This tutorial – HOW TO UNRAVEL A SWEATER TO RECYCLE THE YARN - needs no further comment from me. The pictures and directions are very clear and very easy to follow. Do pay attention to what she says about checking seams – if you don’t, you’ll waste time, money and end up all frazzled and covered in short bits of useless yarn (sometimes following directions isn’t on my mind if I’m intent on following a creative mission )

While you’re at the thrift store, check for knit and crocheted afghans and throws too – another good source of recyclable yarn.