A frequent question from my knitters about how to choose the best chunky yarn for your blanket.
Yarn choice plays an enormous role in how the finished object looks and performs over time.
When picking out chunky yarn for your blanket, there are some particular qualities to look out for and some things to avoid. The right yarn can make a significant difference.
Weight
Before purchasing a yarn, the first thing to check is the yarn’s weight. Bulky or Chunky Yarn has a #5 Weight, so look for the #5 yarn symbol on the yarn label.
Fiber
Natural fibers such as wool tend to have the best memory and will spring back into shape. Anything with many drapes, like cotton, bamboo, or silk, can end up droopy after a few washes.
There is a lot of conversation these days about superwash wool vs. fiber-conscious alternatives, and itโs a decision each knitter needs to make on their own. But many if not most commercial Bulky or Chunky Yarns are made with superwash yarn.
Color
Blankets offer an amazing opportunity to branch out and explore shades and colorways that you might never choose for a garment! Color is such an individual choice, but there are a few rules of thumb:
โข Pale colors can show dirt and stains quickly;
โข Dark colors hide dirt, as well as hide delicate stitch patterns and cables;
โข Variegated yarns can obscure fancy stitches;
โข Speckled yarns can camouflage flecks of dirt while the lighter colors let the stitch work shine.
Gauge
Yarns classified as bulky or chunky have a gauge of about 12 stitches = 4″ /10 cm using US 10.5 / 6.5 mm knitting needles.
There can be variations based on the yarn structure, needle size, and tension.
Places to shop
There are two places to shop for yarn: โlocal yarn shops
โor online retailers.
If you opt for a yarn shop near you, call ahead to see if it carries the yarn weight you are looking for!
In case you prefer to shop online, there are several online options. From indie dyer (you can find my favorite in my interview section) to bigger online retailers (like iceyarn.com or hobbii.com).
So there you go! Thatโs everything you need to know about choosing the best chunky yarn for your blanket!
If you’re planning to knit a cozy blanket with chunky yarn, choosing the right pattern will help you achieve the best results is important. So, start exploring patterns and let your creativity run wild!