Suitable Wool Yarn to Knit a Blanket?

theGrinch

What are the things that need to be considered when buying yarn to knit a blanket for a bed?

What would be suitable to do the job?

Silvertabby

It sounds like you are new to knitting - so unless you mean a baby/cot blanket then I'd start with something a bit smaller than a blanket!

If you are determined, then I assume that are you looking to knit (a lot of) squares to sew together. You have lots of choice - from double knit for a fairly fine blanket to extra chunky for a thicker one.

theGrinch

Thanks!

I am that is right. However, I am buying as a gift (enough yarn for a king sized blanket) for someone experienced.

She recently retired and mentioned reverting back to old hobbies with more time on her hands. As her birthday is soon, I thought it good be a good present.

Which is better (pros/cons) in your view fine or thick yarn for blankets?

Silvertabby

Wow, that's some blanket!

It can't be done as a single piece of knitting - it wouldn't fit on even the longest knitting needles - so you are looking at lots of little squares sewn together.

These squares can either be simple patterns in lots of different colours - or more intricate patterns in the same colour.

I'd go for double knit as there is far more choice of yarns out there. However, I'd be inclined to run it past your friend first, as you are talking a major undertaking in the terms of knitting - and I really think that you may be underestimating the cost of the yarn. Even using one colour from the cheapest end of the price spectrum could cost you £200 - and that's a lot to waste if your friend isn't into knitting dozens of little squares!

I'm an experienced knitter, and the perfect present for me would be enough really good quality yarn to knit a nice sweater - but even then you are talking about £60 for something like merino with a touch of cashmere.

Tealblue

What a lovely idea for a gift - but maybe talk to the knitter herself before you buy anything? It might spoil any element of surprise, but it could also save disappointment, not to mention a lot of cash.

theGrinch

Will do. I know she did a blanket but that was 30 years ago!

sew_what

I's speak to her first, but wool warehouse do some lovely coordinated kits - they're aimed at crochet but would work for a knitted blanket too.
Note this is acrylic rather than wool,
but is "nice" acrylic!!
http://www.woolwarehouse.co.uk/attic24

Sagaris

Stylecraft yarns (as used in the link above) are very good - I have used the 4 ply, DK and aran variations and they are all good - Special I think it's called. I haven't used the Life DK as I'm allergic to wool and my hands would be a horrible red mess!

indsty

I would definitely let her choose the yarn herself. Perhaps a voucher for her local wool shop if they are available?

Nile

Hi, we move threads if we think they’ll get more help elsewhere (please read the forum rule) so this post/thread has been moved to another board. If you have any questions about this policy please email forumteam@moneysavingexpert.com.

I’ve moved your thread from the ‘I wanna’ board to the ‘Crafting’ board, where it is better suited.

Regards

Nile