How to Hand Crochet a Chunky Blanket in an hour

[DianeFulton]

Too

cold to go outside? Learn how to Hand Crochet this chunky blanket in about an hour

The finished blanket is 53 inches x 46 inches. You can get the yarn online (see you don’t even have to leave the house, lol) and it’s as inexpensive as $3 a skein, depending on how picky you are about choosing the color.

Here’s the video showing the technique and you get a free pattern here.

How to Make a Weighted Chunky Blanket

Creating a weighted chunky blanket combines the cozy appeal of a hand-crocheted blanket with the therapeutic benefits of a weighted blanket.

This project allows crafters to explore the tactile pleasure of working with bulky yarn while also engaging in a craft that can provide comfort and relaxation.

Below, you’ll find detailed instructions and a simple pattern to guide you through making your own weighted chunky blanket.

Understanding Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets are designed to offer gentle, even pressure across the body, mimicking the feeling of being held or hugged.

This pressure can help increase serotonin and melatonin levels, reducing anxiety and improving sleep. The typical guideline for the weight of these blankets is 10% of the user’s body weight plus one or two pounds.

Choosing Your Materials

For a weighted chunky blanket, you’ll need:

• Chunky Yarn: Look for super bulky (6) yarn for ease of hand crocheting and to achieve that plush, cozy texture. The amount of yarn will depend on your desired blanket size but expect to use around 8-10 skeins for a standard throw.
• Weighted Filler: This can be micro glass beads, plastic poly pellets, or any other washable weighted material. The total weight of the filler should correspond to the desired weight of your blanket.
• Fabric Pouches or Mesh Bags: To hold the weighted filler and distribute it evenly throughout the blanket. These should be small enough to be unobtrusive but large enough to hold the right amount of filler for your blanket’s weight distribution.
• Large-Eye Needle and Thread: For sewing the fabric pouches closed and securing them if necessary.

Planning Your Blanket

1. Size: A standard throw size (about 50” x 60”) is a good starting point for a weighted chunky blanket. Adjust the size according to your preference.
2. Weight Distribution: Plan to place a weighted pouch every 4-6 inches throughout the blanket. Sketch a grid pattern over your intended blanket size to determine how many pouches you’ll need.

Creating Weighted Pouches

1. Prepare the Pouches: If using fabric pouches, fill each one with the weighted filler. The weight in each pouch should be evenly distributed based on your total desired blanket weight and the number of pouches you plan to use.
2. Seal the Pouches: Sew each pouch shut securely to ensure the filler does not leak out.

Crocheting the Blanket

1. Foundation Chain: Using your hands or large crochet hooks, create a foundation chain to your desired width. For a 50” wide blanket, you might start with 25-30 chains, depending on your tension and yarn thickness.
2. First Row: Turn your work. Pull loops through each chain to create your first row of single crochet stitches.
3. Adding Weight: After a few rows, start incorporating your weighted pouches. Place a pouch at the end of a row, secure it with a couple of stitches to keep it in place, and continue crocheting over it. Repeat this process, distributing the pouches evenly according to your grid plan.
4. Continue Crocheting: Keep crocheting, adding weighted pouches as planned, until you reach your desired length. Ensure the weighted pouches are enclosed securely within your stitches.
5. Final Row and Edging: Once you reach the desired length, complete the final row. You can add a simple crochet edging around the entire blanket to finish it neatly.

Finishing Touches

• Weave in any loose ends with your needle.
• Consider adding a fabric backing to your blanket for extra comfort and to secure the weighted pouches further. This can be hand-stitched or machine-sewn onto your crocheted piece.

Care and Maintenance

Since your blanket contains weighted materials, it’s essential to follow care instructions carefully. If your weighted materials are washable, you can gently wash your blanket by hand or in a machine on a delicate setting. Always air dry to preserve the integrity of the yarn and weighted materials.

Creating a king-size weighted blanket is a rewarding project that results in a functional and comforting item for your home.

Whether you’re crafting for yourself or as a thoughtful gift for a loved one, the combination of the soft, chunky texture and the gentle weight of the blanket offers a unique blend of comfort and relaxation.

Enjoy the process and the cozy, comforting end product!

How to Hand Crochet a Weighted Chunky Blanket

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