How to Make a Chunky Handmade Blanket

There is nothing quite like the cozy feeling of wrapping yourself up in a soft, chunky blanket on a chilly evening. If you have been eyeing those beautiful, hand-knitted blankets on Instagram, but feel overwhelmed by the idea of creating one yourself, don’t be discouraged. Believe it or not, making your own chunky knit blanket is easier than you may think, and can be a fun and rewarding experience!

All you need is a few basic materials, a bit of patience, and some dedicated time to create your very own custom-made blanket. Whether you choose to knit by hand or use your favorite knitting machine, you can create a unique piece that is sure to become a favorite in your collection. So, put on your favorite music, make yourself a hot cup of tea, and let’s get started on making your very own chunky knit blanket by hand!

1. Choosing the Right Yarn for Your Chunky Blanket

The type of yarn you choose for your chunky handmade blanket is crucial in determining the final appearance and texture of your creation. Always choose a chunky, bulky yarn as it’s perfect for the cozy, chunky finish desired in a chunky blanket. Options are endless, and you can choose from cotton, wool, synthetic, or a blend of these fabrics.

When selecting yarn, take into consideration your intended usage and style. For instance, wool is warm and ideal for winters, while cotton can be useful in summer. Moreover, opt for a yarn that complements the color theme of your space, especially if you intend to use the blanket as a home décor item.

2. Picking the Appropriate Needle Size

The needle size you pick when making your chunky blanket determines the final size of your stitches and overall fabric texture. Large needle sizes translate to more oversized stitches and a coarser texture, while smaller needles result in tighter stitches and smoother textures.

When making a hand-knitted chunky blanket, the most common needle size used is a 25mm, but you can experiment with different sizes to achieve desired results.

3. Design Ideation and Planning

Brainstorm on what patterns you’ll implement on your chunky blanket before starting your project. You can use online resources like Pinterest or Instagram to get DIY ideas and inspiration from other creators. Sketch your ideas on a paper and take note of the yarn color you picked for each section.

4. Establish Your Gauging

It’s essential to ensure that your gauge matches the pattern you intend to create. When making your blanket, create a small swatch, and measure the number of stitches and rows per inch against your desired measurement. Tweaking your gauge to perfection will guarantee a nicely structured and uniform blanket.

5. Casting On

Before beginning to knit your chunky blanket, you must cast on the required number of stitches to avoid undersized or oversized blankets. Cast-on stitches are the basis of your blanket, and making sure they’re done correctly ensures clean and uniform edges.

6. Knitting the First Row

As a beginner, knit basic knit stitches for your first row after casting on. Keep the stitches spaced apart and uniform throughout the row to avoid inconsistency in your blanket’s texture.

7. Continue Knitting to Desired Length

After completing the first row, maintain the pattern you had set initially, and continue knitting until you attain the required length. Ensure you check measurements frequently to avoid excess length and unraveling some stitches to the required length.

8. Casting Off

When you’ve achieved your desired length, it’s time to cast off and finish this project. Carefully bind off your last row, ensuring you leave a long tail of yarn to weave into the knitted stitches to prevent unraveling.

9. Weaving in Your Ends

Use a tapestry needle to weave in your ends in the back of your blanket to keep a tidy finish. Starting at the end of your tail, thread the leftover yarn under the knitted stitches, weaving in a few rows, trimming the ends once you’re done.

10. Final Touches

Finally, examine your blanket for any loose ends, stitching inconsistencies, or imperfections. If necessary, fix any errors, and ensure the final blanket is uniform and cozy according to your desired vision. You can handwash in cold water with a mild detergent to give it a finishing touch before using or gifting your prized creation.

Choosing the Right Yarn

When it comes to making a chunky blanket by hand, selecting the right yarn can make all the difference. Here are a few things to keep in mind when picking your yarn:

Consider the Texture

Chunky blankets are meant to be cozy and soft – so steer clear of scratchy or rough-textured yarns that could end up irritating your skin. Look for yarns labeled as “super bulky”, “roving”, or “jumbo” which typically provide a luxuriously soft feel that’s perfect for snuggling up.

Pick the Right Material

The material of your yarn will also have an impact on the quality of your finished product. Wool, for example, is a popular choice for chunky blankets as it creates a warm and durable fabric with a natural luster. However, if you’re allergic to wool or prefer to use something more budget-friendly, acrylic yarns can be a good alternative.

Choose Your Color Palette

A chunky blanket can be a statement piece on its own, or it can blend into your existing decor. Choose a yarn color that fits your personal style and complements your space. Consider whether you want to go for a bold, eye-catching hue or something more muted and calming.

Quantity

The amount of yarn you’ll need for your chunky blanket will vary depending on the size you want to make it. As a general rule of thumb, you’ll need around five to seven skeins of yarn, depending on its size. Be sure to purchase extra just in case, especially if you’re making a larger blanket.

Price

The cost of yarn can add up quickly, so it’s important to consider your budget when selecting a yarn for your chunky blanket. While some natural fibers can be more expensive, acrylic and synthetic blends can be more budget-friendly without compromising on aesthetics or quality.

Washing and Care Instructions

It’s important to consider the care instructions for your chosen yarn before making your chunky blanket. Some yarns may require delicate hand-washing, while others may be machine washable. Take these instructions into account when deciding on which yarn to use for your project.

Weight

The weight of your yarn can also impact the overall look and feel of your blanket. A heavier weight yarn will create a denser weave and a chunkier texture, whereas a lighter weight will produce a more delicate fabric. Consider what kind of feel you are going for and choose a yarn with the appropriate weight.

Texture

The texture of your yarn can create a visual interest on your finished chunky blanket. For example, some yarns may have a bouclé effect, creating a bumpy texture, while others may have a smooth and sleek finish. Consider the type of texture you want to achieve before purchasing your yarn.

Brand Loyalty

If you’re already a seasoned knitter or crocheter, you may be familiar with certain yarn brands and have a preference for their products. Take this into consideration when choosing your yarn for your chunky blanket, as there are a variety of high-quality brands that make bulky and roving yarns.

Blending Yarns

If you can’t find the perfect yarn for your chunky blanket, consider blending different yarns together to create a unique look and texture. Blending yarns can also help you achieve a particular color palette or achieve a specific weight. Experiment with combining different yarns and see what you can come up with.

Selecting the right yarn for your chunky blanket project can seem overwhelming, but as long as you keep these considerations in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a cozy and stylish accessory that’s perfect for snuggling up with.

Materials Needed

Making a chunky blanket by hand requires some specific materials that you will need to acquire before you can begin. We have compiled a list of various materials needed and detailed information about each one of them to ensure that you have all the necessary resources you need to create your chunky blanket by hand.

Choosing Your Yarn

One of the crucial elements to consider when making a chunky blanket by hand is selecting the appropriate yarn type. There are many different types of chunky or bulky weight yarns that are suitable for knitting blankets. The most popular yarns for chunky blankets include wool, merino, chenille, and faux fur. Below are some factors you may want to consider when selecting your yarn:

Texture

Texture is the most important aspect to consider when selecting your yarn. The texture can either make or break the feel and warmth of your blanket. Chunky yarns come in different textures like wool, merino, chenille, and faux fur. Each texture has its pros and cons, so you may want to research and experiment with each kind to figure out which texture works best for you.

Color

Choosing the right color for your chunky blanket will help you achieve the right ambience and vibe for your room. Bold and bright colors, such as pink, orange, and yellow can bring cheerfulness and playfulness, while neutral colors can help create a warm and cosy atmosphere.

Yardage

It’s essential to consider yardage when choosing your yarn since you don’t want to run out of yarn halfway. The recommended yardage for a chunky blanket is between 350-800 yards, depending on the desired finished size of the blanket. Therefore, determining the number of yards required before you begin your project is essential.

Blend

The blend of yarn determines the quality, warmth, and texture of the blanket. Wool blends are best for warm blankets, while acrylic tends to be less warm. You can also mix and match different blends to achieve the desired texture.

Care Instructions

Before purchasing your yarn, you should consider care instructions. Some yarns require dry cleaning, while others can be machine washed. Choose a yarn that matches your lifestyle and preferences.

Begin Knitting Your Chunky Blanket

After you have all the materials and selected the perfect yarn for your chunky blanket, it’s time to begin knitting your blanket. To begin, you first have to cast on your first row. Then, you can proceed with the desired stitch, whether knit, purl, or cable stitch. The key is to remain relaxed and with a consistent stitch tension.

Casting On

Casting on is the initial stage of knitting your chunky blanket. There are different techniques to consider when casting on, such as a long tail cast-on, cable cast-on, or backward loop cast-on. However, the long-tail cast-on is the recommended method for beginners as it is simple and gives an excellent edge finish.

Knitting The First Row

Starting with the purl stitch is recommended for the first few rows. It’s essential to keep your stitch tension consistent throughout the project. You can use stitch markers to keep track of your progress and to transition between changes in stitch pattern.

Finishing Your Chunky Blanket

When you have completed knitting your blanket, it’s time to finish it off. You can complete your project by fastening off or casting down. Ensure that all loose ends are woven into a stable configuration.

Fastening Off

Fastening off requires cutting your yarn, leaving a tail to secure the final stitch and to prevent it from unraveling. Then the final loop is pulled tight and snipped to create a small knot.

Casting Down

Casting down is an alternative method used instead of fastening off. Casting down involves using a crochet hook to knit and pull the loop through the stitch, allowing you to secure it and preventing it from unraveling.

In conclusion, creating a chunky blanket by hand is a fun and worthwhile experience that comes with a sense of accomplishment when you finally see your project completed. It’s essential to take time when selecting your materials and choosing your yarn, as the texture, yardage, color, and blending all play a crucial role in achieving the desired outcome. With the right resources, you’re well on your way to creating a warm, cozy chunky blanket that will last for many years.

Cozy Up with Your New Chunky Blanket

And there you have it, your very own handmade chunky blanket! It may have taken some time and effort, but the end result is worth every stitch. Curl up with your new creation and enjoy the warmth and coziness it brings. Thank you for reading and I hope you visit again soon for more tips and inspiration on crafting. Happy knitting!