Super bulky yarns, also known as roving yarns or mega yarns, refer to the chunkiest and thickest yarns that are sized 6, 7, or even 8 on the yarn weight scale. With their substantial thickness and soft, wooly texture, super bulky yarns have become increasingly popular for knitting and crocheting wonderfully cozy and statement-making projects. These yarns are often used to create thick, warm sweaters, blankets, scarves, and other cold-weather accessories that feel like you’re wrapped in a hug. The large gauge that results from super bulky yarns also works up quickly into projects, making them ideal for beginning knitters and crocheters since you can see your work grow fast. Additionally, the textures and colors now available in super bulky yarns allow for unique, fashionable pieces that make a splash.
Super Bulky Yarns from The Loopy Ewe
The Loopy Ewe offers a nice selection of super bulky weight yarns perfect for creating extra cozy and textured knitted accessories and apparel. You can find thick wool, cotton, alpaca, and thick yarns in an array of colors and textures to match your project needs. The Loopy Ewe also carries knitting patterns designed specifically for super bulky yarns, giving you plenty of inspiration for your next comfy creation.
One top option is Woolstok North from Blue Sky Fibers. This is a single-ply super bulky weight yarn made from 100% fine Highland wool. It is available at 150g hanks that provide 107 yards/98 meters of yarn. Woolstok North features a delightfully squishy, sturdy, and wooly texture. It knits up quickly into projects like hats, cowls, mittens, and blankets. The recommended needle size for Woolstok North is US 13 – 17 (9 – 12mm) and the gauge is 2 stitches per inch. This yarn should be gently hand-washed in mild soap and laid flat to dry. The Loopy Ewe provides a winding service for easier knitting.
Another super bulky choice is Caracol from Malabrigo. Caracol features a thick and thin bulky yarn that is combined with black or white thread before being kettle-dyed, creating beautiful variations. It is 100% merino wool. Each 90-yard/82.3-meter skein is enough for a hat, cowl, or other accessories. Caracol has a cozy handspun look and feel. The recommended needle size is US 13 – 19. It is conveniently machine washable. Malabrigo skeins can vary in color, so The Loopy Ewe recommends alternating skeins to blend the colors.
Lanalpaca from Urth Yarns is a super bulky wool and alpaca blend. It contains 50% superfine baby alpaca and 50% merino wool. This boucle-style roving yarn provides approximately 77 yards/70 meters per skein. It has a lofty, airy texture and comes in a range of fifteen soft, neutral colors. Lanalpaca knits up quickly into garments and accessories. The recommended needle size is US 11 – 15 (8 – 10mm) and the gauge is 6 – 8 stitches per 4 inches. It should be gently hand-washed and laid flat to dry.
All three of these super bulky yarns from The Loopy Ewe provide excellent stitch definition, breathability, durability, and insulating warmth. Their plush textures and quick knitting times make them great choices for indulgent cold-weather knits.
Benefits of Using Super Bulky Yarns
Super bulky yarns offer crafters a wide range of benefits that make them a uniquely satisfying yarn to work with. Their substantial thickness allows projects to knit up quickly, making them ideal for beginners looking to create finished objects fast. The cozy, textured fabric that super bulky yarns produce also makes them perfect for cold-weather accessories that provide warmth and make a fashion statement.
Quick and Easy Projects
One of the biggest advantages of super bulky yarns is that they allow you to create projects very quickly and easily. Because it is a thick yarn, your knitting or crocheting works up faster compared to using thinner yarns. This makes super bulky yarns perfect for when you want nearly instant gratification or only have limited time for crafting. You can finish simple accessories like hats, cowls, and mittens or larger items like blankets and sweaters in a fraction of the time it would take with a finer yarn.
Warmth and Coziness
The thick, chunky texture of super bulky yarns provides excellent insulation against the cold. Projects made with super bulky yarns offer unmatched warmth and coziness, making them ideal for winter wearables and home decor items meant to be extra snuggly. The yarn’s density traps air and heat close to the body, keeping you comfortably warm even on the coldest days.
Unique Texture and Visual Interest
Super bulky yarns create a noticeably chunky, textured fabric that adds beautiful depth and visual interest to finished projects. The plush, roving-style yarns result in an appealing loftiness and dimensionality that thinner yarns cannot replicate. This makes super bulky yarns perfect for crafters who like to create bold, eye-catching statement pieces.
Beginner-Friendly
Due to their larger size, super bulky yarns tend to be easier for beginners to work with. The thick yarn is easier to see and manipulate, making stitches less likely to be dropped accidentally. This can help boost beginners’ confidence and enjoyment as they learn to knit or crochet, encouraging them to continue expanding their skills.
Versatility
While super bulky yarns are chunky, they can be used to create a wide variety of different projects. From garments like ponchos, sweaters, and shawls to home goods like plush blankets and rugs, super bulky yarns offer great versatility for crafters. Their thickness can be adapted to suit all kinds of patterns and designs.
Durability
The substantial thickness and weight of super bulky yarns add to their durability. Projects made with the yarns are less prone to pilling, holes, and other wear and tear issues. This makes them ideal for frequently used items like rugs, pet beds, and children’s blankets that will endure a lot of handling and washing.
Knitting Ideas for Super Bulky Yarns
Super bulky yarns can be used to create all kinds of wonderfully cozy and stylish hand-knit projects. Here are some top knitting ideas to consider:
Chunky Cable Knit Scarf
A chunky cable knit scarf is a classic cold-weather accessory that comes together quickly with super bulky yarn. Choose a simple cable pattern stitch and watch your scarf grow at record speed. The dense cables add plenty of texture and timeless style.
Cozy Knit Throw Blanket
For the ultimate in snuggly warmth, a super bulky knit throw blanket can’t be beaten. Stick to easy garter stitch or stockinette stitch for a basic throw, or add interest with seed stitch, ribbing, or cable patterns. Giant pompoms on the corners make a fun finishing touch.
Oversized Sweater
An oversized, slouchy sweater is the epitome of coziness. Super bulky yarn allows you to knit one up fast. Try a basic raglan pullover pattern, using a simple stockinette or garter stitch. Or get creative with stitches like moss, seed, ribbing, or cables for tons of texture.
Chunky Knit Beanie Hat
Hats are one of the quickest projects to whip up in super bulky yarn. Choose fun colors and textures like flecks, tweeds, and marls to make your hat stand out. Top with a giant pompom or stylish braided yarn tassels. Ear flaps and brims add even more interest.
Cowl Neck Accessories
Cowl neck scarves are stylish and easy to make using super bulky yarn. Stick to basic stitches like seed, moss, ribbing, or garter stitch in solid, marled, or self-striping yarns. For ultimate luxury, try a super bulky merino or alpaca blend.
Arm Knit Blanket
For super fast gratification, try arm knitting a chunky blanket with super bulky yarns. You don’t even need needles – just use your arms as giant knitting needles. This technique allows you to whip up a cozy blanket in just an hour or two.
Fingerless Mittens
Fingerless mittens are a practical way to keep hands warm while retaining dexterity. They knit up fast in super bulky yarn. Experiment with textures like cables, seed stitch, or ribbing. Adding a fun colorwork pattern like Fair Isle makes them extra special.
Pet Sweater
Pets will feel like they’re being hugged when you dress them in a super bulky knit sweater. Choose a simple shape like a rectangle with spaces for legs. Have fun with colors to match their personality. Don’t forget to include a cozy turtleneck or cowl neck.
Slipper Socks
Treat feet to incredible warmth and softness with a pair of super bulky knit slipper socks. Choose a fleece-lined merino wool or alpaca blend for ultimate comfort. Ribbing, seed stitch, or stockinette stitch adds a nice texture. Non-slip soles make them functional.
Easy Beginning Projects
For those just learning to knit, super bulky yarns make knitting up your first projects like scarves, cowls, and hats enjoyable and foolproof. Stick to basic garter or stockinette stitch. Simple patterns like stripes, blocks, or checks are also beginner-friendly.
Statement Piece Garments
More advanced knitters can use super bulky yarns to create dramatic, eye-catching garments and accessories. Pick a basic sweater, shawl, or hat pattern and use bold Fair Isle, intarsia, cables, or other textures to transform it into a true statement piece.
Tips for Working with Super Bulky Yarns
Super bulky yarns do have some unique properties that are helpful to keep in mind:
- Their thickness requires using suitably sized needles – typically US size 10 and up. This will help create an even, drapey fabric.
- Work up a gauge swatch before starting to ensure you achieve the intended fabric density. Super bulky yarns may require adjustments.
- Choose patterns meant specifically for super bulky yarn weights to ensure ideal fit and drape. Standard patterns can be adapted but may require gauge adjustments.
- Store projects-in-progress in large resealable plastic bags to prevent yarn from unraveling and losing structure.
- Wash gently by hand using a wool wash or no-rinse soak. Lay flat to dry to maintain the yarn’s loft and shape.
With their incredible softness, dramatic texture, and blazing-fast project speed, it’s no wonder super bulky yarns have become a favorite for crafters of all skill levels. If you’re looking for satisfying nearly-instant gratification and want to create irresistibly snuggly projects, grab some super bulky yarn and let the cozy knitting begin!
Check out The Loopy Ewe for all your crochet supply needs. With one of the widest selections of crochet yarns around, you can find any weight from fingering to super bulky in natural fibers like cotton, wool, and alpaca. The Loopy Ewe also offers patterns, kits, and accessories specially curated for crocheters. Browse their site to discover new designers and get inspired by beautifully crafted handmade creations as you stock up on all the materials you need for your next project.
FAQ: Knitting with Super Bulky Yarns
- What are super bulky yarns?
Super bulky yarns refer to the thickest, chunkiest yarns available, categorized as a weight 6, 7, or 8 on the yarn weight scale used by yarn manufacturers. They are much thicker than the average worsted weight or bulky yarn. Super bulky yarns are also known as “roving yarns” or “mega yarns.” They have a very wooly, substantial texture and lofty appearance.
- What types of projects work well with super bulky yarns?
The thick, quick-knitting properties of super bulky yarn make it ideal for all kinds of cold-weather accessories that provide warmth and texture. Popular projects include cowls, shawls, ponchos, wraps, sweaters, cardigans, coats, throws, blankets, scarves, hats, mittens, fingerless gloves, ear warmers, boot cuffs, and slippers. The cozy, comforting texture of super bulky yarn is perfect for snuggly statement pieces.
- What are some recommended super bulky yarns from The Loopy Ewe?
- Woolstok North by Blue Sky Fibers – 100% fine Highland wool, single-ply, available in natural white and grey shades. Very chunky and squishy.
- Caracol by Malabrigo – Merino wool blended with contrasting black or white thread to create thick and thin variations when kettle dyed. Rich, heathered colors.
- Rasta by Malabrigo – Super Bulky, 100% merino wool yarn that’s slightly felted. Great for hats, cowls, scarves, baby sweaters, or even a pair of super-snuggly mittens.
- Lanalpaca by Urth Yarns – A fuzzy, wooly boucle-style yarn with lofty texture, made of 50% superfine baby alpaca and 50% merino wool. Available in 15 soft, tones.
- What are some benefits of using super bulky yarns?
Super bulky yarns provide many advantages including:
- Very quick knitting time so projects work up faster
- Excellent insulation against cold due to dense and lofty fabric
- Distinctive, dramatic visual textures add bold interest
- Approachable for beginners since stitches are easier to see and manipulate
- Allow for all kinds of garments, accessories, and home goods
- Extremely durable construction resists pilling, holes, and wear and tear
- What are some good starter projects with super bulky yarn for beginners?
Ideal beginner-friendly projects include:
- Scarves or cowls with basic garter, stockinette, or seed stitch
- Simple hat or beanie using straight knitting or knitting in the round
- Easy fingerless gloves or mittens
- Chunky cabled headband or wrist cuffs
- Cozy blanket squares that can be seamed together later
- What needle size is recommended for super bulky yarns?
The thicker texture of super bulky yarns requires appropriately sized knitting needles to create an even, drapey fabric. Recommended needle sizes can range from US 10 (6 mm) up to US 17 (12 mm) or higher. Always check the yarn’s label for the manufacturer’s suggested needle size. Swatching is very important to ensure you achieve the intended gauge.
- How should items made with super bulky yarn be cared for?
Proper care is important in maintaining the loft, texture, and appearance of super bulky yarn projects. Always gently hand wash finished objects with a specialty wool wash or no-rinse soak. Avoid agitation, never wring, and lay flat to dry to preserve the dimensional thickness of the yarn’s fibers.
- Where can you buy supplies for super bulky yarn projects?
A top supplier like The Loopy Ewe specializes in super bulky as well as all weights of premium yarns, tools, patterns, kits, and inspiration for knitters and crocheters of all skill levels. They carry all the materials you could need for any super bulky yarn creation. Their winding service prepares skeins for easier knitting.
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