Hey there, yarn-lovers!
You know those gradient or ombre mini skeins we all can't resist? The ones with color changes that are so gradual and gorgeous it feels like magic? Well, they're not just pretty to look at. They can also make our knitting and crochet projects look downright stunning.
If you've ever picked up a set of these mini skeins and thought, "These are cool, but what on earth am I going to make with them?" — this post is for you.
I've been on a bit of a mission recently to find you a selection of patterns out there for these gradient yarns. Patterns that really show off those smooth colour transitions and make your work pop.
So, I've pulled together a selection of eight knitting and crochet pattern recommendations that are perfect for your gradient or ombre mini or larger skeins.
Get comfy, grab your favorite drink, and let's have a little yarn chat. I'm excited to share these pattern finds with you! Ready to get started?
[Please be aware that all of these buttons lead to the patterns on ravelry]
1. Around Every Corner - Stephanie Lotven
The Around the Corner shawl is a 4ply triangle shawl knit seamlessly from the top down. The pattern includes basic intarsia worked in garter stitch. If you are new to intarsia, this shawl is a great place to try the technique for the first time. The pattern includes straightforward instructions and an intarsia photo tutorial.
Just perfect for one of our ombre mini fade sets and a beautiful solid for the main colour.
Yarn Requirements: 1x100g & 1 set 6 skein 20g minis
2. Inara Wrap - Ambah O'Brien
Inara is perfect for two sets of gradient yarns for a rich ombre. Diagonal columns of alternating lace and garter stitch make a strong statement without being intimidating. Included is a schematic to colour in to play with your colour scheme. Worked end to end, this long wrap can easily be shortened or lengthened as you like.
Perfect for the ombre/gradient set pair.
Yarn Requirements: 2 x 6 skein gradient sets
3. Crushed - Rachel Molenaar
Feel the need for some lace knitting in your life, well this heart-shaped shawlette is worked top-down. The graceful wings hug your shoulders – this is a shawl that doesn’t slip off easily. The lace pattern of the body evolves into a nupp-enhanced lower border.
The main body pattern repeats every 24 rows, making it simple to customize the size and use more or less yarn.
Yarn Requirements: 1 set of gradient minis
4. Summer Madness - Sophie McKane
A perfect summer top, and some simple summer knitting, sometimes we all long for some laidback knitting with mininal effort and concentration. An easy to knit and easy to wear top, worked straight from the bottom up in two identical piece and finshed with an icord bind off.
Could be perfect for the ombre/gradient set pair, or of course could be made in a single colour.
Yarn Requirements: 9 x 20g minis
5. Even Cowgirls get the Blues - Kat Goldin
Are you a crocheter? Well this could be the pattern for you.
A stunning and classic pattern with the basic premise of a half hap shawl, with its plain central panel and rippled edging seemed to be the perfect pairing.
Yarn Requirements: 1 x 100g & set 20g of minis
This can be found under kits in the medina gradient/fade colourway, but you can easily make your own kit or get in touch if you need help.
6. Saturday Hat - Jodi Brown
Who doesnt love a hat, even in the warmer weather I find they are a wonderful instant gratification project. This new design is super cozy and colourful contrast, this DK weight hat has it all…mosaic knitting, contrasted colors and a fun twin stitch that makes the prettiest all over texture. This hat will fly off your needles.
You could knit in DK or hold 4ply double of course.
Yarn Requirements: 100g DK & Set of minis
8. Cherry Berry Wrap - Ambah O'Brien
Ok so this is for 6 x 50g skeins but how could I not include in this list as its just perg=fect for ombre/gradient yarns.
Knit from the centre out, you’ll be able enjoy each colour in full before you move onto the next in this meditative knit and create a delicious wrap to snuggle into as the days turn from warm to cool.
Yarn Requirements: 6 x 50g Skeins in an ombre/gradient/fade design
8. Lace & Fade Boxy - Joji Locatelli
This may not be for minis but I just couldn't miss this off the list as it would look fab in an ombre set
Boxy sweaters are like a friend who loves us dearly: always makes us feel comfortable and beautiful. They suit all body shapes and can be dressed up or down. In this version, delicate bands of lace alternate with bands of silky fabric that subtly change colors.
Yarn Requirements: 5 colours in a fade or gradient
And there you have it! Eight fabulous knitting and crochet patterns to make the most of those beautiful gradient or ombre mini skeins. Remember, no matter which project you choose, the most important part is to have fun and enjoy the process. After all, every stitch is a chance to relax, create, and watch those gorgeous colors evolve.
I hope you're leaving with a bunch of new project ideas and a fresh dose of inspiration. Don't forget to share your progress with me; I'd love to see your work come to life so tag me on Instagram @thelittlegreygirluk
Did I miss out your favourite?? … let me know in the comments below or get in touch via Instagram or email
Shop the gradient palettes
Take a look at the 6 skein gradient packs which are available in 10g and 20g minis ready to ship, in 4 colours.
Looking for a larder amount or a different base you can ore-order in DK and Suri Fluff 20g minis as well as 50g and 100g skein sets for all those project needs.
1 comment
Ooo thanks for these. What a great selection, lots of inspiration!
Mairead on