How to make a Magic Ball

What's a Magic Ball you say? It's a brilliant use of odds 'n ends from previous projects that almost always ends up in a beautiful one-of-a-kind ball of yarn. Depending on how many odds and ends you have (or how adventurous you are), you could end up with a ball big enough to knit a sweater... or maybe just small enough to create a hat or scarf. Whatever project you end up with, you're bound to have a good time working on it. So watch (and read!) as Sandy explains how to make your own Magic Ball.

1. Begin with several balls (or odds 'n ends) of yarn of similar gauge. They can be as similar or different in texture/color as you like, but we think the more varied, the better!
2. Cut about 1 yard (hint: for most people, an arm's length away from your body is about a yard) from the first ball. From the second ball, cut a piece that is slightly different in length. Your pieces can vary in length as much as you want, but we recommend at least 6-12" variation in length to keep from getting a completely uniform 'striping' pattern.
3. Put the two pieces together and tie an overhand knot leaving approximately 2" on the tail end. (When knitting with your Magic Ball, you'll want to knit in all of those 2"ends, rather than weaving them in later!)
4. Begin making a center pull ball by wrapping the yarn in a figure-eight around your first and middle fingers a few times. Slip the yarn off your fingers, lay the two sets of loops upon themselves, and begin wrapping yarn around this 'base' layer. (here is an article on creating a center pull ball)
5. Cut another piece of yet another ball, slightly longer or shorter than the second piece.
6. Hold the third piece with the long end of the second piece and tie an overhand knot, leaving about 2" on the short end.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6, continuing to wind the ball as you go, until you've reached the desired length (or until your scraps are gone!).

Posted by Laura of Jimmy Beans Wool