Two Easy Ways to Add Tassels to Your Knitting Projects

Tassels. Those playful, charming additions that instantly elevate a knitted project from lovely to luxurious. Whether it's a cozy scarf, a whimsical hat, or a sophisticated pillow cover, a well-placed tassel can add a touch of personality and visual interest. Often, knitters shy away from adding tassels, believing the process to be complex and time-consuming. But fear not! Adding tassels is surprisingly simple, and with just a few easy steps, you can transform your creations. We're going to explore two incredibly straightforward methods, perfect for even the most novice knitter.

Forget complicated instructions and frustrating knots! This guide will walk you through two foolproof ways to attach tassels to your knitting, ensuring a professional finish every time. Whether you prefer a simple, quick method or a slightly more involved approach for a fuller tassel, we've got you covered. Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and add a touch of tassel magic to your next knitting project!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • crochet hook
  • yarn needle
  • strong thread
  • scissors
  • container or cardboard
Safety Guidelines
  • Always secure your tassels firmly to prevent them from detaching and becoming a choking hazard, especially in children's items.
  • Use sharp scissors with caution when cutting yarn for tassels to avoid injury. Consider using a yarn cutter for increased safety.
  • If adding tassels to garments intended for washing, ensure your chosen yarn and attachment method are suitable for washing to prevent damage or unraveling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Tassel Strands

    • Prepare the yarn strands for tassels. Wrap yarn around a container (cardboard works well) to create even strands. The number of wraps equals the number of strands per tassel.
    • Cut the wrapped yarn on one side to create the strands. Separate the strands into groups according to your desired tassel size.
    Cut the wrapped yarn on one side to create the strands. Separate the strands into groups according to your desired tassel size.Cut the wrapped yarn on one side to create the strands. Separate the strands into groups according to your desired tassel size.
    Prepare Tassel Strands
  2. Attach Tassels: Crochet Hook Method

    • Crochet Hook Method. Fold the strands in half to create a loop. Insert the crochet hook through a loop in your knitting (not too close to the edge).
    • Catch the center of the strand bunch with the hook and pull it back through the knitting.
    • Put your fingers through the loop, grab the yarn ends, and pull them through to tighten the knot.
    Put your fingers through the loop, grab the yarn ends, and pull them through to tighten the knot.Put your fingers through the loop, grab the yarn ends, and pull them through to tighten the knot.Put your fingers through the loop, grab the yarn ends, and pull them through to tighten the knot.
    Attach Tassels: Crochet Hook Method
  3. Attach Tassels: Yarn Needle Method

    • Yarn Needle Method. Lay the strands over a piece of strong thread, ensuring the thread is centered.
    • Thread the thread ends through a yarn needle and insert the needle from front to back through the knitting.
    • Remove the needle and thread. Put your fingers through the loop, grab the yarn ends, and pull them through to tighten.
    Remove the needle and thread. Put your fingers through the loop, grab the yarn ends, and pull them through to tighten.Remove the needle and thread. Put your fingers through the loop, grab the yarn ends, and pull them through to tighten.Remove the needle and thread. Put your fingers through the loop, grab the yarn ends, and pull them through to tighten.
    Attach Tassels: Yarn Needle Method

Read more: Knitting a Reversible Basketweave Blanket: A Customizable Guide

Tips

  • Don't overlap the yarn too much when wrapping it around the container.
  • For thicker tassels, use more yarn strands.
  • Plan the placement of tassels along the knitted edge for even spacing.
  • Use a plastic yarn needle; they are less likely to split the yarn.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Tassel Lengths

Reason: Inconsistent yarn wrapping or cutting leads to tassels of varying lengths, creating an uneven and unprofessional look.
Solution: Carefully measure and cut the yarn strands to ensure consistent lengths before assembling the tassel.

2. Loosely Tied Tassels

Reason: Insufficiently tightening the top knot of the tassel results in a floppy, unkempt appearance.
Solution: Securely tie the top knot multiple times with strong thread and trim any excess.

FAQs

What type of yarn is best for making tassels?
The best yarn for tassels is the same yarn you used for your knitting project, if possible! This ensures a color and texture match. If you don't have enough leftover, choose a similar weight and fiber content for a cohesive look. Avoid overly bulky yarns, as they can make the tassels too heavy.