What Are Chunky Yarns?
The term “chunky yarn” may seem to be quite an odd term, but its meaning is pretty easy to grasp. Chunky yarn simply refers to a thicker yard which is used to crochet or knit warmer clothing and other things that are heavier in weight. Sometimes is is even used for large stitching. It will also be referred to as bulky weight yarn. It is normally used with United States size 10, US 10 knitting needles or USJ or USK crochet hooks.
There is another version called super-chunky yard and it is even thicker than chunky. It is the heaviest and thickest weight of yarn available on the market. Super chunky is usually used with US11 or larger knitting needles. Sometimes it will be used with USM or larger crochet hooks as well. There are various textures and materials that are available in the chunkier yard weights.
Among the most beautiful of the chunky yarns is cashmere. It is a soft and elegant yarn which is perfect for creating beautiful scarves and throws. Cashmere chunky comes in many colors from the softer pastels to bold bright colors to some neutral tones. Cashmere is made by combining wool that has been combed from the silky undercoat of a Cashmere goat. There are also come cashmere chunky yards which are blended with silk to make a much silkier feeling.
Then there is mohair which is another kind of elegant and silky yard fashioned from goat hair. Angora goats have very soft and silky hair which is then used to make mohair chunky yarn. Mohair is well known for its strong texture as well as the light, feathery texture it creates when it is knitted or crocheted. The Mohair chunky yarns are available in multicolored or variegated balls which might have a watercolor appearance. Certain mohair yarns are painted by hand for a one of a kind look with rainbow color patterns.
Wool chunky yarns are made out of the wool from lambs. Some of the wool chunky yarns and super chunky yarns are mixed with acrylics. Cotton chunky yarn is a natural alternative to the acrylic chunky and super chunky yarns. Some of the chunky yarns may be completely acrylic. These yarns are synthetic and are economical. This makes them easier to care for as they may have a coarser texture almost like tweed instead of the normal soft and silky feeling.
Normally chunky yarns are used for knitting or crocheting sweaters, but the super chunky types are not typically suitable for clothing other than shawls or wraps because the stitches are so large. Super chunky yarns are great for pillow covers or smaller rugs. Chunky yarn is popular for things like vests, hats and scarves. Sometimes people also use them for blankets, socks and slippers as well. You might even want to use leftover pieces to string together to make dog sweaters and other cute pieces.
No matter what items you are making with chunky yarns, you will be happy to know they are an inexpensive way to continue practicing your knitting and crocheting while making great items!