the hook to complete the stitch.
3. Proceed with the next stitch using the new color.

You can also follow this technique with other taller stitches, like the treble (or triple) crochet and double treble crochet, too.

And there you are! Now that you know how to make perfect color changes in crochet!

Tips and Tricks when Changing Colors in Crochet

• To secure the yarn tails, you can crochet over them as you work the next few stitches.
• Maintaining consistent tension when introducing the new color helps in achieving a neat transition.
• For a cleaner look, especially when changing colors at the end of a row, consider using the invisible join technique.

Managing Yarn Tails When Changing Colors in Crochet

When working on crochet projects that involve color changes, handling yarn tails and multiple strands of yarn efficiently is crucial for a neat finish. Here are some methods to manage yarn tails effectively:

Carrying the Unused Strand of Yarn

If you plan to return to a previous color later in your project, carrying the unused yarn along your work can minimize the number of ends to weave in. Here's how:

• Lay the unused strand on the wrong side (back of your work) and crochet over it with the new yarn color. This embeds the strand within the stitches, keeping it hidden and secure.
• Before switching back to the carried color, gently tug on the yarn to ensure it's not too loose or too tight. Proper tension prevents bunching and maintains the fabric's integrity.
• Tip: Avoid carrying dark-color strands under light-colored stitches, as the dark strands may show through. In some cases, it's better to cut and rejoin the yarn to maintain a clean appearance.

Crocheting Over Loose Ends

To minimize weaving in later, you can crochet over the loose ends:

• After changing to a different color, lay the loose end of the new yarn color along the top of the previous row, as you work the next few stitches, crochet over the loose end, securing it within the stitches.
• This technique is especially useful at the end of the row or when starting with a new color, as it tidies up the transition point.

Weaving in Ends with a Tapestry Needle

For a more secure finish, especially in projects that will undergo frequent use or washing:

• Use a tapestry needle to thread the yarn tail.
• Weave the tail through several stitches on the wrong side of your work, changing direction at least once to lock it in place.
• After weaving, trim any excess yarn close to the fabric.

This method ensures that the tails are securely fastened and less likely to come undone over time.

Using Slip Stitch for Color Changes

When changing colors at the beginning of a row or round:

• After completing the last stitch of the current color, insert your hook into the first stitch of the new row or round, yarn over with the new color, and pull through to complete the slip stitch. This method provides a seamless transition between colors.
• Begin the next row or round with the new yarn color, ensuring the loose end is secured as described above.

By employing these techniques, you can manage yarn tails and loose strands effectively during color changes, resulting in a clean and polished crochet project.

You Might Also Like...

• Half-Color Change Crochet Technique: Learn how to change colors in the middle of a stitch, rather than at the end, to create a smoother and cleaner transition between rounds.
• How to Single Crochet Decrease & Invisible Decrease: Learn the best technique for shaping your amigurumi or crochet pieces without visible gaps.
• How to Use a Running Stitch Marker: Discover this handy tip to help you mark your rounds as you go, making your projects easier to follow.

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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.