Knitting with bulky yarn is the best way to quickly create warm, cozy projects. If you’re making blankets, scarves, or sweaters, this thick yarn works up quickly and has a soft, plush feel.

But with so many options, which bulky yarn is best? Some are soft but shed too much, and others hold up well but feel rough. Finding the right one can be tricky.

That’s where this list comes in. I’ve gathered best bulky yarns to help you pick the right one for your project. I’ll break them down by fiber, softness, durability, and best use.

No more guessing—just reliable yarn choices for easy, comfortable knitting. Let’s get started!

What to Look for In a Bulky Yarn?

Not all bulky yarns are the same. Some feel soft and luxurious, while others are sturdy but rough. So how do you choose? Let’s see what I look for:

1. Fiber Type

The material makes a big difference.

• Wool – Warm, stretchy, and breathable. Great for winter projects.
• Acrylic – Affordable, soft, and easy to wash. Good for beginners.
• Blends – The best of both worlds. Wool-acrylic mixes are warm and easy to care for.

2. Softness vs. Durability

Do you want softness or strength? Some yarns feel like a cloud but may pill over time. Others hold up well but can be scratchy. Find the balance that works for you.

3. Bulky vs. Super Bulky

• Bulky (Category 5) – Thick but easy to handle. Great for sweaters and hats.
• Super Bulky (Category 6) – Extra thick and works up fast. Perfect for blankets and chunky scarves.

4. Ease of Use

Some bulky yarns split easily or are hard to work with. If you’re a beginner, look for a smooth, non-slippery texture. It will make your knitting much easier.

The right bulky yarn makes all the difference. Now, let’s look at the best options!

Best Wool Bulky Yarns

Bulky wool yarns are ideal for creating cozy, warm, and quick-to-finish projects like sweaters, blankets, and accessories. Let’s see some top-rated bulky wool yarns to consider for your next knitting or crocheting project:

1. Malabrigo Mecha

This wool yarn is soft, warm, and slightly fuzzy, perfect for cozy wearables. It’s hand-dyed, so each skein has a somewhat different look. It’s easy to knit with and holds its shape well.

• Soft, 100% merino wool
• Slight sheen with a slight halo effect
• Works best in earthy tones, deep blues, and warm reds
• Great for living rooms and reading nooks

If you want to know more, Click here.

2. Cascade 128 Superwash

A thick, machine-washable merino wool yarn. It’s great for everyday projects, especially for people who want natural fibers but need something easy to clean.

• It is super soft and holds warmth well
• It doesn’t feel, even after washing
• It looks great in neutral shades like gray, cream, and navy
• Works well in bedrooms and cozy sitting areas

3. Brooklyn Tweed Quarry

This yarn has a rustic, woolly feel, perfect for projects that need structure. Its slightly tweedy look makes it great for textured knits.

• Firm but not scratchy
• Slightly heathered appearance
• Best in forest greens, mustard yellow, and charcoal
• Suited for study rooms or mountain cabin-style decor

To learn more, click here.

4. Blue Sky Fibers Woolstok Jumbo

A thick, airy wool yarn that knits up quickly. It’s lightweight despite its size, making it comfortable for large pieces like blankets.

• Super bulky but soft to the touch
• Holds heat well without feeling too heavy
• Looks beautiful in creamy white, deep red, and rich brown
• Ideal for large living spaces or cozy dens

5. The Fibre Co. Tundra

A luxurious blend of alpaca, merino, and silk, this yarn is incredibly soft with a slight sheen. It drapes well and is great for special projects.

• Silky smooth with a touch of stretch
• Slightly fuzzy but still defined
• Best in soft pastels, deep plums, and icy blues
• Perfect for bedrooms or relaxing lounge areas

For more information, click here.

Best Acrylic Bulky Yarns

Bulky acrylic yarns are popular among crafters for their affordability, durability, and ease of care.They are ideal for projects like blankets, scarves, and hats that require warmth and quick completion.

6. Bernat Softee Chunky

A budget-friendly, easy-care yarn that works up fast. It’s soft and durable, making it perfect for beginners.

• Machine-washable and long-lasting
• Doesn’t pill easily
• Best in bright colors like teal, pink, and sunny yellow
• Great for kids’ rooms and playful spaces

7. Lion Brand Hometown USA

It is a smooth, thick acrylic yarn that’s easy to work with. It’s a great choice for quick projects, especially scarves and blankets.

• Soft but not too stretchy
• It comes in solid and variegated colors
• Looks best in bold jewel tones, classic navy, and warm taupe
• Works well in casual living rooms and dorm rooms

Click here for more details.

8. Premier Yarns Serenity Chunky

A plush acrylic yarn with a slight shine. It feels extra soft and is great for projects that need a touch of elegance without breaking the bank.

• Super soft and silky
• Works well for delicate but sturdy knits
• Best in rich burgundy, emerald green, and soft grays
• Perfect for sophisticated lounges and bedroom accents

Find out more by clicking here.

9. Red Heart Hygge

A fluffy, extra-soft acrylic yarn with a fuzzy texture. It’s great for warm accessories and cozy home decor.

• Slightly textured but still easy to knit
• Holds warmth well without being too heavy
• Best in dusty rose, soft blue, and creamy white
• Suited for reading corners and soft bedding accents

10. Caron Tea Cakes

A self-striping bulky yarn with long color changes. It mixes acrylic and wool, giving it extra warmth without high maintenance.

• Great for gradient effects in projects
• Slightly heathered appearance
• Works well in autumn tones, soft purples, and ocean blues
• Ideal for boho-inspired decor and craft rooms

Best Bulky Blends

Bulky yarn blends combine different fibers to offer unique textures, warmth, and durability, making them ideal for a variety of knitting and crochet projects.

11. Plymouth Encore Mega

A mix of wool and acrylic that’s both warm and durable. It’s great for everyday projects that need a bit of stretch and structure.

• Soft but holds its shape
• Machine-washable for easy care
• Looks best in classic neutrals, deep greens, and navy
• Works in modern living spaces and study rooms

12. Patons Alpaca Blend

A blend of alpaca, acrylic, and wool, giving it a soft feel with extra warmth. It has a slightly fuzzy texture but is still defined.

• There is a slight halo effect, but not too fluffy
• Drapes well for scarves and shawls
• Best in earthy tones, rust orange, and sky blue
• Suited for cozy cabins and nature-inspired interiors

13. Debbie Bliss Roma

A luxurious mix of wool and alpaca, perfect for chunky sweaters and accessories.

• Warm but breathable
• Holds up well over time
• Works best in moody shades like deep purple, forest green, and charcoal
• Ideal for warm sitting areas and rustic decor

14. Drops Andes

It blends wool and alpaca, making it soft but firm. It’s a great choice for textured knitting.

• It has a smooth but slightly fuzzy look
• Holds cables and stitch patterns well
• Best in soft neutrals, marled grays, and warm browns
• Perfect for classic home decor and warm blankets

15. Knit Picks Biggo

A lightweight but thick wool-acrylic blend that’s great for soft, wearable projects.

• Super soft with a bit of stretch
• Doesn’t pill easily
• Works well in cool blues, warm reds, and mustard yellow
• Suited for casual home spaces and winter accessories

Best Extra Thick Bulky Yarns

When seeking extra-thick, super bulky yarns for cozy and quick-to-complete projects, consider the following top-rated options:

16. Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick

A mix of wool and acrylic, this yarn is thick, warm, and easy to work with. It’s great for beginners and knits up fast.

• It is slightly stretchy and holds its shape well
• Soft but durable for everyday use
• Best in neutral grays, deep reds, and navy blues
• Ideal for cozy living rooms and warm winter blankets

17. Loopy Mango Merino No. 5

A luxurious, 100% merino wool yarn with a super chunky feel. It’s soft and airy, perfect for oversized scarves and sweaters.

• Ultra-soft with a smooth finish
• Works up quickly for last-minute projects
• Looks best in soft pastels, earthy greens, and mustard yellow
• Perfect for fashion-forward home accents and statement pieces

18. Bernat Blanket Big

A plush, chenille-style yarn that’s ultra-soft and perfect for blankets. It’s also machine-washable, making it great for daily use.

• Thick and fluffy, great for home decor
• It feels like a soft cloud in your hands
• Best in cream, dusty rose, and sky blue
• Suited for nurseries, cozy corners, and lounge areas

19. Cascade Magnum

A 100% Peruvian Highland wool yarn that’s extra thick and warm. It has a slightly rustic texture but is still soft enough for wearable knits.

• Warm, slightly firm texture
• Holds structure well for oversized sweaters
• Works best in rich jewel tones, classic black, and autumn browns
• Great for rustic decor and bold winter accessories

20. Red Heart Irresistible

It is a super bulky, 100% acrylic yarn perfect for big, chunky knits. It’s great for beginners and is available in fun colors.

• Soft and smooth, easy to work with
• It doesn’t shed or pill easily
• Best in bright reds, blues, and soft neutrals
• Perfect for bold home decor and playful winter wear

Best Specialty Bulky Yarns

Specialty bulky yarns with unique textures and effects can add depth and interest to your knitting or crochet projects. Let’s see some top choices to consider:

21. Lion Brand Go For Faux

A faux fur bulky yarn that creates a plush, luxurious look. Perfect for accent pieces like pillows, throws, and trendy accessories.

• Soft and fluffy, it feels like real fur
• Works up fast for dramatic results
• Best in classic black, cream, and silver gray
• Ideal for modern home decor and high-fashion accessories

22. Noro Kureyon Air

A self-striping bulky yarn made of 100% wool. It has a rustic texture but softens after washing.

• Beautiful color changes for artistic knits
• It is slightly rough at first but softens over time
• Looks great in multicolored blends, earthy greens, and deep blues
• Works well in bohemian-inspired interiors and statement pieces

23. Knit Collage Daisy Chain

A hand-spun wool yarn with tiny floral accents spun into the fibers. It’s lightweight but still bulky enough for warm, cozy projects.

• Fun and artistic with unique textures
• Soft and breathable for wearable knits
• Best in soft pastels, neutral creams, and warm golds
• Perfect for whimsical decor and creative accessories

24. Manos del Uruguay Franca

A hand-dyed merino wool yarn with a smooth, silky texture. It’s lightweight but still thick enough for warm knits.

• Rich, deep color variations
• Soft with a slight sheen
• Looks best in wine reds, stormy blues, and rich purples
• Suited for elegant living spaces and stylish knitwear

25. Tjockt Martta the Merino

A hand-dyed, ultra-bulky merino yarn that’s soft, fluffy, and perfect for statement pieces. It’s ideal for arm knitting or oversized throws.

• Super soft and cloud-like texture
• It works extremely fast
• Best in classic whites, deep emerald, and muted grays
• Ideal for luxurious blankets and modern home decor

Tips for Knitting with Bulky Yarn

Knitting with bulky yarn is fun but comes with a few challenges. The good news is that a few simple tricks can make your projects smoother and your stitches look better.

1. Choose the Right Needles

The bulky yarn needs big needles. If your needles are too small, your stitches will be tight and stiff.

• Bulky (Category 5) – Use US 10–11 (6–8 mm)
• Super Bulky (Category 6) – Use US 13–17 (9–12 mm)
• Jumbo (Category 7) – Use US 19+ (15+ mm)

If you want looser stitches, increase the needle size. For tighter stitches, decrease the size.

2. Watch out For Splitting and Shedding

Some bulky yarns split easily, especially acrylic blends. Others shed, leaving fluff everywhere.

• Use blunt-tip needles instead of sharp ones. They slide through stitches better.
• Work with smooth, steady movements. Rushing can cause splitting.
• Avoid excessive pulling—some yarns break if stretched too much.

3. Block Your Projects for A Polished Look

Bulky yarn projects can stretch, curl, or look uneven. Blocking helps fix that.

• For wool yarns – Steam blocking works best. Hold a steam iron above (not on) the fabric and let it relax.
• For acrylic yarns – Try the “killing” method—lightly steam, but don’t press too hard, or it will flatten.
• For blends – Check the yarn label. Some need wet blocking, while others need gentle steam.

4. Try These Easy Bulky Yarn Patterns

• Chunky scarves are great for beginners.
• Cozy blankets – Work up in no time!
• Oversized hats – Warm and stylish.
• Quick sweaters – Fewer stitches, faster results.
• Textured cushions – Add a handmade touch to your space.

Bulky yarn makes knitting faster and more satisfying. Follow these tips, and your projects will look better, last longer, and be even more enjoyable!

Conclusion

Bulky yarn is warm, soft, and easy to knit with. It works quickly, perfect for blankets, scarves, sweaters, and more.

In this article, I shared some of the best bulky yarns, from wool to acrylic to specialty blends. I also gave tips on choosing the right yarn, preventing common issues, and making your projects look great.

Now, it’s your turn. Try a few and see what works best for you. Experiment with different fibers, textures, and colors.

I’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite bulky yarn? Please drop a comment below, and let’s talk about it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between Bulky and Super Bulky Yarn?

Bulky yarn (Category 5) is thick but manageable, while super bulky (Category 6) is even thicker, creating chunkier stitches and faster projects. Both work well for warm, cozy knits.

How Many Skeins of Bulky Yarn Do I Need for A Blanket?

It depends on size and stitch pattern, but you’ll need about 6–8 skeins for a lap blanket, while a full-size blanket may take 10 or more.

Does Bulky Yarn Stretch Over Time?

Yes, especially wool and wool blends. Acrylic tends to hold its shape better. Blocking helps control stretching and keeps your project looking neat.

Is Bulky Yarn Good for Beginners?

Yes! The thick strands make it easier to see stitches and projects knit up faster, which helps beginners gain confidence and finish items quickly.

How Do I Store Bulky Yarn Properly?

Please keep it in a breathable container to prevent dust and moisture buildup. Avoid stacking too tightly to keep the fibers from getting squished or stretched.