Make your own chunky knit blanket for just $17: an easy DIY guide

Are you looking to create a cozy addition to your home without breaking the bank? Have you ever wanted to try your hand at knitting but shied away because it seemed too complicated? Look no further – we have the perfect project for you! In this easy DIY guide, we will show you how to make your own chunky knit blanket for just $17.

Chunky knit blankets are all the rage right now. They add a touch of warmth and style to any room, and can be quite expensive if purchased from a store. But why spend a fortune when you can make your own at a fraction of the cost?

With just a few supplies and a little bit of patience, anyone can create their own chunky knit blanket. The best part? It doesn’t require any knitting experience! Our guide will walk you through each step, from choosing the right yarn to creating your first stitches. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create a beautiful and cozy blanket that you can proudly display in your home.

Choose your yarn

When making a chunky knit blanket, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is choosing the right yarn. The yarn you choose will determine the overall look and feel of your blanket, as well as its durability and warmth. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your yarn:

Weight: Chunky or bulky weight yarn is ideal for this project, as it will create the thick and cozy texture that is characteristic of chunky knit blankets. Look for yarn with a weight classification of 5 or higher.
Material: The material of the yarn will determine both the softness and durability of your blanket. Common materials for chunky knit blankets include merino wool, acrylic, and cotton. Merino wool is known for its luxurious softness, while acrylic is more affordable and easy to care for. Cotton is a good option for those with allergies or sensitivities.
Color: Consider the color palette of your space and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Neutral shades like white, gray, and beige are timeless and versatile, while bold colors can add a pop of personality.
Quantity: Calculate how much yarn you’ll need for your desired blanket size. Most patterns will provide an estimate based on the dimensions of the finished blanket.

Once you have a good understanding of your preferences and requirements, head to your local craft store or explore online retailers to find the perfect yarn for your chunky knit blanket project. Don’t be afraid to touch and feel the yarn to ensure it’s soft and cozy enough for your liking. Happy yarn shopping!

Get your knitting needles ready

If you’re ready to start making your own chunky knit blanket, the first thing you’ll need is a pair of knitting needles. These can be found at any craft store or online and come in a variety of sizes. Depending on the size of blanket you want to make, you’ll want to choose needles that are appropriate for the thickness of the yarn you’ll be using.

Once you have your knitting needles, you’ll need to gather your materials. For this project, you’ll need a thick, chunky yarn. This type of yarn is perfect for creating a cozy, textured blanket. You can find chunky yarn in a variety of colors and materials, so choose the one that matches your personal style and preferences.

When it comes to knitting, there are two main techniques: knitting with straight needles or knitting with circular needles. For beginners, using straight needles is typically easier, as they require less coordination. However, if you’re comfortable with circular needles, you can use them as well.

Once you have your materials, you’ll need to find a comfortable place to knit. Set up a cozy spot with good lighting and make sure you have enough space to spread out your yarn and needles. You may also want to have a pair of scissors and a tapestry needle on hand for finishing touches.

Before you begin knitting your blanket, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with basic knitting stitches. You’ll need to know how to cast on, knit, and purl to create the textured pattern of the blanket. There are plenty of online tutorials and how-to guides that can help you learn these stitches if you’re new to knitting.

Finally, take your time and enjoy the process of creating your own chunky knit blanket. Knitting can be a relaxing and meditative hobby, and the end result will be a beautiful and cozy addition to your home. Happy knitting!

Learn the basic knitting stitches

If you’re new to knitting, it’s important to learn the basic stitches before attempting more complex patterns. The following are the three fundamental knitting stitches:

The knit stitch

Insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle, from left to right.
Bring the yarn over the right needle, creating a loop around it.
Slide the right needle through the loop, allowing the left stitch to slip off the left needle.
Pull the right needle, along with the new loop, through the old stitch, creating a new stitch on the right needle.

The purl stitch

Insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle, from right to left.
Bring the yarn to the front of the work, between the two needles.
Slide the right needle through the loop, allowing the left stitch to slip off the left needle.
Pull the right needle, along with the new loop, through the old stitch, creating a new stitch on the right needle.

The garter stitch

The garter stitch is formed by knitting every row. It creates a bumpy texture and is great for beginner projects. To create the garter stitch:

Cast on the desired number of stitches.
Knit every row until you reach the desired length.
Bind off all stitches to finish the project.

By mastering these basic stitches, you’ll have a solid foundation for more complex knitting patterns. Take your time to practice these stitches until you feel comfortable with them. Happy knitting!

Cast on your first row

Now that you have gathered your materials and determined the size of your blanket, it’s time to cast on your first row. Follow these steps to get started:

Make a slipknot: Begin by making a slipknot on one of the knitting needles. To do this, form a loop with the yarn, and pull the yarn through the loop, creating a knot. Tighten the knot by pulling gently on both ends of the yarn.
Hold the needles: Hold one knitting needle in your right hand, with the slipknot at the end, and the other knitting needle in your left hand.
Insert the needle: Insert the needle in your right hand into the slipknot, from front to back. Ensure that the slipknot is on the end of the needle.
Create the first stitch: Bring the yarn from the ball over the top of the needle in your left hand, and wrap it around the needle in your right hand.
Pull the yarn through: Using the needle in your right hand, pull the yarn through the slipknot, creating a new loop on the needle.
Repeat the process: Continue steps 3-5, creating stitches until you reach the desired number of stitches for your first row. Remember to keep your stitches loose, as it will be easier to work with the chunky yarn.

Once you have cast on your first row, you are ready to begin knitting your chunky blanket. The cast on row will serve as the foundation for your project, so make sure to take your time and create neat and even stitches.

Start knitting your blanket

Once you have gathered all the materials needed for this project, it’s time to get started on your chunky knit blanket. Follow these simple steps to begin knitting:

Choose your yarn: Select a chunky wool yarn in a color of your choice. Make sure the yarn is thick enough for a cozy blanket.
Prepare your knitting needles: Use knitting needles that are suitable for your chosen yarn. Ensure they are long enough to accommodate the width of your blanket.
Make a slipknot: Start by making a slipknot at the end of the yarn. This will serve as the foundation of your stitches.
Cast on the stitches: Hold the slipknot in one hand and insert the needle through the loop. Pull the yarn to tighten the loop around the needle, then repeat this process to cast on the desired number of stitches for your blanket.
Start knitting the rows: Once you have cast on the required number of stitches, begin knitting the rows. Use the basic knit stitch to create a simple, textured pattern for your blanket.
Continue knitting: Keep knitting row after row until your blanket reaches the desired length. Take breaks when needed and ensure all stitches are tight enough to avoid any gaps in the final product.
Bind off the stitches: Once the blanket has reached the desired length, it’s time to finish off your knitting. Bind off the stitches by knitting the first two stitches, then passing the first stitch over the second stitch. Repeat this process until only one stitch remains. Cut the yarn, leaving a tail, and pull it through the remaining stitch to secure it.
Weave in the ends: To give your blanket a neat appearance, weave in any loose ends with a large tapestry needle. This will help secure the yarn and prevent it from unraveling.

Congratulations! You have now completed knitting your own chunky knit blanket. It’s time to cozy up and enjoy the warmth and comfort of your handmade creation.

Finish your blanket

Once you have completed knitting your chunky blanket, it’s time to finish it off and make it ready for use. Here are the steps to follow:

Weaving in loose ends: Take a tapestry needle and weave in any loose ends into the stitches of your blanket. This will give your blanket a neater look and prevent any unraveling.
Blocking: If you want your blanket to have a more even and smooth appearance, you can consider blocking it. Wet the blanket by soaking it in lukewarm water. Gently squeeze out the excess water. Lay the blanket flat on a towel and shape it to your desired size and dimensions. Leave it to dry completely before using.
Trimming: If you have any stray or uneven strands of yarn, you can use a pair of sharp scissors to carefully trim them off. Be cautious to only trim the excess yarn and not cut any of the knit stitches.
Adding decorative elements: If you want to personalize your blanket, you can add decorative elements such as tassels or pom poms. Use a separate yarn and attach them to the corners or edges of your blanket. This will add a unique touch to your finished piece.
Care instructions: Lastly, it’s important to know how to care for your chunky knit blanket. Most chunky yarns are wool or acrylic blends, which means they might require special care. Read the yarn label for specific laundering instructions. In general, hand washing or using a delicate cycle with cold water and mild detergent is recommended. Lay the blanket flat to dry to maintain its shape and avoid stretching.

Once you have completed these steps, your chunky knit blanket is ready to be used and enjoyed! It will provide you with warmth and coziness during the cooler months and serve as a beautiful decorative piece in your home.

Give your blanket a final touch

Now that you’ve completed knitting your chunky blanket, it’s time to give it a final touch to make it even more fabulous.

1. Trim any loose ends: Take a pair of sharp scissors and carefully trim any loose ends of yarn that may be sticking out of your blanket. This will give your blanket a neater and more polished look.

2. Fluff it up: Give your blanket a good shake to fluff up the yarn and make it look even more voluminous. You can also use a soft-bristle brush or a pet brush to gently brush the surface of your blanket, fluffing up the individual strands of yarn.

3. Add a decorative edge: If you want to take your blanket to the next level, consider adding a decorative edge. You can use a contrasting color of yarn to knit or crochet a border around the edges of your blanket. Alternatively, you can use fabric or ribbon to sew or glue a decorative trim to the edges.

4. Personalize it: Make your blanket truly unique by adding personal touches. This could be embroidering your initials, sewing on patches or appliqués, or even adding a pompom or tassel to each corner.

5. Care instructions: Lastly, don’t forget to include care instructions for your blanket. If it’s machine washable, include the washing and drying instructions. If it’s not, recommend spot cleaning or hand washing. Also, let the recipient know how to store and preserve the blanket to ensure it stays in great condition.

With these final touches, your chunky knit blanket will be ready to cozy up any space and make a beautiful statement.

Show off your beautiful creation

Now that you have successfully created your own chunky knit blanket, it’s time to show it off and bask in all the compliments you’ll receive! Here are some ideas on how to display and use your beautiful creation:

Drape it over your couch or armchair: Your chunky knit blanket will not only add a cozy and inviting touch to your living room but also serve as a functional piece for snuggling on those chilly nights.
Use it as a bedspread: Give your bedroom a cozy and stylish makeover by using your chunky knit blanket as a bedspread. It will add texture and warmth to your bedding, creating a cozy oasis.
Gift it to a loved one: If you’re feeling generous, consider gifting your chunky knit blanket to a special someone. It will not only be a thoughtful and meaningful present but also a beautiful addition to their home decor.
Create a cozy reading nook: Set up a cozy corner in your home by placing a comfortable chair, some soft pillows, and your chunky knit blanket. It will create a perfect spot for curling up with a book and a cup of tea.
Accessorize your home photo shoots: If you love taking aesthetic photos for your social media or blogging, your chunky knit blanket can make a great prop. Use it as a backdrop or wrap it around yourself for that perfect cozy look.

No matter how you choose to display or use your chunky knit blanket, be proud of your creative endeavor and enjoy the warmth, comfort, and beauty it brings to your home.

FAQ:

How can I make a chunky knit blanket?

To make a chunky knit blanket, you will need thick yarn and large knitting needles. Start by casting on the desired number of stitches on your needles. Then, knit each row using a simple knit stitch until you reach the desired length. Finally, cast off your stitches and weave in any loose ends.

What kind of yarn should I use for a chunky knit blanket?

You should use thick and chunky yarn for a chunky knit blanket. Yarns labeled as “super bulky” or “jumbo” are ideal for creating a thick and cozy blanket. Look for yarns made from natural fibers like wool or acrylic, as they will provide warmth and durability.

Where can I buy the materials needed to make a chunky knit blanket?

You can buy the materials needed to make a chunky knit blanket at craft stores, yarn shops, or online. Many online retailers offer a wide range of yarn options, and you can also find knitting needles and other supplies easily. Some popular online stores for knitting supplies include Amazon, Etsy, and Knit Picks.

Is knitting a chunky blanket difficult?

No, knitting a chunky blanket is not difficult. It is a great project for beginners as it only requires a simple knit stitch. The large size of the needles and yarn also makes the knitting process faster and more forgiving. With a little practice, anyone can create a beautiful chunky knit blanket.

How long does it take to make a chunky knit blanket?

The time it takes to make a chunky knit blanket depends on several factors, such as the size of the blanket, your knitting speed, and the complexity of the stitch pattern. However, on average, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to complete a chunky knit blanket. Using larger needles and thicker yarn can help speed up the process.

How to make a chunky knit blanket for $17