Running out of room for your growing yarn collection? You're not alone! As crafters, we love our yarn, but finding space for it all can be challenging, especially in small living areas. The good news? You don't need expensive storage systems or a dedicated craft room to keep your stash organized.
In this guide, I'll share 15 budget-friendly DIY yarn storage ideas perfect for small spaces. These solutions use inexpensive materials—many of which you might already have at home—and can be completed in just a few hours. Let's transform your yarn chaos into beautifully organized crafting bliss!
5 Space-Saving Wall-Mounted Storage Ideas
When floor space is limited, look up! Your walls offer valuable storage real estate that keeps your yarn visible, accessible, and beautifully displayed.
1. Customizable Pegboard System
Pegboards are incredibly for yarn storage in small spaces. You can customize the hook placement to accommodate different yarn sizes and rearrange as your collection changes.
What You'll Need:
- Pegboard panel (available at hardware stores for $15-25)
- Pegboard hooks in various sizes
- Wall anchors and screws
- Paint (optional for customization)
2. Floating Shelves with Dowel Dividers
Floating shelves with wooden dowels create separated sections that prevent yarn balls from rolling around while keeping them visible and accessible.
To create this system, install basic floating shelves and add evenly spaced wooden dowels as dividers. This keeps your yarn visible while preventing it from rolling off the shelf. The dividers also help you organize by color or project.
3. Tension Rod Yarn Holder
For under $10, you can create a simple yet effective yarn storage solution using tension rods in a window frame, closet, or between bookshelves.
Simply install 2-3 tension rods horizontally and hang your yarn skeins over them. This method keeps yarn visible and accessible while taking advantage of otherwise unused space.
4. Repurposed Rain Gutter Shelving
Vinyl rain gutters make surprisingly perfect yarn shelves! They're curved to keep yarn from rolling off, inexpensive (under $5 per section), and can be cut to any length.
Mount them securely to your wall with brackets, and you'll have a sleek, modern storage solution that keeps yarn dust-free and visible.
5. Hanging Macramé Yarn Organizer
If you already enjoy fiber crafts, put those skills to work by creating a hanging macramé organizer for your yarn. This project costs next to nothing if you use leftover cord or twine.
The open design allows air circulation (important for yarn storage) while creating a beautiful wall display that doubles as décor. Plus, you can customize the size to fit your space perfectly.
Ready to maximize your wall space?
These wall-mounted solutions can transform even the smallest corner into an organized yarn haven. Choose the option that best fits your space and style!
Start your wall storage project today!5 Clever Repurposed Household Items for Yarn Storage
No need to buy expensive storage containers! These creative solutions repurpose everyday items you might already have at home.
1. Door-Hanging Shoe Organizer
Clear pocket shoe organizers are perfect for yarn storage! Each pocket holds 1-2 skeins, and the clear plastic lets you see your entire collection at a glance.
Hang it on the back of a door or inside a closet for instant, space-saving storage. This solution costs around $10 and can hold 20+ skeins depending on the organizer size.
2. Coffee Can Yarn Dispensers
Don't toss those empty coffee cans! With a few simple modifications, they become perfect yarn dispensers that stack neatly on a shelf.
How to Make Coffee Can Yarn Dispensers:
- Clean and dry empty coffee cans
- Cut a small hole in the plastic lid
- Place a yarn ball inside with the end pulled through the hole
- Decorate the cans with fabric, paper, or paint if desired
- Stack or arrange on a shelf
3. Wine Rack Yarn Storage
That unused wine rack is actually perfect for storing yarn! Each cubby holds a skein or two, keeping them visible and preventing tangling.
Look for wine racks at thrift stores (often under $10) or use one you already have. Tabletop versions work well in small spaces, while wall-mounted racks save even more room.
4. Hanging Fruit Baskets
Three-tier hanging fruit baskets make excellent yarn storage that takes up zero floor or shelf space. Simply hang from a ceiling hook and organize yarn by color or weight in each basket.
These baskets allow for good air circulation and typically cost $10-15. The open design makes it easy to see and grab exactly what you need.
5. PVC Pipe Yarn Cubbies
With some inexpensive PVC pipe from the hardware store, you can create custom yarn cubbies that fit your exact space requirements.
Cut 4" diameter PVC pipe into 6-8" sections, arrange in a pattern that fits your space, and secure with zip ties or glue. The entire project costs $15-20 and creates a modern, customizable storage solution.
Upcycling saves money and space!
These repurposed storage ideas not only organize your yarn but also give new life to items you already have. Which household item will you transform first?
Start repurposing today!5 Smart Furniture Hacks for Yarn Storage
These clever furniture modifications and dual-purpose solutions maximize your storage without requiring additional space.
1. Under-Bed Storage Boxes
The space under your bed offers valuable storage real estate! Shallow plastic containers slide easily underneath and can hold dozens of yarn skeins.
Look for containers specifically designed for under-bed use (usually $10-15 each). Clear containers make it easy to see what's inside without pulling them out completely.
2. Ottoman with Hidden Storage
Storage ottomans serve triple duty: seating, footrest, and yarn storage! Many affordable options ($30-50) offer surprising capacity for your stash.
Choose a model with a hinged lid for easy access. Some even come with interior dividers to help keep your yarn organized by color or project.
3. Bookshelf Yarn Display
Transform a narrow bookshelf into a yarn display by adding tension rods between shelves to prevent yarn from rolling off.
This hack works with bookshelves of any size, making it perfect for small spaces. The tension rods cost just a few dollars and can be adjusted as needed.
4. Drawer Dividers for Yarn Organization
Turn any drawer into organized yarn storage with simple cardboard dividers. This solution costs nothing if you use materials you already have at home.
DIY Drawer Dividers Tutorial:
- Measure the height and width of your drawer
- Cut cardboard strips to fit (cereal boxes work well)
- Arrange in a grid pattern, interlocking where they cross
- Place one skein in each compartment
- Label sections by color or yarn weight if desired
5. Hanging Closet Organizer Hack
Fabric hanging closet organizers can be repurposed for yarn storage, especially in small spaces without room for additional furniture.
These organizers typically cost $10-15 and offer multiple compartments for sorting yarn by color, weight, or project. They take up minimal space and can be hidden behind a closet door when not in use.
Budget-Friendly Materials for DIY Yarn Storage
Creating effective yarn storage doesn't have to be expensive. Here are some affordable materials to consider for your DIY projects:
Dollar Store Finds:
- Plastic baskets and bins ($1-3 each)
- Tension curtain rods ($1-2 each)
- Command hooks for hanging storage
- Clear shoe boxes for individual projects
- Mesh laundry bags for yarn washing/storage
Upcycled Containers:
- Coffee cans with lids
- Oatmeal containers (cylindrical cardboard)
- Shoebox dividers
- Glass jars for small yarn balls
- Cardboard boxes reinforced with decorative tape
Remember that many effective storage solutions can be created with items you already have at home. Before buying new materials, look around for containers, baskets, or furniture that could be repurposed.
Money-Saving Tip: Check thrift stores for baskets, shelving, and containers at a fraction of retail prices. Many can be refreshed with a simple coat of paint to match your décor.
Step-by-Step Tutorials for 3 Innovative Storage Solutions
Let's dive deeper into three of the most innovative and practical DIY yarn storage solutions for small spaces.
1. Hanging Macramé Yarn Organizer
Materials:
- 100 feet of macramé cord or thick cotton rope
- Wooden dowel (24-36 inches long)
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Strong wall hook
Instructions:
- Cut eight 10-foot lengths of cord
- Fold each cord in half and attach to the wooden dowel using larks head knots
- Create a square knot pattern for the first 6 inches
- Separate cords into groups of four and continue knotting to create "shelves"
- Add horizontal support cords every 8-10 inches
- Finish with a decorative fringe at the bottom
- Hang from a secure wall hook
- Place yarn skeins in the openings between knots
2. PVC Pipe Yarn Cubbies
Materials:
- 4" diameter PVC pipe (10-foot length, approximately $10)
- PVC pipe cutter or hacksaw
- Sandpaper
- Strong zip ties or PVC cement
- Measuring tape and marker
- Wall mounting hardware (optional)
Instructions:
- Measure and mark the PVC pipe in 6-8 inch sections
- Cut the pipe into equal sections using a pipe cutter or hacksaw
- Sand the cut edges to remove any sharpness
- Arrange the pipe sections in your desired configuration
- Secure the pipes together using zip ties through drilled holes or PVC cement
- Allow to dry completely if using cement
- Mount to wall if desired, or place on a shelf
- Place one yarn skein in each pipe section
3. Tension Rod Yarn Display
Materials:
- 2-4 tension rods (sized to fit your space)
- S-hooks (optional for hanging baskets)
- Small baskets for notions (optional)
Instructions:
- Identify a suitable space (between bookshelves, in a window frame, or inside a closet)
- Measure the width of the space
- Purchase tension rods that extend slightly longer than your measurement
- Install the first tension rod near the top of your space
- Add additional rods, spacing them 8-10 inches apart
- Hang yarn skeins over the rods, organizing by color or type
- Add S-hooks and small baskets for storing notions if desired
Tips for Categorizing Yarn in Limited Spaces
Even with the best storage solutions, organizing your yarn effectively makes a huge difference in usability and appearance. Here's how to categorize your stash when space is tight:
By Color:
- Arrange in rainbow order for visual appeal
- Group similar shades together to maximize impact
- Use color as the primary organization method for visual crafters
- Consider clear storage to showcase the colors
By Weight/Type:
- Separate by weight (fingering, worsted, bulky, etc.)
- Group by fiber content (wool, cotton, acrylic)
- Use labeled containers or sections
- Ideal for pattern-focused crafters
Space-Saving Organization Hacks:
- Use vacuum bags for seasonal or less-used yarn (but don't store long-term)
- Wind yarn into cakes which stack more efficiently than loose skeins
- Store pattern and yarn together in project bags for WIPs (Works In Progress)
- Use hanging tags or labels instead of bulky boxes for categorization
- Implement a "one in, one out" policy to keep your stash manageable
"The key to organizing yarn in small spaces isn't just about storage solutions—it's about being intentional with your collection. Keep what you love and will use, and organize it in a way that makes sense for your crafting style."
Safety Considerations for Long-Term Yarn Storage
Proper storage doesn't just keep your yarn organized—it protects your investment. Here are important safety considerations for storing yarn long-term:
Yarn Storage Dos
- Store in breathable containers when possible
- Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading
- Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets as natural moth repellents
- Label yarn with fiber content and care instructions
- Store in a temperature-controlled environment
Yarn Storage Don'ts
- Don't store in airtight containers for extended periods
- Avoid damp basements or humid areas
- Don't compress yarn too tightly for long periods
- Avoid storing directly on concrete floors
- Don't store near heating vents or radiators
Pest Prevention Tips:
Natural fibers like wool and silk are particularly vulnerable to moths and other pests. Protect your yarn with these strategies:
- Inspect new yarn before adding to your stash
- Freeze new-to-you yarn for 24-48 hours to kill any potential pests
- Use cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or commercial moth repellents
- Periodically check stored yarn for signs of pests
- Keep storage areas clean and dust-free
Important: If you discover pests in your yarn, immediately isolate affected skeins, freeze them for at least 48 hours, then clean your storage area thoroughly before returning unaffected yarn.
Transform Your Small Space into an Organized Yarn Haven
With these 15 budget-friendly DIY yarn storage ideas, you can transform even the smallest space into an organized crafting haven. Remember that effective storage isn't just about containing your yarn—it's about creating a system that inspires your creativity and makes crafting more enjoyable.
Start with one or two solutions that address your most pressing storage needs, then expand your system as time and budget allow. The beauty of these DIY approaches is their flexibility—you can customize, combine, and adapt them to fit your unique space and crafting style.
Ready to organize your yarn stash?
Which of these DIY storage solutions will you try first? Start with materials you already have on hand for a no-cost organization upgrade today!
Get started on your yarn organization journey!FAQs
How do I keep my yarn from getting tangled?
Store each skein or ball in its own container, pocket, or zipped bag. Use baskets, jars, or even ziplock bags so yarns don’t rub against each other. Sorting by project or color also prevents tangles and helps you grab what you need quickly.
Is it safe to store yarn in plastic bins?
Yes, plastic bins are great for keeping yarn dust-free and safe from pets. Make sure your bins are dry and clean before putting yarn inside. If you live in a humid area, consider adding silica gel packets to absorb moisture and prevent mold.
What’s the best way to organize a large yarn stash when I have little space?
Go vertical with stackable bins, shelves, or hanging organizers. Under-bed storage works well for overflow or out-of-season yarn. Using clear containers helps you see your stash and prevents buying duplicates.
How often should I declutter my yarn collection?
Check your stash every few months, or after finishing big projects. Donate, swap, or repurpose yarn you’re not likely to use. Regular decluttering keeps your space tidy and your collection inspiring.
Can I store yarn outside of my craft room?
Absolutely! Use baskets in your living room, kitchen containers in your pantry, or storage ottomans that double as furniture. Just keep yarn away from direct sunlight, moisture, and places where pets might reach.
What should I do with leftover yarn scraps?
Save scraps in a designated jar or basket. Use them for small projects, stuffing, or as color pops in future designs. If you accumulate too many, consider donating to schools or community groups.
How do I keep my yarn organized while working on multiple projects?
Use project bags, caddies, or separate bins for each project in progress. Clip the pattern or notes to the container, so everything you need stays together until you’re done.
Does color-coordinating my yarn matter for storage?
Color-coordinating isn’t essential, but it makes finding yarn easier and can inspire new projects. Plus, it adds a cheerful look to your storage area.
What’s the most affordable yarn storage method?
Repurpose what you have—baskets, bowls, shoe organizers, or jars. Visit thrift shops or dollar stores for extra containers. DIY options like PVC cubbies or pegboards can be made for just a few dollars.
Christa Patel is a passionate crochet designer, educator, and the creator of Secret Yarnery. She has helped thousands of crocheters around the world get organized, inspired, and confident in their craft. With years of hands-on experience, Christa shares real-life tips for making crochet easier—especially for those with limited space and busy schedules.
Through her blog, YouTube channel, and crochet community, Christa delivers budget-friendly ideas, storage hacks, and creative guidance. She believes in using what you have, enjoying the process, and turning even small corners into joyful craft zones.
Follow Christa for more actionable advice on storing yarn, setting up your crochet workspace, and making the most out of every project. Her down-to-earth tips are designed to help crafters stay motivated and keep yarn time stress-free.