Chunky yarn blankets are all the rage from the size of the Bernat blanket extra thick yarn to the fluffy soft feel it’s pretty understandable why these blankets are so popular and sought after.
They’re super comfy and the best statement piece for your bed or couch. After making this for my aunt I wanted one for those cold fall days when all you want to do is watch movies and cozy up on the couch!
However, I will say this yarn was not the easiest to crochet at first. Although I did get the blanket finished, I tore out my work more times than I would like to admit (practice makes perfect as they say).
In this blog post, you can expect my honest review of the Bernat Blanket Extra Thick Yarn, the pattern that came with it, the issues I faced while making the blanket, and how I was able to finish the blanket error-free!
Let’s get into it.
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Why did I choose to make this type of blanket?
When I toured my aunt’s new house the first thought that popped into my head was how nice this type of blanket would look on the end of her bed or her dark brown couch.
It was a nice cozy statement piece that would tie it together with her decor. I’ve wanted to make one for so long that this seemed like the perfect time to try it out!
Is this blanket and pattern good for beginners?
At first, I would’ve said no (mainly from a little frustration) but after figuring out my mistake (which I will cover later) I would say it is ok for beginners. However, just be patient and enjoy the process!
If you find yourself running into issues, Bernat has an hour-long walk-through on YouTube that will help.
Pros to using the Bernat blanket extra thick yarn
Finding the placement is easier than standard medium worsted weight.
This Bernat extra thick blanket will keep you warm and becomes weighted making it feel like an oversized hug!
This yarn is a great statement piece for a living or bedroom and works great for gifts.
Because of the size of the yarn, the blanket can be made and finished very quickly depending on the size you want it to be.
I did start and tear out my progress multiple times, but when I re-started and finished it for the final time, I completed this blanket in a day.
New colors are periodically added to Joann stores.
At first, the options were only solid colors offered in stores, however, in the last few months they have added multi-color combinations. You can find the complete color options at a local store near you and on Joann’s website.
Cons to using the Bernat blanket extra thick yarn
The cost of the Bernat blanket extra thick yarn is not cheap!
I do understand the price point for the size and quality of the yarn, however, the price is still steep if you want to make the project a large one. For the size I made, I had to use 8 skeins of yarn with one skein costing a whopping $23.99 before tax.
Thankfully I was able to use coupons every time I purchased a skein. If you haven’t already, please download the Joann mobile app they offer all of their great coupons and it will save you a lot of money for this larger project.
I bought this yarn each time they offered a 40, 50, or 60% off one regular priced item coupon. When they offer them, you can find them listed directly in the app, on their website or you can even have one listed on the bottom of your Joann’s receipt.
I know going to the store multiple times to use single coupons each time may be excessive. However, I don’t live very far from my local Joann’s and I didn’t want to pay $200 for 8 skeins of yarn.
The Bernat blanket extra thick yarn is only sold at Joann
To purchase this yarn at a physical store, it is only available at Joann’s.
You can purchase this yarn on their website and most likely other websites like Amazon, however, I highly recommend you purchase it in-store with one of the coupons I previously mentioned (you’ll save way more $$). Most of the coupons previously mentioned may also be of use online.
Also, some online coupons may only be for online use but you can choose to pick up in-store. When you pick up an online order in-store, they also offer exclusive coupons for that option.
It can be difficult to handle for someone using this yarn for the first time
You can tell by looking at it that this yarn is bulky. But it’s even weirder working with it physically in your hands. It’s the same as driving in a small car for years and then going to a Semi-truck.
The biggest obstacle with this yarn is managing your tension. This yarn is so bulky and awkward in your hands don’t be surprised if some areas are looser or tighter. If this happens loosen or tighten your tension on the yarn to achieve a more uniform flow with the stitches.
I recommend going slow and finding your movement and comfortability with it and pretty soon, you’ll be zooming through it like a worsted weight.
You may be sore if used for long periods- so take breaks!
I had to remind myself to take breaks because it is super easy to get lost in this yarn. It moves quickly and it’s super motivating to keep going. However, your body needs breaks. I would constantly get slight cramps in my hands and wrists and feel stiff from sitting so long. Don’t ignore your body, get up stretch, and move about to reduce cramping, stiffness, and/or injury.
The Bernat Blanket Extra Thick Yarn Pattern
I used the pattern printed on the inside of the Bernat Extra Thick label of the yarn and is super simple to follow. You can also find the exact pattern instructions below
Besides the yarn, you will need the following:
- 25 or 30 mm crochet hook. This is the exact one I used!
- Yarn cutters (scissors)
- Stitch markers (optional but helpful)
- Measure tape (optional but needed if you are making it smaller or larger)
You can find the exact items listed above here.
The written pattern is easy to follow, however, if you need visual help, you can double-check the instructions by viewing the video tutorial posted by Bernat on YouTube.
This pattern is measured lengthwise not by width and consists of half-double crochets throughout the blanket with alternating rows.
On the pattern, it states to ch (chain) 110 chains loosely.
Row 1: hdc (half double crochet) in the 3rd chain from the hook continue hdc to end of chain. You should have counted 108 sts (stitches).
Row 2: Ch 2 and turn. Working into horizontal loop of each st below top 2 loops, 1 hdc in each hdc to end of row. Turn.
Row 3: Ch 2. Working in back loop only, 1 hdc in each hdc to end of row. Turn.
Repeat the last two rows until your work from the beginning is complete. Fasten off.
What I did differently
I followed the pattern completely only I changed the amount of chains to 72 instead of 110. I wanted this blanket to be long for her bed and couch and measured the length of the blanket around 6 inches taller than her height of 5’4.
She has a smaller bed and this amount of chains was perfect for that length.
When you measure and make your blanket you can make it fit your vision, however, based on your measurements you will need to keep in mind how many skeins of yarn you will need and plan accordingly as previously mentioned this yarn is more on the pricier side.
If you change up the chains as I did, then this is where the measuring tape will come in handy to measure your vision.
Overall this blanket was amazing to make and will be your favorite fluffy blanket to cozy up with. It comes in a variety of different colors to let your imagination go and anyone in contact with this blanket will love it! I hope you try out this yarn and let me know in the comments how it went for you. Also, don’t forget to share this post with a friend!
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