Ever wondered why the ball of yarn you just bought looks slightly different from the one you bought last week, even though they’re the same colour? It’s likely due to dye lots!

Dye lots are batches of yarn that are dyed in the same vat at the same time. While the goal is to produce consistent colours, variations can occur due to factors such as the amount of dye used, water temperature, and even the natural variations in the fibres themselves.

Shown above, two different dye lots of Frank Ochre. One skein has a lighter tone to it.

Why do dye lots matter?

When working on a large project that requires multiple skeins of the same colour, it’s important to be mindful of dye lots. If the skeins are from different dye lots, there’s a risk that the colours won’t match perfectly. This can be especially noticeable in projects with large blocks of colour or stripes.

If you’re planning a project that requires multiple skeins of the same colour, it’s best to purchase them all at once to ensure they’re from the same dye lot. However, if you’re unable to do this, here are some tips:

• Check the label: Many yarn labels will indicate the dye lot number.
• Check our website: On our website, you will be able to see the drop down available to check what dye lots we have in stock
• Consider a larger project: If you’re concerned about dye lot variations, you might want to choose a smaller project that requires fewer balls of yarn.

While dye lot variations can be a challenge, they can also add a unique and interesting element to your projects. For example, you might intentionally choose balls from different dye lots to create a textured or ombré effect. If you do find yourself at a loss with different dye lots, why not alternate them so there’s less chance of a huge clash in colour?

So, the next time you’re shopping for yarn, keep dye lots in mind. With a little planning and creativity, you can create beautiful projects that showcase the unique beauty of yarn.