What Is Super Bulky Weight Yarn?

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In this complete guide, you’ll learn all about super bulky weight yarn, including its characteristics, uses, recommended needles, crochet hooks, and much more.

Understanding Yarn Weights

Yarns are classified by their weight, which refers to the thickness of the yarn strand.

There are eight categories ranging from the thinnest lace (0) to the thickest jumbo (7).

Super bulky yarn, also known as super chunky yarn, sits at category 6. It was previously the thickest yarn before jumbo yarn (category 7) was introduced.

Learn more: Yarn Weight Guide (+ Conversion Chart)

knitted mittens in lion brand wool ease thick and quick yarn
Easy Mittens Knitting Pattern In Super Bulky Yarn

Uses For Super Bulky Yarn

Super bulky yarn is perfect for quick-knit projects.

It creates cozy, chunky fabrics suitable for various items, including:

  • Afghans and blankets
  • Scarves, hats, and cowls
  • Winter sweaters, cardigans, and ponchos
  • Home décor projects like rugs and floor pillows
  • Arm knitting and finger crochet projects

Benefits of knitting with super bulky yarn

  • Provides warmth and coziness
  • Quick completion of projects
  • Ideal for beginners due to thick strands
  • Popular Fibers for Super Bulky Yarn

Popular Fibers For Super Bulky Yarn

Super bulky yarn is available in various fibers:

  • Wool and Merino Wool
  • Acrylic and Polyester
  • Cotton
  • Nylon
  • Alpaca blends

My Favorite Super Bulky Yarns

Here are some top choices in the super bulky category:

Malabrigo Rasta

High-quality, hand-dyed yarn perfect for chunky accessories.

Wool And The Gang Crazy Sexy Wool

Lusciously soft yarn, ideal for cozy garments and accessories.

Malabrigo Noventa

Beautiful superwash Merino wool, excellent for quick-knit cozy projects.

Rowan Big Wool

100% wool yarn, great for winter knitting.

Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick

Popular machine-washable yarn, known for excellent stitch definition and rapid knitting.

Hayfield Bonus Super Chunky

Affordable yarn with extensive color options, ideal for large projects.

Paintbox Yarns Wool Blend Super Chunky

Great choice for home décor knitting and crochet.

West Yorkshire Spinners Re: Treat Super Chunky

Super soft yarn suitable for cozy knitting and crochet accessories.

What Is Super Bulky Weight Yarn

Super Bulky Yarn FAQs

What size is super bulky weight yarn?

Super bulky yarn (category 6) is thick yarn used to create heavier, chunky knit projects.

Matching gauge with thick yarns is crucial, especially for garments where sizing matters.

This yarn weight has been classified by the Craft Yarn Council.

What number is super bulky yarn?

Super bulky yarn is category 6 with a gauge of 7-12 stitches per 4 inches using 9mm–12mm (US 13–17) knitting needles.

What can you make with super bulky yarn?

Super bulky yarn is perfect for:

  • Larger home décor items (cozy blankets, rugs, pillows)
  • Quick-knit accessories (hats, mittens, scarves)
  • Warm winter garments (sweaters, cardigans)
  • Arm knitting and finger crochet
  • Plus, quick-knit last-minute gifts!

What ply is super bulky yarn?

Super bulky yarn is typically 14 ply.

How to create super bulky yarn from thinner yarns

Combine two strands of bulky yarn (category 5) or three strands of worsted weight yarn (category 4) to create super bulky yarn.

Always perform a gauge swatch to confirm your combined yarn matches the project’s stitch requirements.

Related Guide:  How To Substitute Yarn In A Knitting Pattern (An Easy Guide)

Recommended knitting needle size for super bulky yarn

Knitting needle sizes typically range from US 11 (8.0 mm) to US 17 (12.0 mm). Common sizes for balanced stitch definition and drape include US 13 (9.0 mm) or US 15 (10.0 mm).

  • Tighter fabric: US 11 (8.0 mm)
  • Looser, airy fabric: US 17 (12.0 mm)

Always knit a gauge swatch for accuracy.

Related Post: Knitting Needle Sizes + Conversion Chart (Free Printable) 

Recommended crochet hook size for super bulky yarn

Recommended crochet hook sizes range from 9.0 mm (M/N-13) to 15.0 mm (P/Q):

  • Common size: 10.0 mm (N/P-15)
  • Tighter fabric: 9.0 mm (M/N-13)
  • Looser stitches: 12.0 mm (P) or larger

Always crochet a gauge swatch to match your pattern’s requirements.

Related Post: Crochet Hook Sizes Chart (A Free Conversion Guide)

Knitting and crochet gauge for super bulky yarn

Gauge varies based on tools and tension:

Knitting Gauge:

  • Stitches: 7-11 stitches per 4 inches (10 cm)
  • Rows: 10-14 rows per 4 inches (10 cm)

Crochet Gauge (single crochet):

  • Stitches: 6-9 stitches per 4 inches (10 cm)
  • Rows: 6-10 rows per 4 inches (10 cm)

Always create a gauge swatch for the best results.

Quick & Cozy: Super Bulky Weight Yarn Patterns

If you prefer bigger and chunkier knits that you can create quickly and easily, super bulky yarn is your match made in knitting heaven!

Explore the free patterns for inspiration below—you might just find your next favorite project.

What Can I Make With Super Bulky Weight Yarn?

Explore Quick & Cozy Free Knitting Patterns!

If you love chunky knits that you can whip up quickly and easily, super bulky yarn is your match made in heaven.

Happy knitting!

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