Hey there, fellow craft enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, your guide to all things handmade. I’ve always been drawn to the rustic charm and cozy vibes of chunky knit blankets. There’s something so inviting about their texture, and they add an instant touch of warmth to any room. But let’s face it, those price tags can be a bit intimidating! That’s why I set out on a mission to create my own DIY chunky knit blanket, and the best part? You don’t need any knitting needles!
This guide is perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right yarn to mastering the hand-knitting technique. By the end, you’ll be amazed at your own craftsmanship and have a beautiful, handcrafted blanket to snuggle up with. So, let’s gather our materials and embark on this cozy crafting adventure together!
diy chunky knit blanket tutorial
Choosing the Right Yarn for Your Blanket
Choosing the right yarn is crucial for achieving that perfect chunky knit look and feel. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various types of yarn, and here are my top recommendations:
1. Couture Jazz Yarn
My absolute favorite! Couture Jazz yarn by Premier Yarns has the ideal thickness and texture for chunky blankets. It comes in a gorgeous range of colors and doesn’t shed easily.
Expert Tip: “Couture Jazz yarn is a popular choice for arm knitting projects due to its soft texture and bulky weight,” says renowned fiber artist, Sarah Thompson. “Its blend of acrylic and wool makes it both durable and easy to care for.”
best yarn for chunky knit blanket
2. Chunky Luxe Big Yarn
Another great option, especially if you prefer shopping locally, is Chunky Luxe Big Yarn, available at most craft stores. It’s a bit thinner than Couture Jazz and has a slightly different texture. However, keep in mind that it tends to shed a bit more.
best yarn for chunky knit blankets
3. Loop Yarns
For an even easier approach, try loop yarns! While not as chunky as the previous two options, these pre-looped yarns simplify the knitting process. They come in beautiful colors and create a unique textured look.
best yarns for chunky knit blankets
Gathering Your Supplies
Now that we’ve chosen our yarn, let’s gather the minimal supplies needed for this project:
- Yarn: Select one of the recommended chunky yarns or any bulky yarn that catches your eye. The amount will depend on the desired blanket size.
- Scissors: A good, sharp pair of scissors is essential for clean yarn cuts.
Step-by-Step Hand Knitting Tutorial
Here’s where the magic happens! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create that intricate knit look using just your hands:
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Create a Slip Knot: Begin by making a slip knot with your yarn. This will be the foundation of your blanket.
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Form the Chain: Using your thumb and index finger, reach inside the slip knot, grab the working yarn, and pull it through the loop. This creates your first chain. Continue this process until your chain reaches the desired width of your blanket.
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Master the Hand Knit Stitch:
- Skip the first stitch on your chain.
- Insert your thumb and index finger into the next stitch and pull a loop of yarn through.
- You can adjust the loop size to achieve a looser or tighter knit.
- Continue this stitch across the entire row.
- When you reach the end, skip the first stitch and work back in the opposite direction.
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Add a New Skein: When you run out of yarn, simply tie the new skein to the working yarn with a secure knot. Make sure to hide the knot on the backside of your blanket.
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Bind Off Your Blanket:
- When your blanket reaches the desired length, it’s time to bind off.
- Grab two loops on your working side and thread the working yarn through them.
- Let go of the two loops, leaving one loop on your hand.
- Pick up another loop from the blanket and pass it to your working hand.
- Thread the working yarn through both loops and pull to tighten.
- Repeat this process until all loops are secured.
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Finishing Touches:
- Weave the remaining yarn tail into the back of the blanket to secure it.
- Turn your blanket over and ensure all yarn joins are tightly knotted. Trim any excess yarn tails.
diy chunky knit blanket
Caring for Your Chunky Knit Blanket
To keep your handmade blanket looking its best, hand washing is always recommended. However, always check the yarn manufacturer’s care instructions, as some synthetic yarns may be machine washable. After washing, lay your blanket flat to dry to preserve its shape and size.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve just created your very own DIY chunky knit blanket. Drape it over a chair, snuggle up on the couch, or give it as a heartfelt handmade gift. I encourage you to share your creations and leave comments below. Happy crafting!
And remember, if you’re looking for more unique, handcrafted gifts or inspiration for your next project, be sure to explore the rest of Robert Kline Art.