This winter I learned to make my own chunky blankets. This is not something to make if you are looking to save money because the yarn is quite expensive. You can find it on sale sometimes, as I got it for $5 a skein at Michaels but that’s not typical. This is not a how to, there are tons of them on the internet. You can search TikTok, Insta, or even YouTube. You need to find a creator you can relate to that teaches you how you need to be taught.
Picking Your Yarn
You need to decide on the color. The type of yarn will be labeled as chunky when you buy it online, it might also say ‘bulky’. But if you are buying it in person, you’ll see several different color options and sometimes brand options and the chunky yarn will be obvious when you look at it. Below you will find a very popular one. I make small throw blankets (4ftx4ft) and use 5 skeins. This is sufficient for an adult. I also mixed colors and just did one continuous blanket. You can stop one color at the end of a row and then start your new color. Typically, you will need at least 8 skeins for a good-sized blanket. Most of my family is less than 5’7″ anyway so it works for us as a throw.
Looping your blanket together.
My recommendation is to find a large flat surface to work on. You might be tempted to do it sitting in a chair or in bed. It can be done, but it’s not ideal when you are starting out. I noticed that when I did that, I was more apt to miss a loop.
I went on YouTube and just searched for chunky blankets for beginners. I watched this one and it’s pretty good-but I’m not sure I agree it’s best for the budget: DIY GIANT CHUNKY BLANKET! (easiest budget gift idea!) – YouTube. I’m not affiliated with that creator and make no money for that recommendation.
After my first blanket I can know hand loop 5 skeins in 90 minutes. Again, the second row is the hardest. The first and last rows are super easy, just make sure you leave enough of a tail on both ends to weave into the blanket to tie off.
Care of Your Blanket
You are in control of your blanket. You can make it tightly weaved or loosely weaved. I prefer the loser side. This makes it a year-round blanket. The blankets I make are chenille. This means, wash in the washer but lay flat to dry.
