Like New

I always talk about the cheapness of thrifted yarn, but I don't often mention condition as a factor. After all, most yarn that is donated is more of the old stash that was never used variety. Sometimes it does have a storage smell, or some soiling. But most of the time the yarn is in like-new beautiful condition. This is because most knitters and crocheters do store their supplies properly.

Every now and then I find a few skeins at my local thrifts that are in very good shape. But this bargain lot that arrived last April was in exceptionally pristine condition. In fact, it looked like it came directly from store shelves.

Here are the fifteen skeins in the bargain lot that I bid on and won. All of them are worth five to fifteen times the price I paid (which is why it's a bargain.)

The two skeins of cotton yarn. I've never won a lot in such great shape. I also received a lot of yarns I've never tried to use, so having that variety of fibers will let me try new patterns, like amigurumi made from cotton yarns.

Two bamboo and one silk/bamboo blend skeins. With cost of living soaring and my resolution to spend as little as possible in 2026 I can't waste a lot of cash buying exotic yarns that may not work for my projects. Thrifting them is better for my wallet and my frugal lifestyle.

These two skeins are an acrylic nylon blend, another type of yarn I've never tried out. Love the pretty colors, too.

Large skeins of acrylic are wonderful for blanket or throw projects, so I'm always happy to find these.

These are polyester yarns I've never tried. The whole lot is amazing, and in perfect shape, and just what I want to add to my stash. I've already used close to fifty skeins of thrifted yarn making throws this year, so I go through a lot.

Still, the numbers are important, too. I looked up every skein, and to purchase them retail would have cost me $152.92. Where can you buy yarn in this condition for $16.00 total (about $1.07 per skein)? Not even at the dollar store.