The Importance of Dye Lots

Let’s talk about dye lots.


From Wikipedia: A dye lot is a record taken during the dyeing of yarn to identify yarn that received its coloration in the same vat at the same time. Yarn manufacturers assign each lot a unique identification number and stamp it on the label before shipping.


So, why are dye lots important to the average knitter/crocheter? Well, even though the next dye lot of a same colour may use the very same recipe for the colour, and the very same procedures, small changes in things like air temperature, humidity or dyeing time can result in a slightly different shade. Sometimes the difference is so small it really can’t be seen, at other times it is quite obvious. And there is really no way to tell how different the next dye lot will be – it depends on so many factors. As well, sometimes yarn from 2 different dye lots won’t look different at all while still in a ball or skein, but once you knit or crochet them up, suddenly you can see a definite line where one ball stops and the other starts. Possible disaster!



The best thing to do is to always try to buy more than enough yarn from one dye lot for your project - buying an extra ball can pay off in the long run. At Mary Maxim we strive to have only one dye lot per colour out on the shelves, we double check as we bag your purchase, and we have a very generous 6 month return policy for yarn. If you do end up with extra, though, and don’t feel like returning it, there are always the options of stash enhancement, another colour for your next afghan, a spare hat, or, who doesn’t love a new pair of mittens for Christmas!



What if the unthinkable has happened, and despite your best intentions and meticulous calculations, you need to buy extra yarn to finish your project, and there is nothing available in your dye lot! Don`t despair, and don`t throw that project into the UnFinished Objects pile! There are ways to deal with this. If your project consists of several pieces, you may be able to use the dye lots strategically. For multi-colour projects, another colour could also separate the dye lots so that the shade difference isn’t noticeable. And finally, you can blend the new dye lot in with the old, by alternately knitting or crocheting 2 rows with each different dye lot. The larger the area you do this for, the better the different shades will blend so that you don’t see a difference. At least 20-24 rows in total should do the trick.


We are always available to brainstorm ideas with you! Happy Crafting!