Big, bold and brilliant, jumbo knitting and crocheting have exploded in popularity in recent years. The coziness, the statement-making, ease and quickness of transforming yarn with knitting needles and crochet hooks get you inspired. What’s stopping you from trying the jumbo crafts? In this blog, we’ll walk you through the cozy world of jumbo knitting and crocheting. Get ready for absolute fun when you’ve got KnitPro tools and accessories to support you.
What is Jumbo Crafting?
Crafting with jumbo-weight yarn and knitting needles or crochet hooks matching the yarn weight has been here for some time. It has made its way among crafters. Now, yarn can be both knit and crocheted and it’s up to the maker to make the decision of the craft form. The things to note are- Jumbo crafting is forgiving, you do not have to swatch aggressively and they are quickly done, plus use very basic sticthes.
All you need to do is get the materials and plan your projects.
Jumbo Knitting Needles
Traditional knitting needles typically range from 2mm to 10mm in diameter, but jumbo knitting needles start at around 15mm and can go up to 50mm or larger! KnitPro offers the option of 20.00mm (US 36 ), 25.00mm (US 50), 30.00mm and 35.00mm sizes in various lengths. You can explore them in various needle types - single pointed knitting needles for back and forth projects, double pointed needles for projects knit in the round and even circular knitting needles for projects knit back and forth and in the round. The needles are available in lightweight birch wood to prevent hand fatigue. The smooth, rounded tips prevent splitting thick yarns while the cable is strong enough to handle the project’s weight..
Jumbo Crochet Hooks
Jumbo crochet hooks similarly dwarf their conventional counterparts. Jumbo hooks begin around 15mm (US P/Q) and extend to 40mm or larger. KnitPro offers 20.00mm, 25.00mm (US 50), 30.00mm and 35.00mm single-ended crochet hooks. Ergonomics becomes especially important as you work best with comfortable grips or handles to reduce strain during prolonged crafting sessions.
Choosing Yarn for Jumbo Projects
The right yarn is crucial for jumbo crafting success. Super Bulky (Category 6) is the starting point for jumbo projects. Jumbo (Category 7) is specifically designed for large needles/hooks. Roving yarn is another option made from unspun wool that leans towards coziness. T-shirt Yarn made from recycled fabric strips creates sturdy, textured projects. And, lastly, there’s arm Knitting Yarn is extra-thick specialty yarns designed for the largest projects
When purchasing yarn for jumbo projects, remember that you'll need significantly less yardage than for traditional projects. Many crafters experiment with holding multiple strands of thinner yarn together to achieve the desired thickness.
What Can You Make? Project Ideas for Jumbo Knitting and Crocheting
Jumbo knitting and crocheting excel at creating some statement-making projects. While it’s not an everyday preference
Blankets - Jumbo blankets can be completed in just a few hours. However, start with a little planning. Think of the blanket dimensions and then work out the yardage. Try out a gauge swatch before you start with the project. Jumbo yarns cover more in comparison to other yarns, but the project will require a few hours or days. You can choose knitting or crocheting according to your skill level. You can follow our guide on how to knit a really chunky blanket.
Home Decor - Oversized baskets, poufs, ottomans, and pillow covers are some wonderful projects made with jumbo yarn. You can choose to crochet them for a dense and sturdy design.
Fashion Items: Statement scarves, cowls, and beanies with impressive texture work with the heavier weight yarn.
These projects also make excellent gifts, especially last-minute ones, as they stitch up rather quickly.
Tips for Jumbo Crafting Success
- Mind your yarn tension as it is challenging with jumbo tools. Keep stitches loose enough to work but tight enough not to come apart.
- Start small with projects like a chunky cowl or scarf before attempting a king-sized blanket.
- Rest frequently, as jumbo projects can be physically demanding. Take breaks to prevent hand, wrist, and arm strain. Also, work on a table or on your lap to support the weight.
- Count carefully, as with fewer stitches, each stitch becomes more important. Count regularly to avoid mistakes.
- Choose simple stitch pattern,s whether you knit or crochet. Complex stitch patterns can get lost in jumbo yarn. Cables won’t come out as beautifully as with lighter-weight yarns. Simple stitches like garter and stockinette are perfect for knitting projects while working with basic crochet stitches shows off the yarn best.
Jumbo crafting offers unique pleasures. The weight and warmth of these projects bring immediate comfort, and the dramatic texture draws attention and admiration. For beginners, jumbo crafting provides an accessible entry point where progress is visible immediately. For experienced crafters, it offers a refreshing change of pace and new creative possibilities.
So grab those oversized tools, some gloriously chunky yarn, and prepare to create something both cozy and spectacular. Explore the Jumbo range from KnitPro for knitting needles and crochet hooks.
