Changing colors in crochet can feel like one of those things that should be simple… but somehow turns into a tangle of loops and second-guessing.
Play Hooky with Me recently shared a color change method that’s not only smoother—it’s also faster and works with any stitch.
The best part? It doesn’t require advance planning. You can literally change colors on the fly, even in the middle of a row. And yes, it still looks great.
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The Traditional Way (And Why It’s a Bit Fussy)
If you’ve done a color change before, you probably know the routine: work half of a stitch, drop the old color, bring in the new one, and then finish the stitch.
Nothing wrong with it—it works! But let’s be honest: it can get a little fiddly. Threads loosen, stitches shift, and before you know it, you’re spending more time fixing than stitching.
The New Method: Less Fuss, More Flexibility
This newer method works with the same idea—swap colors between stitches—but it’s way more forgiving and flexible. Here’s the gist:
- Work your stitch as usual. No need to stop early or prepare for a color change.
- When you’re ready to switch, pull up a small loop and remove your hook.
- Insert the hook into the front loop and the little horizontal bar just behind it.
- Pull the new color through.
- Either finish the stitch now or tighten the loop from the previous color and move on.
That’s it. No drama, no rewinding, no timing it perfectly two loops before the stitch ends.
Mid-Row? Side of Row? Any Stitch? Yes, Yes, and Yes
Here’s where this method really shines: it works anywhere.
- In the middle of a row
- At the side of your work
- With single, half double, double, or treble crochet
You can adapt it to any stitch. The only thing that changes is where you insert the hook (usually into a pair of loops or bars near the top of the stitch). Once you get the hang of it, the muscle memory kicks in quickly.
What About Tapestry Crochet?
Yes, it works there too. Play Hooky with Me demonstrates the method with tapestry color changes and confirms it’s just as tidy and manageable.
The little float at the back? It’s the same as with traditional changes, so no downside there. It’s still clean and secure.
And Weaving in Ends?
Nothing new here either. You’ll still weave in ends with your favorite method. The transition point looks clean, so you don’t need to do anything special to hide it.
Why This Might Be Your New Favorite Color Change
For crocheters who’ve ever forgotten to stop two loops short for a color change (guilty), this method is a lifesaver. You don’t have to plan ahead or undo stitches to get it “just right.” You just… change colors when you feel like it.
It’s quick, intuitive, and beginner-friendly—and once you try it, you might not go back. Don’t ask why it works so well. It just does.
Final Thoughts
Play Hooky with Me’s color change tip is a simple switch that can make your crochet smoother and less stressful. Whether you’re doing a complex colorwork piece or just changing yarns between stripes, this method gives you more freedom with less fuss. If you’ve ever groaned mid-project at a color transition gone wrong, give this technique a try. It just might be the one that sticks.
