When you decide to arm knit a blanket, your mind probably jumps straight to the fun of the craft itself. But before you cast on your very first stitch, there is one crucial decision to make that will determine the final look, feel, and durability of your project: your yarn. This isn’t just a simple choice of colour; it’s a critical decision about material, texture, and care. This guide will walk you through the pros and cons of the most popular yarn types so you can choose the perfect one and avoid making a costly mistake.
The Critical First Question: What Are You Looking For?
Before you even begin to look at yarn, you need to think about what you want from your finished blanket. Asking yourself these three questions will help you narrow down your choices and select a yarn that is perfect for your needs.
1. The Look: What is your desired aesthetic?
Do you want a blanket with a rustic, fluffy, and incredibly chunky look? Or are you aiming for something with a cleaner, more defined stitch pattern? Do you want a shiny finish or a matte look? Your yarn choice will have the biggest impact on the overall aesthetic of your finished piece.
2. The Feel: How will the blanket be used?
Is this blanket going to be a decorative item draped over a sofa? Or will it be a cosy, everyday blanket you snuggle under on a cold winter night? The feel of the yarn against your skin is incredibly important. You’ll want to consider whether you want something super soft and luxurious or something more durable and robust.
3. The Budget: How much are you willing to spend?
Arm knitting projects require a lot of yarn, and the cost can vary dramatically depending on the material. Some materials, like luxury wools, can get expensive very quickly. It’s important to have a budget in mind before you start shopping to ensure you find a yarn that works for your wallet. —
The Main Contenders: A Breakdown of Yarn Types
Now that you know what you’re looking for, let’s explore the most popular types of yarn available for arm knitting. Each has its own unique set of pros and cons.
Merino Wool
The Pro: Merino wool is the gold standard for arm knitting. It is incredibly soft, luxurious, and creates a beautifully fluffy and light blanket. The finished result is a showstopper—it looks and feels exactly like the blankets you see in all the magazines. If you’re looking for a blanket that is a statement piece and incredibly cosy, merino is the way to go.
The Con: A critical downside of merino wool is its delicate nature. It is prone to shedding, pilling, and felting, especially with heavy use. It is also not machine-washable and requires professional dry-cleaning. Most importantly, it is the most expensive option by a significant margin. It’s not a practical choice for a blanket that will see daily use from a family with pets or small children.
Chunky Acrylic or Polyester Blends
The Pro: These yarns are a fantastic choice for a beginner. They are incredibly affordable, widely available, and come in a huge variety of colours. They are also much more durable and easier to care for than merino wool. Many chunky acrylic yarns are machine-washable and are resistant to pilling and stretching. They are a brilliant option for a blanket that is going to be used and loved on a daily basis. The texture is still very soft and chunky, giving you a beautiful result without the worry of ruining a delicate material.
The Con: While many modern acrylic blends are very soft, they may not have the same luxurious, natural feel of merino wool. They can sometimes have a slightly shinier finish and may not feel as warm as natural fibres. However, for a beginner, this is a brilliant option that gives you a stunning final result without breaking the bank.
Jumbo Cotton or Chenille
The Pro: These yarns are a great alternative for those who want a blanket that is super durable and has a very clean, defined look. They don’t have the fluffiness of wool or acrylic, which means each stitch will stand out in a beautiful, neat pattern. They are also incredibly strong and can be machine-washed without fear of felting or pilling. They are a great option for a blanket that is going to get a lot of use.
The Con: The lack of fluffiness means the blanket won’t have the same chunky, airy feel as one made from wool. It will also be significantly heavier, which can make the arm knitting process a bit more strenuous. It also won’t have the same warmth as a wool blanket, which is something to consider if your primary goal is warmth. —
How to Estimate the Right Amount
Once you’ve chosen your yarn, you’ll need to work out how much to buy. As a rule of thumb, it’s always better to buy slightly more than you need to ensure you don’t run out. Yarn is typically sold by weight.
- Small Throw (approx. 100 x 120 cm): 2 kg
- Medium Blanket (approx. 130 x 150 cm) 3 kg
- Large Blanket (approx. 150 x 200 cm): 4 kg+
These are just estimates, but they will give you a good starting point for a standard arm knitting project. Remember to always check the yarn’s label for a more accurate gauge and feel free to use a little more to ensure a nice, loose knit.
Choosing the right yarn is the most important step in creating a beautiful and long-lasting arm-knitted blanket. By taking the time to consider your budget, the desired look, and the intended use of the blanket, you can select a yarn that will give you a fantastic result you’ll be proud of. It’s the difference between a project you love and one that you regret. So, choose wisely, and enjoy the beautiful process of bringing your creation to life.
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