 Almost all yarn has a dye lot. Yarn is dyed in batches.
When a batch
is dyed, the dye lot number is assigned; you'll find this number on
the label. When the next batch is dyed, a new dye lot number is
assigned. Even though the same dyes are used, there may be noticeable
color variations.
Because of these variations, it's important that you always purchase
enough of the same dye lot in order to complete your project. Before
you leave the store, check and make sure the lots are the same. Just
because the yarn is on the same shelf, doesn't mean all the skeins are
from the same dye lot. If you're not sure you'll have enough, buy one
extra. Check the return policy of the store you're purchasing from.
Many allow returns of unused yarn within a certain time frame. If you
don't finish within that time and have one skein left over, just add it
to your stash. You will find a good use for it eventually (or so they
say!).
Occasionally, you'll find a yarn that does not have a dye lot; this
will be indicated on the label. A no dye lot yarn does not necessarily
mean, however, that all skeins will be exactly the same color. The yarn
is dyed in much bigger batches but eventually it's sold out and more
must be produced and this will be a different dye lot. So proceed with
caution.
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If you do run short, it's difficult, if not impossible, to
find more of
the same dye lot. The longer the amount of time that goes by, the more
difficult may will be. If you need more yarn for the trim of a project,
such as an edging of a throw, consider a contrasting color. If there's
no way around it and you can find more of the same color but not the
identical dye lot, take the original yarn with you (even if it's
already worked up in a project) to the store. You may be lucky enough
to find several different dye lots to choose from. If so, you'll notice
that some may be closer to the original than others. Look carefully at
the original and the lot you're considering in natural light if
possible (fluorescent lights can fool the eye). Go to the window of the
store or even ask permission to take it outside.
When you've made your choice and are ready to return to
knitting or
crocheting your project, work alternating rows with the old and new dye
lot (unravel the project to retrieve some of the old yarn if
necessary). This will lessen the noticeability of the contrast of the
two dye
lots.
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Editor's Tip:
Lucky for us, the internet age has made it easier to track
down yarn in specific dye lots. With a little determination and
patience, you may be able to contact other knitters & crocheters on
websites like Ravelry.com or Crochetville.org to see if they have the
same yarn in a specific dye lot.
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