how to change colors in crochet in middle of row

Crochet projects don't have to be solid blocks of color – there are lots of great ways to add color to a pattern! And switching colors in the middle of a row is one of the most common methods. This allows you to make everything from simple geometric patterns to complex pictures. Here's the best way I know to switch colors in the middle of a row or round of crochet.

How to Change Colors in the Middle of a Row

The written instructions:

When you are ready to introduce a new color in the next stitch, you start with the previous stitch. Make the stitch as you normally would, but stop when there are two loops left on the hook (three for hdc sts), right before you would normally yarn over and pull through to finish the stitch. At this point, yarn over with the new color, Color B, and pull this new color loop through the loops on the hook. Let the unused original color, Color A, fall behind your work. Continue crocheting with Color B until you are ready to introduce a new color or switch back to Color A.

This method works with any kind of stitch. If you are making short color changes with only two or at most three colors of yarn, you have the option of enclosing the unused yarn in your stitches as you work, as in tapestry crochet, or you can leave the strands loose (though not too loose) on the back of your work, picking them up again as they get used. However, if you are working with lots of color changes or long stretches of one color before the first color gets used again, breaking the yarn and starting it over again with each change may be the better option.

Have you used this method for switching colors in the middle of a row or round before? What other tips or tutorials would you like to see videos for here on moogly? Let us know in the comments!

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