Chunky knit blankets have become quite popular in recent years, adding a cozy and stylish touch to any room. If you have recently completed knitting your own chunky blanket or are considering starting one, it is important to know how to properly finish it to achieve a professional quality result. With the right techniques and attention to detail, you can ensure that your finished blanket is not only warm and comfortable, but also visually stunning.
One of the key steps in finishing a chunky knit blanket is blocking. Blocking helps to even out the stitches and give the blanket a smooth and polished look. To block your blanket, you will need a flat surface, such as a clean table or a foam mat. Lay your blanket flat on the surface and gently stretch it in all directions, making sure to maintain the desired shape and size. Use blocking pins or rustproof stainless steel T-pins to secure the edges of the blanket and prevent it from shifting or curling.
After blocking, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your chunky knit blanket. One popular technique is to weave in the loose ends of yarn. Use a yarn needle or crochet hook to carefully weave the loose ends back into the stitches of the blanket. Make sure to secure the ends properly to prevent them from coming undone over time. If your blanket has a decorative border or edging, take your time to weave in the loose ends in a way that matches the pattern and maintains the overall look of the blanket.
Lastly, consider adding a personalized touch to your finished chunky knit blanket. You can do this by attaching a fabric or leather label with your name or a special message to the corner of the blanket. This not only adds a professional finishing detail, but also makes the blanket feel more unique and personal. Choose a label that complements the color and style of your blanket, and carefully attach it using a sewing needle and thread.
Choose the Right Yarn for Your Blanket
Choosing the right yarn is essential for creating a chunky knit blanket that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also comfortable and durable. Here are some factors to consider when selecting yarn for your project:
- Weight: Opt for a super bulky or jumbo weight yarn to achieve the chunky look and feel for your blanket. These yarns are typically thick and will create a cozy, warm blanket.
- Material: The material of the yarn will affect the softness, warmth, and durability of your blanket. Popular choices for chunky knit blankets include wool, acrylic, and blended fibers. Consider factors such as breathability, easy care, and any specific allergies or sensitivities.
- Color: Choose a color that complements your home decor or personal style. Consider the overall color scheme of the room where the blanket will be used and select a yarn color that will blend in or make a statement.
- Yardage: Calculate the yardage needed for your project based on the desired size of your blanket. Larger blankets will require more yarn, so make sure to check the yardage per skein and calculate accordingly.
- Texture: Some yarns have a smooth texture, while others may have a more textured or fluffy appearance. Consider the look and feel you want for your blanket and choose a yarn with the desired texture.
Take the time to research and touch different yarn options before making a decision. Additionally, consider how the yarn will behave during the knitting and finishing process, as some yarns may be prone to shedding or stretching. By considering these factors, you can choose the right yarn for your chunky knit blanket and ensure a successful and enjoyable knitting experience.
Prepare Your Knitting Needles
Before starting to finish your chunky knit blanket, make sure you have the right knitting needles for the job. Here are a few things to consider:
- Needle size: Choose knitting needles that are appropriate for the weight of your yarn. Chunky yarn typically requires larger needles, such as size 15 or 17.
- Material: Knitting needles are available in a variety of materials, including bamboo, metal, and plastic. Consider what type of material you prefer based on your personal knitting style and the feel of the needles in your hands.
- Length: The length of the knitting needles can vary, and the choice depends on your personal preference. Some crafters prefer shorter needles for better control, while others like longer needles to accommodate more stitches.
- Double-pointed or circular: Depending on the techniques you plan to use to finish your chunky knit blanket, you may need either double-pointed needles or circular needles. Double-pointed needles are used for knitting in the round or working on small sections, while circular needles are great for working on larger sections of your blanket.
Once you have the right knitting needles, you’re ready to tackle the next steps in finishing your chunky knit blanket. Take your time and enjoy the process!
Cast on Stitches
Before you can start knitting your chunky blanket, you’ll need to cast on stitches to create the foundation row.
To cast on stitches, follow these steps:
- Hold the end of your yarn in your right hand and leave a 6-inch tail.
- Make a slipknot by creating a loop with the yarn.
- Insert your knitting needle through the loop and pull the yarn tight to create a new loop.
- Repeat step 3 until you have the desired number of stitches. For a chunky blanket, you’ll need to cast on a larger number of stitches to create a wider blanket.
Once you have cast on your stitches, you are ready to start knitting!
Knit the Blanket
1. Start by casting on the desired number of stitches onto your knitting needles. The number of stitches will depend on the size of the blanket you want to make and the thickness of your yarn.
2. Once you have cast on the stitches, begin knitting rows using your preferred knitting stitch. For a chunky knit blanket, you can use a simple garter stitch, which is knitting every row. Alternatively, you can use a stockinette stitch, which is knitting one row and purling the next.
3. Continue knitting rows until the blanket reaches your desired length. Remember to switch the sides of your skeins of yarn as you go to prevent any color discrepancies in your finished blanket.
4. When you are ready to finish the blanket, bind off your stitches. To bind off, knit the first two stitches as usual, then use your left needle to lift the first stitch over the second stitch and off the needle. Continue this process until all stitches have been bound off and you are left with one stitch.
5. Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail, and pull it through the last stitch to secure it. Weave in any loose ends using a tapestry needle to give your blanket a clean finish.
6. Optional: If you would like to add decorative touches to your chunky knit blanket, you can consider adding fringe or tassels. To add fringe, cut lengths of yarn and attach them to the edges of your blanket with a crochet hook or tapestry needle. To add tassels, cut several lengths of yarn, fold them in half, and attach them to the corners of your blanket.
7. Once you have finished knitting and any optional decorations, lay your blanket flat and gently block it if desired. This will help to even out any irregularities in your stitches and give your blanket a professional look.
Congratulations, you have completed your chunky knit blanket! Enjoy snuggling up with your cozy creation or give it as a special handmade gift.
Create a Beautiful Pattern
Once you have finished knitting your chunky blanket, it’s time to add a beautiful pattern to make it even more special. Here are a few ideas:
- Cable pattern: Cables are a classic and elegant choice for a knit blanket. They create a lovely texture and give a sophisticated look to your blanket. You can find many cable knitting patterns online or experiment with creating your own cable design.
- Lace pattern: If you prefer a lighter and more delicate look, a lace pattern might be perfect for your blanket. Lace patterns can range from simple eyelets to intricate designs, and they add a touch of elegance to any piece. There are countless lace knitting patterns available, so you can easily find one that suits your taste.
- Colorwork pattern: Adding color to your chunky knit blanket can create a bold and eye-catching design. You can incorporate different colors using fair isle knitting techniques or create a mosaic pattern with contrasting yarns. Colorwork patterns allow you to get creative and personalize your blanket.
- Textured pattern: If you want to add more dimension to your blanket, consider using textured stitches. This can be achieved by using different stitch patterns like seed stitch, ribbing, or moss stitch. Textured patterns not only look interesting but also provide some extra warmth and coziness.
Whichever pattern you choose, it’s important to plan it out before you start knitting. Make sure you have the right tools and materials, such as stitch markers or cable needles, if necessary. Take your time and enjoy the process of creating a unique and beautiful pattern for your chunky knit blanket.
Make Sure to Check for Mistakes
Before finishing your chunky knit blanket, it’s important to take the time to check for any mistakes or errors in your knitting. Small mistakes or dropped stitches can be easily fixed before you finish the blanket, ensuring that your final product looks flawless.
Here are some steps to follow when checking for mistakes:
- Spread out your blanket: Lay your blanket flat on a clean surface, making sure it’s spread out evenly. This will make it easier to spot any mistakes.
- Inspect each stitch: Look closely at each stitch in your blanket, paying attention to the pattern and texture. Check for any dropped stitches, twisted stitches, or skipped stitches.
- Fixing dropped stitches: If you come across a dropped stitch, use a crochet hook or a knitting needle to pick it up and bring it back into the correct position. Make sure the tension is even and matches the surrounding stitches.
- Correcting twisted stitches: If you notice any twisted stitches, carefully unravel the row back to the mistake and then re-knit it correctly. Pay attention to the direction of the stitches to ensure they are all aligned properly.
- Addressing skipped stitches: In case of skipped stitches, carefully unravel the row back to the error and re-knit the missing stitches. Make sure the tension and gauge match the rest of the blanket.
- Inspect the overall pattern: Step back and take a look at your blanket from a distance, checking if the pattern is consistent and even. This will help you identify any mistakes that may not be visible up close.
By taking the time to check for mistakes in your chunky knit blanket, you can ensure that your final product is of high quality and looks beautiful. Don’t rush this step, as it can make a significant difference in the end result of your project.
Bind off Stitches
Once you have completed knitting your chunky knit blanket, it’s time to bind off the stitches to finish off the project. Binding off is the process of securing the stitches so that they don’t unravel.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to bind off stitches:
- Start by knitting the first two stitches.
- Take the left needle and insert it into the first stitch knitted on the right needle.
- Using the left needle, lift the stitch on the right needle up and over the second stitch, letting it drop off the right needle.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3, knitting one stitch and then lifting the previous stitch up and over until only one stitch is left on the right needle.
- Cut the yarn, leaving a tail that is long enough to weave in later.
- Pull the tail through the last loop, tightening it to secure the bind off.
- Using a tapestry needle, weave in the tail of the yarn by threading it through the nearby stitches on the back of the blanket.
- Tug gently on the yarn to make sure it is secure and trim any excess.
And there you have it! Your chunky knit blanket is now finished and ready to use or gift to someone special. Enjoy the cozy warmth of your handmade creation!
Finish and Block Your Blanket
Once you have completed knitting your chunky blanket, it’s time to finish and block it to give it a polished and professional look.
Step 1: Weave in Loose Ends
Before blocking your blanket, make sure to weave in any loose ends to prevent them from unraveling. Use a yarn needle and carefully sew the yarn tails into the stitches of the blanket. Trim any excess yarn.
Step 2: Prepare Blocking Surface
Find a clean and flat surface where you can block your blanket, such as a table or the floor. Lay down a blocking mat or use towels to protect the surface from moisture.
Step 3: Gently Wash your Blanket
If your blanket is made from natural fibers like wool or alpaca, it’s best to hand wash it before blocking. Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water and a gentle wool wash detergent. Gently agitate the blanket in the water, then squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting it.
Step 4: Arrange your Blanket
Spread out your blanket on the blocking surface, making sure it is evenly laid out and the edges are straight. Use rustproof T-pins or blocking wires to secure the edges of the blanket, pulling gently to smooth out any wrinkles.
Step 5: Stretch and Shape
To achieve the desired dimensions for your blanket, gently stretch and shape it. This step is particularly important for larger blankets or blankets with a specific pattern. Use a measuring tape to ensure the dimensions are accurate.
Step 6: Allow to Dry
Leave your blanket on the blocking surface to dry completely. This may take up to 24-48 hours, depending on the thickness of the blanket and the humidity in the air. Avoid moving or touching the blanket until it is completely dry.
Step 7: Remove Pins or Wires
Once the blanket is dry, carefully remove the T-pins or blocking wires. Start from one corner and gently pull them out, being careful not to snag or pull on the fabric.
Step 8: Give it a Final Touch
Inspect your blanket for any loose stitches or areas that need extra care. Use a crochet hook or yarn needle to tighten any loose stitches and trim any stray yarn tails.
Step 9: Enjoy your Finished Chunky Knit Blanket!
Now that your blanket is finished and blocked, it’s time to cozy up and enjoy your handcrafted creation. Curl up on the couch, use it as a stylish home decor accent, or give it as a thoughtful gift.
FAQ:
What is a chunky knit blanket?
A chunky knit blanket is a cozy and warm blanket that is made with thick and bulky yarn. The stitches used to create the blanket are usually larger than those used in traditional knitting projects, resulting in a chunky and textured appearance.
Why would I want to finish a chunky knit blanket?
Finishing a chunky knit blanket is an important step to ensure that the edges of the blanket are neat and secure. It also helps to prevent the yarn from unraveling and prolongs the lifespan of the blanket. Additionally, finishing can give the blanket a more polished and professional look.
What materials do I need to finish a chunky knit blanket?
To finish a chunky knit blanket, you will need a large tapestry needle, scissors, and the same yarn that was used to make the blanket. You may also need a crochet hook or knitting needles, depending on the finishing technique you choose.
What are the different ways to finish a chunky knit blanket?
There are several ways to finish a chunky knit blanket. Some common techniques include the whip stitch, the mattress stitch, and the crochet border. The choice of finishing technique depends on personal preference and the desired outcome.
How do I whip stitch the edges of a chunky knit blanket?
To whip stitch the edges of a chunky knit blanket, thread your tapestry needle with the same yarn that was used to make the blanket, and insert the needle under the first stitch on one edge. Then, bring the needle over the top of the stitch and insert it under the corresponding stitch on the opposite edge. Repeat this process until you have stitched all the way across.
Can I add a crochet border to a chunky knit blanket?
Yes, adding a crochet border is a popular way to finish a chunky knit blanket. To do this, you will need a crochet hook and the same yarn that was used to make the blanket. You can choose from a variety of crochet border patterns, such as a simple single crochet border or a more intricate lace border.