The Best Chunky Yarn for Crochet Blankets

Let’s delve into the realm of the best chunky yarns!

For crochet or knitting enthusiasts, selecting the right yarn is crucial. I enjoy crafting chunky knit blankets—a timeless creation that continues to capture hearts.

In this blog post, I’ll show you how to make a beautiful hand-knit chunky blanket using just a few basic techniques. But first, we’ll talk about materials. I’ve got all the details if you’re looking for the best chunky yarn for crochet blankets.

Get ready to snuggle up with something special!

Many of us have either encountered or crafted a chunky knit blanket. I want to share a bit about these fabulous blankets for those who haven’t. 

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What is a Chunky Blanket?

A chunky knit blanket is a type of blanket that is crafted using thick and bulky yarn, resulting in a visually distinctive and cozy appearance.

The term “chunky” refers to the thickness of the yarn, which is typically larger than standard yarn sizes.

These blankets are characterized by oversized stitches and plush texture, creating a warm and inviting feel. Chunky knit blankets are often handmade through knitting or crocheting techniques, and they have gained popularity for their stylish and luxurious aesthetic.

They are versatile, providing both a functional and decorative element to home decor, and are known for their comfort and warmth. 

What is Chunky Yarn?

Chunky and bulky yarns are thicker and heavier yarn options, distinguished by their larger individual fibers. These yarns are characterized by their substantial weight and create a quick and bold impact in knitting or crocheting projects.

What is the Best Yarn for a Chunky Blanket?

When selecting yarn for a chunky blanket, consider factors such as the desired texture, warmth, and the climate where the blanket will be used. Additionally, be sure to check the care instructions on the yarn label to ensure it aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. Ultimately, the best yarn for your chunky blanket is the one that meets your specific needs and complements your personal style.

What Type of Chunky Yarn Should I Use?

When making a cozy hand-knit chunky blanket, the type of yarn you choose can make all the difference. Trust me; I’ve been there, and selecting the best yarn is crucial for achieving that perfect result. In this section, I’ll share some insights on different yarns and highlight the best chunky yarns to use for crocheted blankets.

Merino Wool:

If you want to go for a luxurious feel, Merino wool is the way to go. It’s incredibly soft and warm, perfect for those snuggly blankets. However, remember that it might require more care, as some Merino wool yarn is hand wash only.

Wool also provides many other benefits. 

1. Natural Warmth: Wool provides excellent insulation, keeping you warm and cozy in cooler temperatures.
2. Durability: Wool is known for its resilience, making blankets crafted from it more durable and likely to maintain quality over time.
3. Moisture Management: Wool’s inherent breathability and moisture-wicking properties help regulate body temperature and keep you dry and comfortable.
4. Environmentally Friendly: Wool is a natural fiber that biodegrades over time, making it an eco-friendly choice for those concerned about the environment.

Chenille Yarn: 

 Chenille yarn has a velvety texture that adds extra softness to your blanket. It’s soft and plush, making it an excellent choice for a chunky blanket for curling up with a good book.

Here is a list of some of the benefits of chenille yarn.

1. Luxurious Softness: Chenille yarn is renowned for its velvety and plush texture, providing a luxurious and exceptionally soft feel to the blanket.
2. Durability: Chenille yarn is often durable and resistant to wear, ensuring the longevity of the blanket despite regular use.
3. All-Season Comfort: Chenille blankets offer warmth without excessive weight, making them comfortable year-round. Their breathable nature allows for cozy use in colder seasons and ensures comfort in milder temperatures.
4. Machine Washable: 
   Several chenille yarns can be machine-washed. However, it is crucial to refer to the care instructions provided by the manufacturer on the yarn label or packaging, as the recommended washing guidelines may differ.

Acrylic Yarn:

 Acrylic yarn is a great choice for beginners. It’s budget-friendly, easy to find, and comes in various colors. Plus, it’s machine washable, making it a practical choice for blankets with a lot of use.

Here are some benefits of using acrylic yarn.

1. Lightweight: Acrylic yarn is lightweight, making it comfortable for crafting and using the finished product. Blankets made with acrylic yarn are warm without being overly heavy.
2. Hypoallergenic: Acrylic yarn is synthetic and hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for individuals with allergies to natural fibers like wool. It is soft against the skin and suitable for those with sensitivities.
3. Easy Care: Acrylic yarn is typically machine washable and can withstand regular use and cleaning without losing its shape or color. This easy-care feature makes it practical for everyday items like blankets.
4. Durability: Acrylic yarn is known for its durability and resistance to fading, stretching, and mildew. This makes it a reliable choice for projects that need to withstand regular wear and tear, such as blankets.

Cotton Yarn:

For those living in warmer climates or prefer a lighter feel, cotton yarn is a great option. It’s breathable, durable, and comes in a variety of colors. Plus, it is easy to care for. There is regular cotton yarn and cotton tubing yarn.

The cotton tubing yarn is made with cotton on the outside and soft, pillow-like polyester fibers on the inside. It is a modern twist on traditional yarn and is easy to work with and you can toss it in the washing machine when it needs cleaning.

Here are some of my favorite benefits of using cotton, especially since I live in a warmer climate. 

1. Breathability and Comfort: Cotton yarn is highly breathable, making it an excellent choice for blankets, especially in warmer climates or for use during the summer months. Its natural fibers allow air circulation, keeping you comfortable and preventing overheating.
2. Hypoallergenic Properties: Cotton is hypoallergenic and suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies. Unlike some synthetic fibers, cotton is less likely to cause irritation, making it a gentle and safe option for blankets, particularly for those with skin sensitivities.
3. Softness and Texture: Cotton yarn tends to have a soft and smooth texture, providing a comfortable feel against the skin. Blankets made from cotton yarn are not only functional but also offer a pleasant tactile experience. The softness of cotton makes it an inviting choice for cozy and relaxing blankets.

What are the Pros of Using Chunky Yarn?

Super bulky yarn offers a range of benefits, from practical advantages like quicker project completion to aesthetic appeal and versatility in creating modern and cozy items.

1. Quick Project Completion: Chunky yarn creates larger stitches, rapidly making your project progress. This benefits those who enjoy completing projects quickly or need a last-minute gift.
2. Textural Appeal: Chunky yarn adds a distinctive and visually appealing texture to your projects. The larger stitches create a cozy and plush appearance, adding warmth and comfort to blankets, scarves, and other items.
3. Beginner-Friendly: Chunky yarn is often recommended for beginners because the larger stitches are easier to see and manipulate. This can be advantageous for those who are new to knitting or crocheting.
4. Cozy and Warm: The thickness of chunky yarn results in finished projects that are inherently warm and snuggly. Chunky blankets, in particular, provide a cozy and luxurious feel.
5. Great for Arm Knitting: Chunky yarn is well-suited for arm knitting, a technique that doesn’t require needles. This quick method produces oversized stitches, perfect for chunky blankets and accessories.

What are the Cons of Using Chunky Yarn?

Despite the considerations below, many crafters find the benefits of using chunky yarn outweigh the drawbacks. It ultimately depends on your project goals, preferences, and the specific requirements of the item you’re creating.

1. Weight: Finished items made with chunky yarn can be heavy, especially in larger projects like blankets. This may affect the drape of the fabric and make it less suitable for certain wearables.
2. Warmth in Warmer Climates: While chunky yarn is excellent for creating warm and cozy items, it may be less practical in warmer climates. The thickness of the yarn can make finished projects too warm for use in hotter weather.
3. Yarn Consumption: Chunky yarn typically requires more than thinner yarn to complete a project. This increased yarn consumption can impact the overall cost and affect your ability to find sufficient quantities of a specific dye lot.
4. Limited Stitch Variety: Chunky yarn may only suit some stitch patterns. This may limit your design options for a handmade blanket.

What Supplies Do You Need to Make a Finger Crochet Blanket? 

• Eight skeins of the best bulky yarn for a large blanket that measures 47″ wide x 66″ long. 
• Two willing and able hands. 

That’s it! No crochet hook or knitting needles are required. All you need is chunky weight yarn, a little time, and my step-by-step instructions to learn how to make your blanket.

How to Make a Chunky Blanket by Hand

Starting your blanket

1. Start with a Slip Knot: Create a slip knot by making your first loop with the yarn, pulling the working end through the loop, and tightening it. Leave a tail for the starting point.
2. Create a Chain:
   • Insert Finger: Insert one of your fingers (usually the index or middle finger) through the slip knot loop, bringing the yarn across the front of your finger.
   • Create a Loop: Using your free hand, grab the working yarn and pull it through the loop on your finger to create a new loop. This is your first chain stitch.
   • Repeat: Insert your finger through the loop you created, and repeat the process. Grab the yarn and pull it through to create a new loop. Keep repeating these steps to create a chain of the desired length.
   • Maintain Tension: Ensure you maintain a consistent tension in the yarn as you create each chain stitch. Too tight or too loose tension can affect the overall appearance of your finished product.
   • Check Your Chain: Periodically check your chain length by gently pulling on the last loop to ensure it’s not too tight. Adjust the tension as needed.
     • I use the three-finger rule. You only want to be able to get three fingers in the loop. Continue this process until you have 28 stitches and a loop at the very end.

Body of the Blanket

 Continue Crocheting: In finger crocheting or finger knitting, turning around to go back in the opposite direction involves creating a new row by working your stitches across the previous row. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Reach the End of the Row: Once you’ve reached the desired length for your initial chain or row, leaving a loop at the end, you’re ready to turn around.
• Insert Finger Through the First Chain or Stitch: Insert your finger through the first chain or stitch of the previous row, moving from the back to the front.
• Create a New Loop: Using your free hand, grab the working yarn and pull it through the first chain or stitch, creating a new loop on your finger. This loop becomes the first stitch of the new row.
• Repeat for Each Chain or Stitch: Continue inserting your finger through each chain or stitch of the previous row, grabbing the yarn, and pulling it through to create a new loop. Repeat this process until you reach the end of the row. (I suggest you count your loops at the end of each row so you do not miss a loop. You always want to have 29 loops per row).
• Check Tension: Ensure you maintain consistent tension throughout the new row. Adjust the tension as needed to match the tension of the first row.
• Continue as Desired: You can continue working back and forth in this manner, creating rows of finger crocheting or finger knitting until you reach the length of blanket you want.

Last Row of a Chunky Blanket

 For the last row at the top of your blanket, you will grab the end loop and one additional loop and pull the yarn strand through the two loops. Continue this process to the very end, always pulling through two loops. 

 How to End a Blanket Knitting

1. Complete the Final Stitch: Continue finger crocheting until you reach your blanket’s last stitch or desired length.
2. Cut the Yarn: Leave a tail of about 6 inches, and cut the yarn, ensuring enough length for weaving in later.
3. Pull Through Loop: Remove your finger from the loop, then pull the cut end of the yarn through the loop to create a knot.
4. Tighten the Knot: Gently tighten the knot to secure the last stitch.
5. Weave in Ends:  Weave the tail through the stitches along the edge of the last row to hide the tail. This helps create a tidy and finished look.
6. Trim Excess Yarn: Trim any excess yarn close to the woven-in tail, ensuring the cut end is not visible on the finished blanket.

Adding Fringe to Your Blanket

Adding fringe can be fun and it does not take a lot of time. 

Cut several pieces of yarn that are 12″ each. Fold each piece in half and slip the looped end through the loops on the short end of the blanket. 

Place the two ends through the loop and pull tight.

Once you have added all the fringe pieces, lay the blanket on a flat surface, such as a table, and trim your fringe so it is all the same length.

How Do you Attach the Skeins of Yarn?

There are a few ways to add one skein to another. 
When working with chenille yarn, I connect the two ends of the skeins by tying them together securely. Afterward, I pull the knot tight and trim any extra yarn. The fluffy nature of this yarn makes the knot practically invisible. Here is another way to attach two skeins.

1. Create a Slip Knot: Create a slip knot using the tail of the new skein. Leave a small loop at the end.
2. Insert the Old Yarn: Insert the end of the old yarn through the slip knot from back to front.
3. Tighten the Slip Knot: Pull on the old yarn to tighten the slip knot around it. Make sure it’s snug but not overly tight.
4. Secure the Knot: Pull the slip knot tight around the old yarn, securing the two skeins together.
5. Weave in Ends: Crochet or knit a few stitches with both strands to secure the joined skeins. Then, weave the ends of both the old and new yarn tails into your project using a yarn needle.

Wrapping Up

In concluding our journey through “The Best Chunky Yarn for Crochet Blankets,” I hope you found the perfect yarn to create your new blanket. Whether you lean towards rich textures or vibrant hues, these top picks cater to various tastes, allowing you to infuse your unique style into every stitch. Happy crocheting!