How Do You Splice Yarn Together?

When knitting or crocheting, reaching the end of a yarn ball and figuring out how to seamlessly transition to a new one without tying a knot is a common hurdle. So, what do you do? Tie a knot and continue? Well, not exactly, especially if you're working with wool yarn.

The Spit-Splice Method

Today, I want to introduce an excellent solution: the spit-splice method. This time-saving, seamless technique is especially useful if you're incorporating multiple colors into your project. The resulting join is smooth and sturdy, making it a popular choice among knitting enthusiasts. Let's delve into the process.

Step-by-Step Spit-Splice Tutorial

First, separate the plies in each yarn end to be spliced, picking them apart for about 1" to 1 1/2" (2.5-4cm). Then, bring the two ends together so that the plies overlap and intermingle. Next, moisten the two ends with water, or if you prefer, a clean hand, and place the damp wool in the middle of your palm. Rub your hands together vigorously, ensuring you feel the heat and warmth from the friction.

Beating the Knot

As you continue rubbing, the overlapped area will thin and start holding together. The aim is to achieve an end result that is about as thick as one strand of yarn. If you feel it's not holding firmly, repeat the process and get a bit more aggressive with the hand rubbing. It's crucial to plan enough yarn for your spit splice—aim for about 6-8 stitches worth of wool, or around 6-8 inches on each side.

To Spit or Not to Spit

Now, I know what you're thinking – do I really need to use spit? The answer is no; water can work just as well. The success of this technique is not due to the spit itself, but rather the lack of excess liquid that can hinder the friction and heat needed for the fibers to felt together properly. For water, I recommend running one hand under the water, then drying it slightly. With a damp hand, rub them together vigorously with the yarn. If you observe excessive water, you can address it promptly and continue the rubbing process.

Limitations and Alternatives

A quick note about the limitations of this method: it's ideal for wool and other natural animal fibers that felt. Cotton, acrylic, and superwash yarn, which are treated to resist felting, will not be compatible with this technique.

This discussion should equip you with the key insights on using the spit-splice method to seamlessly splice wool yarn together, ensuring your knitting or crocheting projects have a smooth, knot-free transition between old and new yarn.