Super Bulky Yarn: What It Is, Which Needles, How Much You Need
Short answer: super bulky yarn (also called super chunky, weight 6) is one of the thickest yarns you can buy: it knits at 7–11 stitches per 4 in on US 11 (8 mm) needles or larger. It's the yarn behind one-evening beanies, weekend sweaters and chunky blankets.
Super bulky vs bulky vs chunky
| Weight | Also called | Stitches per 4 in | Typical needles | Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 · Bulky | chunky | 12–15 | US 9–11 (5.5–8 mm) | BeMe, 3.5 oz / 131 yd |
| 6 · Super bulky | super chunky | 7–11 | US 11–17 (8–12.75 mm), up to US 50 for blankets | FACES, 7 oz / 109 yd |
| 7 · Jumbo | giant roving, XXL yarn | 6 or fewer | US 17 (12.75 mm) and up, or arm knitting | — |
See all 8 weights in our yarn weight chart.
How much super bulky yarn do you need?
Amounts for FACES (7 oz / 109 yd per skein), from our own yarn requirement charts. Always check your pattern.
| Project | Skeins of FACES | Approx. yardage |
|---|---|---|
| Beanie | 1 | 109 yd |
| Single-loop cowl | 1 | 109 yd |
| Double-loop cowl | 2 | 218 yd |
| Scarf | 2 | 218 yd |
| Long scarf | 3 | 327 yd |
| Sweater, sizes XS–M | 4–6 | 436–654 yd |
| Sweater, sizes L–XXL | 5–7 | 545–763 yd |
| Cardigan, sizes XS–M | 5–6 | 545–654 yd |
| Cardigan, sizes L–XXL | 6–7 | 654–763 yd |
| Blanket | 8–10 | 872–1,090 yd |
Which needles to use
For garments and beanies, use US 17–19 (12–15 mm) needles: the fabric is dense but stretchy. For blankets, go up to US 36–50 (20–25 mm) for a lighter fabric with better drape. Wooden needles grip the yarn a little and weigh less, so they're comfortable for beginners. Full details in our guide needles for chunky and super bulky yarn.
Great for beginners
With super bulky yarn you see progress fast and every stitch is easy to read, so mistakes are easy to fix. Start with a beanie, cowl or scarf: free patterns, videos and a kit on our Learn to knit page, and more ideas in free knitting patterns. Free US shipping on orders over $99, duties and taxes included.
FAQ
Is super bulky yarn heavy?
It weighs more per yard than a fine yarn, but good Highland wool is lofty. For blankets, use big needles (US 36–50): the fabric stays open and lighter.
Can I crochet with it?
Yes, with an N/P-15 (10 mm) hook or larger. Crochet fabric comes out denser than knitting.
How do I wash it?
By hand in water up to 86 °F (30 °C) with a gentle wool wash, without rubbing or wringing, then dry flat.