Knitting is a great hobby that allows you to create something beautiful from scratch. If you want to knit a big blanket, you’ll need some bulky yarn. What kind should you choose?
There are two main types of yarn: worsted and sport. The difference between them is their thickness. Sport yarns are thinner than worsted ones.
They are also usually softer, which means they don’t require much tension. On the other hand, worsted yarns are thicker and stronger. They are often recommended for sweaters or heavy blankets.
You can use both types of yarn in your project. For example, you can combine a worsted yarn with a sporty yarn for a unique effect. But keep in mind that if you’re knitting a thick sweater, you might prefer using a heavier yarn like wool.
You can find these yarns at most craft stores. Here in our guide, we’ve found some of the best oversized yarns to knit a nice chunky blanket.
1. FOHOMA Chunky Yarn
If you know anything about the yarn world then you’ll know that FOHOMA is probably one of the best quality yarns out there.
This is because they have been around for a long time and still produce high-quality yarns today. Their yarns are very soft and easy to work with. It’s perfect for making a chunky blanket.
Their yarns are made from 70 % wool and 30% synthetic fibers and come in different weights such as 4oz/100g, 6oz/150g, 8oz/200g, and 10oz/250g.
Don’t be put off by the synthetic blend, that’s what helps these yarns stay in shape and makes them easy to work with, without having to worry about the wool fraying. These yarns are excellent for making sweaters and blankets.
FOHOMA yarn comes in lots of different colors so there’s something for everyone. This chunky yarn is excellent for extreme knitters out there, however, it’s probably not the best choice for felting.
Pros
- Easy to work with
- Loads of colors
- Great quality
Cons
- Not good for felting
2. Merino Wool And Chunky Yarn
Merino Wool and Chunky Yarn is another popular type of yarn. These yarns are similar to FOHOMA but have slightly more stretch. However, this doesn’t mean that they aren’t suitable for creating a chunky blanket. In fact, this yarn makes an excellent choice for making a chunky sweater.
These yarns are made from 100% pure Australian merino wool and come in 3 different weights – 2oz/50g, 5oz/125g, and 7oz/190g.
Merino wool is known for its incredible warmth and comfort. As well as being used for clothing, it’s also used to make baby items, socks, and even bedding.
These yarns are ideal for making a chunky knitted blanket. They are highly durable and will last for years. You can get the same feeling of luxury while wearinga cozy sweater, again and again, and again.
Merino wool is one of the softest wools in the world and doesn’t irritate the skin. So it’s great if you’re knitting for someone with sensitive skin.
You can use any weight of yarn for your project. Just remember that the higher the weight, the harder and stiffer the yarn will become. Therefore, if you plan on knitting a bulky sweater, you should choose a yarn with a lower weight.
The only downside to these yarns is that they are quite expensive. However, if you want to create a warm and comfy blanket, this price tag isn’t going to deter you.
Pros
- Very soft
- Durable
- Good value for money
- Merino wool
Cons
- Expensive
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3. Home Yarns Pure Silk Chunky Yarn
This is another type of super soft yarn. Unlike the previous two options, this yarn has no wool content whatsoever. Instead, it’s made up entirely of silk. Although it sounds like a dream come true, it actually works really well.
It’s extremely lightweight and soft. This makes it perfect for creating a chunky sweater or blanket. The silk content means that it won’t feel heavy when worn. It also feels incredibly luxurious and comfortable.
It’s available in many different colors including black, white, blue, red, pink, purple, green and yellow. All of these colors look amazing together. If you’re looking for a colorful blanket, you can find this yarn in all sorts of shades.
Although this yarn is completely silk-based, it does contain some polyester. This makes it a little harder to dye than other types of yarn.
That said, it’s important to note that silk dyes differently from other materials. So you may need to experiment before getting started.
Another thing to consider is that this yarn tends to shrink a little bit after washing. But don’t worry, because it’s easy to fix. Simply steam the item and then lay it flat to dry.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Soft
- Colors are beautiful
- Silk based
Cons
- Shrinks a little bit
- Tricky to dye
4. Lion Brand Homespun Cotton Chunky Yarn
Cotton is another material that is often used to make blankets. However, unlike wool, cotton doesn’t work too well for creating a chunky knit. Even though it’s very soft, it just doesn’t hold shape well enough.
That said, there are some exceptions. One such exception is homespun cotton. This type of cotton is hand spun using traditional methods. It’s not machine-spun and therefore retains a lot of its natural character.
As a result, it holds its shape better than regular cotton. It’s also softer and more breathable than regular cotton. Because of this, it’s perfect for creating a chubby sweater or blanket.
Homespun wool is one of the best materials for making a chunky knit. It’s incredibly durable and strong. As a result, it’s great for creating a cozy blanket or sweater.
The fibers themselves are quite long so they create a nice dense fabric. They’re also quite warm, so this yarn will keep you cozy throughout the winter months.
The downside with this yarn is that it’s fairly expensive. It costs about $30 per skein. That’s a lot of cash for something as simple as a blanket.
However, if you’re willing to splurge, this is an excellent option. You get what you pay for and you know exactly how your final product will turn out… truly beautiful!
Unlike most cotton yarns, this particular brand of yarn contains no polyester. This means that it’s much easier to dye. In fact, you can even color it yourself!
If you’re looking for a bright colored blanket, you’ll be able to find this yarn in lots of different hues. It comes in both solid colors and variegated patterns.
One thing to keep in mind is that this yarn is pretty thick. So if you’re planning on knitting a large blanket, you might have to adjust your gauge.
Pros:
- Great for creating a chunky blanket
- Available in various colors
- Can be dyed by hand
- Homespun wool
Cons:
- Expensive
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5. Super Chunky Merino Yarn
Merino yarns are known for their incredible warmth and softness. The reason why people love them so much is that they’re extremely versatile.
They’re also highly absorbent and quick drying. These qualities mean that merino is an ideal choice for creating a chunky sweater or blanket.
This particular yarn is made from 100% pure merino wool. It’s also super soft and has a lovely sheen. It feels like velvet against your skin. Because of this, it’s a fantastic choice for creating a chubby blanket. It’s also suitable for use during the colder seasons.
Although merino is usually considered to be a luxury yarn, it’s actually quite affordable. In terms of sizing, this yarn is available in two main sizes. The first size is called DK (double knitting). It measures approximately 4.5 mm wide.
The second size is called worsted. It measures approximately 5.5mm wide. Both these sizes are good for creating a chunky knitted project. However, the larger size is probably better suited to creating a blanket.
Pros
- 100% Merino wool
- Soft
- Easy to work with
- Lots of colors
- Lots of sizes
Cons
- Merino wool is delicate
6. Himalaya Dolphin Baby Yarn
Don’t be alarmed by the name, Himalaya Dolphin Baby yarn actually has nothing to do with dolphin babies. No cute mammals were harmed in the process of marking this chunky yarn.
Himalaya dolphin baby yarn is the name for a very soft type of yarn. It is certified under Oeko- Tex Class 1.
The Oeko-Tex classification system is used to classify which fabrics are safest for people and free of harmful chemicals.
Himalaya dolphin baby yarn is class 1, which means it’s so safe to use that it’s excellent for baby clothes.
The primary fibers in Himalaya dolphin baby yarn are made up of polyester. This particular brand also contains some velvet chenille for texture and softness.
Because of how soft and delicate Himalaya dolphin baby yarn is, it’s a little harder to wash than other yarns.
So if you choose to use this incredibly fluffy yarn for your chunky blanket, be aware that you won’t be able to throw it in your regular washing load.
Himalaya dolphin baby yarn should be machine washed on the wool/sensitive setting under 30 C max, with a wool-specific detergent. Or hand washed with said detergent.
Pros
- Very soft
- Great for delicate skin
- Affordable
- Oeko-Tex Class 1
Cons
- Delicate to wash
7. Red Heart Super Saver Soft & Sturdy Chunky Wool Yarn
This yarn is perfect for beginners who want to create their own chunky blanket. It’s also great for those who don’t mind spending a bit more money on their yarn. It’s not as expensive as most of the other options listed here. But it still offers a lot of value for money.
It’s made from 75% acrylic and 25% wool; this can vary depending on the color, and can be as much as up to 100% acrylic. This makes it extra durable and strong. It’s also extremely soft, making it ideal for creating a chunky blanket.
Red heart super saver soft & sturdy chunky wool yarn is one of the few brands that offer a variety of different weights.
These include double knitting, light worsted, heavy worsted, bulky, and even sport weight. If you’re looking for an economical option, then this is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Super soft
- Durable
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Lots of weights
Cons
- Not as cheap as others
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8. Rowan Pure Merino Big Wool
Rowan Pure Merino Big Wool is another popular choice for knitters. It’s a relatively inexpensive yarn. It’s also a very versatile yarn. You can use it to create any kind of project.
Pure merino is a natural fiber. Pure merino big wool is a blend of pure merino and cotton. It’s available in several colors, including white, black, blue, red, green, brown, and gray.
It comes from sheep’s wool. It’s often referred to as the king of fibers because it’s so versatile. It works well with many types of needles. And it’s easy to care for.
The only downside to using pure merino big wool is that it doesn’t have much elasticity. Which means that it will stretch out when knitted. That being said, it’s still quite useful for creating a chunky blankie.
The price of this yarn varies depending on the color. Some colors cost less than $10 per skein while others cost over $50. However, you’ll find that the prices are always reasonable. It’s also widely available at craft stores, department stores, and online retailers.
Pros
- Versatile
- Easy to care for
- Cheap
Cons
- Stretches easily
9. Cascade Pacific Chunky Yarns
Cascade’s Pacific collection classic wool is a beautiful yarn. It’s a luxurious yarn that’s suitable for both men and women. It’s also a good quality yarn. It has a nice sheen to it. And it’s available in a wide range of colors.
Cascade collection classical wool is a premium yarn. It’s made from 100% wool. It’s also a fairly thick yarn. It’s available in multiple different thicknesses.
One is a 4 ply yarn. The other is a 6 ply yarn. And there’s also a 12 ply for the chunkiest wool. All of these come in a number of colors. They’re also sold separately. So you can buy them individually if you prefer.
If you’re looking for a yarn that’s going to last, then this is the right yarn for you. It’s also suitable for anyone who wants a luxury yarn that’s easy to use. It’s a great yarn for creating a chunky sweater or blanket.
You can get your hands on this yarn by visiting your local craft store. Or you can purchase it online.
Pros
- Luxury
- Premium
- Wide range of colors
Cons
- Expensive
10. Bernat Softee Chunky Yarn
Bernat Softee Chunky Yarn is a popular yarn. It’s a durable yarn that’s suitable for beginners. It’s also a reasonably priced yarn. This makes it perfect for those who want to make a chunky blanket but don’t want to spend too much money.
This yarn is made from 100% acrylic. It’s also a super washable yarn, suitable for machine washing. But it does tend to shrink after washing, so you might want to wash it by hand or perhaps just stick to gentle machine washes.
It’s available in a number of different colors — there are over 30 to choose from. Most of them are bright colors, but you can also find some muted tones and pastels. These include pink, purple, yellow, orange, light blue, and more.
It’s a very soft yarn. It’s ideal for knitting a chunky baby blanket or an afghan. It’s also suitable to knit socks. You just need to be careful not to pull too hard on the stitches.
Pros
- Soft
- Durable
- Washable
Cons
- May need handwashing
Buyer’s Guide
It can be tricky trying to figure out everything you need to know about chunky yarn, especially when you’re a newbie knitter. That’s where our buyer’s guide comes in. Here we detail all the gossip when it comes to buying the best yarn for your project.
Project
When it comes to picking the right yarn for your next project, you should always start with what you want to create. Then work backwards to determine which type of yarn will suit your project best.
For example, if you’re making a baby blanket, you’d probably want something that’s soft and comfortable. If you’re making a pair of socks, you’d want something warm and cozy.
The same goes for any other project. You should always consider your own personal preferences before choosing a yarn.
Yarn Type
There are two main types of yarn. Each one has its pros and cons. Let’s take a look at each one.
Plain Yarn
Plain yarn is simply regular old cotton or wool. It’s usually thicker than sport weight yarn. Plain yarn tends to stretch quite a bit. Which means you may have to size up your needles.
However, plain yarn is cheap and readily available. Plus, it doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. It’s also easy to wash and dry.
Sport Weight Yarn
Sport weight yarn is similar to plain yarn except it’s thinner. It’s usually between 3 and 5 times as thick as plain yarn.
Sport weight yarn is often used for sweaters and blankets. It’s also good for projects like mittens and gloves. Because it stretches less than plain yarn, you’ll only need smaller needles.
However, sport weight yarn is slightly more expensive than plain yarn. Plus, it requires a little more care and attention. It needs to be washed regularly. Otherwise, it can develop lumps.
Which Is Best?
Both types of yarn have their advantages and disadvantages. The choice really depends on what you’re looking to achieve.
If you want a soft, comfy blanket, then go for plain yarn. However, if you want a warmer, cozier blanket, then opt for sport weight yarn.
You could even combine the two. Use some plain yarn for the body of your blanket and use sport weight yarn for the border.
Color
Another important factor to consider when choosing a yarn is color.
Most people prefer to stick with solid colors. They’re easier to match and blend together. Plus, they’re cheaper than variegated yarns.
Variegated yarns come in many different shades. These shades change depending on how you move the yarn around.
They’re great for adding interest to your finished product. But they’re also trickier to match.
Plus, they’re more expensive than solid colored yarn.
So, if you’re planning on using a variegated yarn, make sure you do your research first. Find out whether the yarn is machine washable or hand-washable. And find out how much extra time it takes to dye the yarn.
This way, you won’t end up wasting money by purchasing a yarn that isn’t worth it.
Needles
One final thing to think about is the size of your needles.
Since most yarns tend to stretch, you’ll need larger needles to keep them from stretching. This makes it harder to get accurate stitch counts.
To avoid this problem, choose a needle size that matches the thickness of the yarn. So, if you’re working with a 4 mm (US 1/2) knitting needle, work with a 4 mm (1/2) knitting needle.
If you’re unsure which size to pick, just try both sizes. Pick whichever one feels better.
That said, there are exceptions. Some yarns don’t stretch at all. In these cases, you can use whatever size needles you want.
For example, if you’re working a worsted weight yarn, you can use double pointed needles instead of straight needles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to oversized yarn.
What Are Oversized Yarns?
A: Oversized yarns are thicker than regular yarn. They’re usually made from wool or acrylic. They’re often used for knitted items such as afghans, blankets, and scarves.
How Do I Know Which Type Of Over-Sized Yarn To Buy?
A: You should buy oversized yarn based on the type of project you plan on making. If you want a warm, cozy blanket, then opt for plain yarn.
If you want something warmer, then go for sport weight yarn. Or, if you want something cozier, then go for a variegated yarn.
Can I Wash My Oversize Yarn
Oversized yarns are a fun new option for knitters. It’s easy to experiment with different patterns and designs.
Much like any yarn, oversized yarn should be washed with care. You should pay attention to the composition of the fabric, and wash accordingly. Gentle and hand washes are the most suitable way to keep your garments and items crafted from oversized yarn nice and clean.
How Long Does It Take To Dry An Oversize Yarn?
A: Since oversized yarns are thicker than standard yarn, they dry slower. Even so, it only takes a few days to completely dry an oversized yarn. In some instances, it won’t even take that long.
But, because of its thickness, you may have trouble finding the perfect spot to hang it.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! The best over-sized yarns for knitting the chunkiest of sweaters! We hope we helped you figure out which one to get and cleared up any questions you might have had!
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