There’s nothing quite like snuggling up under a super soft, chunky blanket on a cold night. Making your own chunky blanket is easier than you might think, and it’s a super satisfying project. The key is finding the right yarn – one that’s soft, easy to work with, and comes in the colors you love. Some yarns shed like crazy, while others are stiff and difficult to manage. So, I’ve rounded up my top five favorite chunky yarns for blankets, based on my own experience and what I’ve heard from other crafters.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Bernat Baby Blanket Yarn: Super soft, ideal for baby blankets, machine washable.
- Mewaii Chunky Knit Yarn: Versatile, comes in a wide array of colors, good stitch definition.
- Big Loop Yarn Merino Wool: Luxurious merino wool, creates a high-end blanket, minimal shedding.
- Premier Yarns Sweet Roll Chunky: Self-striping yarn, creates beautiful color gradients, easy care.
- LoveShackFancy x Lion Brand Wild Child Yarn: Fun, playful textures, adds unique visual interest to blankets.
Top 5 Best Chunky Yarn For Blankets
Bernat Baby Blanket Yarn
Bernat Baby Blanket Yarn is a super soft, chenille-type yarn that’s perfect for making baby blankets, but it works great for throws for adults too! It’s incredibly plush and gentle on the skin, making it a favorite for sensitive individuals. The yarn is also machine washable and dryable, which is a huge plus for easy care.
Pros:
- ✅ Incredibly soft and plush texture
- ✅ Machine washable and dryable
- ✅ Wide range of pastel and vibrant colors
Cons:
- ❌ Can be prone to shedding slightly
- ❌ Stitches can be difficult to see due to the plush texture
- ❌ Can be a bit bulky to work with on smaller projects
Verdict: This yarn is ideal for anyone looking for a super soft, easy-care option, especially for baby blankets. The softness is unmatched, making it a cozy choice.
Mewaii Chunky Knit Yarn
Mewaii Chunky Knit Yarn is a versatile, easy-to-use yarn that’s great for beginners. It is a cotton tube yarn that comes in a wide variety of colors and is relatively inexpensive. The stitch definition is quite good with this yarn, making it a good choice for different patterns.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to work with, great for beginners
- ✅ Wide range of colors available
- ✅ Good stitch definition
Cons:
- ❌ Can pill after washing
- ❌ Not as soft as some other options
- ❌ Can be a bit heavy for larger blankets
Verdict: This yarn is a great all-around choice for those who want a balance of affordability, ease of use, and color options. It’s a good starting point for your chunky blanket journey.
Big Loop Yarn Merino Wool
Big Loop Yarn’s Merino Wool is a luxurious option for creating a high-end, super cozy blanket. Made from 100% merino wool, this yarn is incredibly soft, warm, and has a beautiful drape. I used this to make a lap blanket for my mom, and she loves it! The natural fibers make it breathable and comfortable year-round.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptionally soft and warm
- ✅ Minimal shedding compared to other wool yarns
- ✅ Creates a luxurious, high-end look and feel
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than synthetic options
- ❌ Requires gentle hand washing
- ❌ Can be a bit delicate, requiring careful handling
Verdict: This yarn is perfect for those looking to create a truly special, heirloom-quality blanket. The investment is worth it for the unparalleled softness and warmth.
Premier Yarns Sweet Roll Chunky
Premier Yarns Sweet Roll Chunky is a self-striping yarn that creates beautiful color gradients without having to change skeins. This yarn is made from acrylic, so it’s machine washable and dryable. I love how easy it is to get a beautiful, multi-colored blanket without all the extra work.
Pros:
- ✅ Self-striping, creating beautiful color gradients
- ✅ Easy care, machine washable and dryable
- ✅ Affordable option for multi-colored blankets
Cons:
- ❌ Acrylic can feel less luxurious than natural fibers
- ❌ Color changes are pre-determined, limiting customization
- ❌ Can sometimes have knots or joins within the roll
Verdict: This yarn is a great option for those who want a colorful, low-maintenance blanket without the hassle of changing colors. It’s perfect for adding a pop of fun to any room.
LoveShackFancy x Lion Brand Wild Child Yarn
The LoveShackFancy x Lion Brand Wild Child Yarn is a unique and playful yarn that adds texture and visual interest to your blankets. It is a wool-blend yarn with printed designs and pompoms attached. It is definitely a statement yarn, and creates a one-of-a-kind blanket.
Pros:
- ✅ Unique textures and embellishments
- ✅ Adds a fun, playful element to blankets
- ✅ Creates a visually interesting, one-of-a-kind project
Cons:
- ❌ Can be challenging to work with due to the embellishments
- ❌ May not be suitable for those who prefer a more uniform look
- ❌ More expensive than standard chunky yarns
Verdict: This yarn is perfect for those who want to create a truly unique and eye-catching blanket. It’s a great choice for adding personality and whimsy to your home décor.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right chunky yarn for your blanket can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Here are a few key things to consider before making your purchase:
- Fiber Content: Consider what feel you want for your blanket. Wool is warm and luxurious, but requires more care. Acrylic is easy to care for and budget-friendly. Cotton is breathable and good for warmer climates.
- Yarn Weight and Thickness: Make sure the yarn is truly “chunky” or “super chunky” for the desired effect. Check the yarn label for the recommended needle/hook size to ensure it matches your project.
- Color and Pattern: Think about the color scheme of your room and choose yarn that complements it. Solid colors are classic, while self-striping or variegated yarns add visual interest.
- Care Instructions: Consider your lifestyle and how much time you’re willing to spend on care. Machine washable and dryable yarns are ideal for busy individuals, while delicate fibers may require hand washing.
- Yardage: Estimate the amount of yarn you’ll need based on the size of your blanket and the yarn’s gauge. It’s always better to buy a little extra to avoid running out mid-project.
FAQs
Q: How much chunky yarn do I need for a blanket?
A: It depends on the size of the blanket and the yarn’s thickness. A good rule of thumb is to estimate around 1000-1500 yards for a throw blanket (50×60 inches). Check the yarn label for gauge information to get a more accurate estimate.
Q: What’s the best way to care for a chunky knit blanket?
A: Always follow the care instructions on the yarn label. Machine washable yarns can be washed on a gentle cycle and tumble dried on low. Hand-wash delicate fibers in cool water and lay flat to dry.
Q: Can I use arm knitting with chunky yarn?
A: Yes, many chunky yarns are perfect for arm knitting! Look for yarns that are soft and easy to manipulate. Be aware that arm-knitted blankets tend to be looser and may stretch over time.
Q: What size needles should I use for chunky yarn?
A: The recommended needle size will be listed on the yarn label. Generally, sizes US 13 (9mm) to US 19 (15mm) are common for chunky yarns. Adjust the needle size to achieve the desired gauge.
Conclusion
Choosing the right chunky yarn can make all the difference in your blanket project. Whether you prioritize softness, easy care, or unique textures, there’s a perfect yarn out there for you. So, grab your needles (or your arms!), pick your favorite color, and get ready to create a cozy masterpiece that you’ll love for years to come. Enjoy!
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