Knitting a chunky blanket is a great project for both experienced knitters and beginners looking to try their hand at a larger project. These cozy blankets are perfect for snuggling up with on a chilly day or adding a touch of texture to your home decor. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of making your own hand knitted chunky blanket.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
The first step to creating your hand knitted chunky blanket is gathering your materials. You will need a set of large knitting needles, typically around size 50 or 25mm, and a super bulky yarn. Super bulky yarns, often labeled as size 6 or 7, are perfect for creating a chunky texture. Choose a yarn color that matches your personal style and the look you want to achieve with your blanket.
Step 2: Cast on Stitches
Once you have your materials, it’s time to cast on your stitches. To do this, make a slipknot with your yarn and slide it onto one of your knitting needles. Then, using your free hand, place the other knitting needle into the slipknot and tighten it slightly. This will be your first stitch. Continue casting on stitches until you have reached the desired width for your blanket.
Step 3: Begin Knitting
With your stitches cast on, you are ready to start knitting. Hold one knitting needle in each hand, with the stitches on your left needle and the empty needle in your right hand. Insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle, from left to right, and wrap the yarn around the right needle. Then, pull the right needle and the yarn through the stitch to create a new stitch on the right needle. Repeat this process for each stitch until all the stitches have been transferred to the right needle.
Step 4: Knit Until Desired Length
Continue knitting in this way, transferring the stitches from the left needle to the right needle, until your blanket reaches the desired length. You can choose to knit in a basic knit stitch for a simple, even texture, or experiment with different stitch patterns to create unique designs. Remember to take breaks and check the length of your blanket as you go to ensure it is coming out the way you want it to.
Step 5: Bind Off
Once you have reached the desired length for your blanket, it’s time to bind off. Knit the first two stitches as normal, then use your left needle to lift the first stitch over the second stitch and off the right needle. Continue this process until you have one stitch left on your right needle. Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail, and pull it through the last stitch to secure it.
And there you have it – a beautiful hand knitted chunky blanket! With just a few materials and some patience, you can create a cozy, stylish addition to your home decor. Now it’s time to snuggle up and enjoy the warmth of your handmade creation.
Choosing the Right Yarn
When making a hand-knitted chunky blanket, choosing the right yarn is crucial. The type of yarn you use will determine the overall look, feel, and durability of your blanket. Here are some factors to consider when selecting yarn for your project:
- Thickness: Chunky blankets are known for their cozy, bulky appearance. To achieve this look, opt for yarn that is thick and bulky. Bulky or super bulky weight yarns are usually the best choice for this type of project.
- Material: Yarn comes in a variety of materials, including wool, acrylic, cotton, and blends. Each material has its own benefits and characteristics. Wool provides warmth and natural elasticity, while acrylic is affordable, easy to care for, and comes in a wide range of colors. Cotton is breathable and perfect for warmer climates, while blends offer a combination of different materials’ properties.
- Texture: Consider the texture you want your blanket to have. Do you prefer a smooth and soft texture, or a more textured and chunky feel? Yarn with a high twist will have more structure and definition, while yarns with a brushed or boucle texture will be softer and fuzzier.
- Color: The color of your yarn can greatly impact the overall look of your blanket. Consider the theme or color scheme of the room where the blanket will be used. Neutral colors like gray, cream, or beige are versatile and timeless, while bold colors can make a statement.
- Amount: Calculate how much yarn you will need for your blanket. The size and thickness of your blanket will determine the amount of yarn required. Most yarn labels provide information on yardage or weight, so you can easily determine how much yarn to purchase.
It’s recommended to do some research and read reviews on different yarn options before making a final decision. Additionally, visiting a yarn store or attending a yarn fair can provide an opportunity to feel the texture and see the colors in person. By carefully selecting the right yarn for your hand-knitted chunky blanket, you can ensure a beautiful, cozy, and long-lasting result.
Getting the Right Knitting Needles
When it comes to making hand knitted chunky blankets, choosing the right knitting needles is essential. The size and type of needles you use can significantly impact the outcome of your project. Here are some factors to consider when selecting knitting needles:
- Material: Knitting needles are available in various materials, including bamboo, wood, metal, and plastic. Each material has its own unique characteristics, such as flexibility and smoothness. Consider your personal preference and the type of yarn you are using when selecting a material.
- Size: Knitting needles come in different sizes, typically measured in millimeters or US sizes. The size you choose will depend on the thickness of the yarn and the desired tension of your stitches. Be sure to check the recommended needle size mentioned in your knitting pattern or yarn label.
- Length: The length of knitting needles can vary from short (around 20 cm / 8 inches) to long (around 40 cm / 16 inches or longer). Longer needles are generally preferred for larger projects like blankets, as they provide more space to hold the stitches.
- Type: There are different types of knitting needles, including straight needles, circular needles, and double-pointed needles. Straight needles are commonly used for smaller projects, while circular needles are ideal for knitting larger items like blankets. Double-pointed needles are typically used for knitting in the round or creating small tubular pieces.
Keep in mind that the specific knitting needles you choose may vary based on your personal preferences and the techniques you are comfortable with. Experimenting with different needle sizes and types can help you find the one that works best for your hand knitted chunky blankets.
Casting on Stitches
Before you can start knitting your chunky blanket, you need to cast on the stitches. Casting on is the process of creating the foundation row of stitches on your knitting needle.
Here are the steps to cast on stitches for your hand knitted chunky blanket:
- Hold the working yarn in your right hand and the knitting needle in your left hand.
- Create a slipknot by making a loop with the yarn.
- Insert the needle through the loop and tighten it around the needle.
- Hold the needle with the slipknot in your left hand.
- With your right hand, bring the yarn over the top of the needle, forming a loop.
- Insert the needle into the loop from the front to the back.
- Bring the yarn between the needles, wrapping it around the right needle.
- Pull the loop through the stitch, creating a new stitch on the right needle.
- Repeat steps 5-8 until you have cast on the desired number of stitches for your blanket.
Once you have finished casting on the stitches, you are ready to start knitting your chunky blanket.
Learning Basic Knitting Stitches
If you are new to knitting, it’s important to learn the basic stitches before attempting more complex patterns. The following stitches are essential to know when making a hand knitted chunky blanket:
- Knit Stitch: The knit stitch is the most basic knitting stitch. It creates a smooth and flat fabric. To knit, insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle from front to back. Wrap the yarn around the right needle counterclockwise and pull it through the stitch, slipping the old stitch from the left needle. Repeat this process for each stitch.
- Purl Stitch: The purl stitch is the reverse of the knit stitch. It creates a bumpy texture on the fabric. To purl, insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle from back to front. Wrap the yarn around the right needle counterclockwise and pull it through the stitch, slipping the old stitch from the left needle. Repeat this process for each stitch.
- Stockinette Stitch: The stockinette stitch is created by alternating rows of knit and purl stitches. This stitch creates a smooth and flat fabric on one side (the knit side) and a bumpy texture on the other side (the purl side).
- Garter Stitch: The garter stitch is created by knitting every row. This stitch creates a bumpy texture on both sides of the fabric. It is often used for borders or as an accent stitch in patterns.
These basic stitches are the foundation for many knitting patterns. By mastering them, you will be able to create a variety of beautiful and cozy hand knitted chunky blankets.
Knitting the Blanket
Now that you have your supplies ready, it’s time to start knitting your chunky blanket. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Start by casting on the desired number of stitches, depending on the width of your blanket. You can use knitting needles or your arm to create the loops.
- Once you have the stitches casted on, begin working the first row. Remember to use the basic knit stitch for the entire blanket, unless you prefer a different stitch pattern.
- Continue knitting each row, making sure to maintain a consistent tension throughout the process. This will ensure that your blanket turns out even and well-distributed.
- As you reach the end of each skein of yarn, join a new skein by loosely tying the ends together or weaving them in with a crochet hook. This will help avoid any abrupt color changes in your blanket.
- Continue knitting until you reach the desired length for your blanket. You can measure it using a tape measure or simply using your arm span as a guide.
- Once you’ve finished knitting the blanket, it’s time to bind off. Cut the working yarn, leaving a long tail, and thread it through the last loop to secure it. Trim any excess yarn.
- To add a finished touch, weave in any loose ends using a yarn needle. This will give your blanket a polished look and prevent any unraveling.
And there you have it! Your hand-knitted chunky blanket is complete. It’s time to snuggle up and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings.
Adding Embellishments and Patterns
Once you have mastered the basic technique of hand knitting a chunky blanket, you may want to experiment with adding embellishments and patterns to give your blanket a unique and personalized touch. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Fringe
Adding fringe to the edges of your blanket can give it a bohemian or rustic look. To add fringe, cut several pieces of yarn that are twice the desired length of the fringe. Fold each piece in half and use a crochet hook or your fingers to draw the folded end through the edge of the blanket. Pull the loose ends through the folded loop and tighten to secure the fringe.
2. Cables
If you are looking to add texture to your blanket, try knitting cables. Cables are created by crossing stitches over each other to form braided or twisted patterns. To knit a cable, follow a cable chart or pattern that specifies the order and direction of the crossing stitches. Cabling requires a cable needle or double-pointed needle to hold the stitches in the front or back while you work the other stitches.
3. Colorwork
Colorwork involves knitting with multiple colors to create patterns or designs. One simple colorwork technique is stranded knitting, also known as Fair Isle knitting. In stranded knitting, you carry both colors of yarn along the back of the work and use them as needed to create the desired pattern. Intarsia knitting is another colorwork technique that involves knitting with separate balls of yarn for each color block in the design.
4. Appliques
Adding appliques can be a fun way to personalize your blanket. Appliques can be made by knitting or crocheting small shapes or motifs and then sewing them onto the blanket. You can create appliques in a variety of shapes, such as flowers, animals, or initials. Alternatively, you can use fabric or felt appliques and attach them with fabric glue or by sewing them onto the blanket.
5. Ribbing or Seed Stitch Borders
If you want to add visual interest to the edges of your blanket, consider knitting a ribbing or seed stitch border. Ribbing is created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a specific pattern. Seed stitch is created by alternating knit and purl stitches within the same row. Both ribbing and seed stitch can create a nice texture and contrast with the main body of the blanket.
Remember, the possibilities are endless when it comes to embellishing and adding patterns to your hand-knitted chunky blanket. Let your creativity guide you and have fun with it!
Finishing Off the Blanket
Once you have completed knitting your chunky blanket, it’s time to finish it off and give it a polished look. Here are the steps to follow:
- Trim the loose yarn ends: Start by trimming any loose yarn ends that are sticking out. Use sharp scissors to carefully cut the ends close to the fabric, making sure not to cut through the stitches or leave any long tails.
- Block the blanket: Blocking is a process that helps to shape and flatten your knitted piece. Lay your blanket flat on a clean surface and gently stretch it to its desired shape. Pin the edges of the blanket to hold it in place and steam or spray it lightly with water. Allow the blanket to dry completely before unpinning it.
- Add a border (optional): If you want to add a decorative border to your blanket, you can do so by picking up stitches around the edges. Using a crochet hook or knitting needles, work a few rows of your preferred border stitch, such as single crochet or garter stitch. This will give your blanket a finished and polished look.
- Wash and block again (optional): If you want to give your blanket a softer feel or if it has become slightly misshapen during knitting, you can wash it. Fill a basin with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Gently soak the blanket and then rinse it with clean water. Squeeze out excess water without wringing or stretching the fabric. Block the blanket again following the same steps as mentioned earlier, allowing it to dry completely.
Following these steps will help ensure that your hand-knitted chunky blanket looks beautiful and lasts for a long time. Remember to always handle your finished blanket with care, avoiding sharp objects or rough surfaces that may snag or damage the delicate yarn fibers.
Caring for Your Hand Knitted Chunky Blanket
Hand-knitted chunky blankets require a bit of extra care to keep them looking beautiful and feeling cozy for years to come. Here are some tips to help you properly care for your handmade blanket:
- Spot Cleaning: If you notice a small stain or spill on your blanket, it’s best to spot clean it immediately. Use a mild detergent or stain remover and gently blot the affected area with a clean cloth. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing, as it can damage the delicate fibers.
- Hand Washing: For a more thorough cleaning, it’s recommended to hand wash your chunky blanket. Fill a tub or basin with lukewarm water and a gentle wool wash. Submerge the blanket and gently agitate it for a few minutes. Rinse well with clean water, squeezing out any excess moisture. Avoid wringing or twisting the blanket, as it can cause it to lose its shape.
- Drying: After washing, carefully reshape the blanket to its original dimensions. Lay it flat on a clean towel or drying rack and let it air dry. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can fade the colors of the yarn. Flip the blanket over occasionally to ensure even drying.
- Storage: When not in use, it’s important to store your chunky blanket properly. Fold it neatly and place it in a breathable storage bag or an airtight container with some sachets of lavender or cedar for protection against moths. Avoid storing it in damp or humid areas, as it can promote mold and mildew growth.
- Brushing: Over time, your hand-knitted blanket may develop some fuzz or pilling. To remove these, gently brush the surface with a soft bristle brush or a fabric shaver. Be careful not to pull or snag the yarn while doing this.
Following these care instructions will help preserve the quality and beauty of your hand-knitted chunky blanket, allowing you to enjoy its warmth and comfort for many years to come.
FAQ:
What materials do I need to make a hand knitted chunky blanket?
To make a hand knitted chunky blanket, you will need chunky yarn, knitting needles, and scissors.
Where can I find chunky yarn for the blanket?
You can find chunky yarn at craft stores, online websites, or even some larger retail stores that have a craft section.
What size knitting needles should I use?
The size of knitting needles you should use will depend on the size of the yarn you choose. Generally, for chunky yarn, you will want to use larger needles, such as size US 13 or US 15.
How long does it take to knit a chunky blanket?
The time it takes to knit a chunky blanket will depend on your knitting speed and the size of the blanket. On average, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to complete.
Are there any special knitting techniques I should know?
There are a few techniques that can be helpful to know when knitting a chunky blanket, such as casting on, knitting, purling, and binding off. You can easily learn these techniques through online tutorials or by taking a knitting class.
Can I wash the chunky blanket?
Yes, you can wash a chunky blanket. However, it is important to check the care instructions on the yarn label and follow them accordingly. Some yarns may require hand washing or gentle machine washing, while others may be able to withstand regular machine washing.