9 Bulky Knitting Patterns for Winter

Juniper is an unbelievably soft, wrap-style vest inspired as an eco-friendly alternative to a poly fleece vest. It can be worn open or you can add a cord to overlap the fronts and tie it closed. You could make an I-Cord or you could try this fun alternative with this tutorial by Julie "How to Make a Twisted Cord with a Kitchen Mixer." For this project we used Woolfolk Flette Bulky in Brick Red. This textured yarn is created with the finest 100% Ultimate Merino Wool. It's fun, sustainably sourced, and super soft. We also knit a version with Big Bad Wool Baby Yeti - see our pattern page below for pictures of that one!

Visit Juniper Pattern Page 

Lucia is such a quick knit - you'll be able to finish it in a few cozy evenings by the fire! It's Cocoknits Method, and the neckline is integrated right into the pattern so no going back and picking up to finish. We have two versions included in the pattern. The one shown here is Version A. It has a longer length and a full turtleneck. If you're looking for something a little lighter, our Version B is cropped with short sleeves. We knit this pattern four times with four different yarns! You can see those versions and Version B on our pattern page by following the link below. The yarn shown here is Knit Collage Sister in Driftwood. This dreamy thick-and-thin yarn is handspun and filled with character. Best of all, it comes from a woman-run company led by our friend Amy Small, who inspired our Jumbo Stitch Markers and Jumbo Stitch Stoppers. 

Visit Lucia Pattern Page

Oftentimes super-bulky yarn can have you feeling like you're swimming in your knits. That's not the case with Amy! The Cocoknits Method tailoring and cropped style allow for a fit that's comfortable to move around in, making it perfect for everyday activities. With fewer than 2 stitches per inch, you'll be done with this knit in no time. And because this pattern is a beautiful blank canvas, it's perfect for your own creative modifications. Knit with the same Knit Collage Sister yarn as Lucia, but in Jaipur Rose, we named this one after Knit Collage's owner - Amy Small!

Visit Amy Pattern Page

Say goodbye to chilly sunrises with the warm Foggy Morning Wrap. This 2x2 ribbed wrap can be worn over any top and fits nicely under a coat. It uses a provisional CO and short rows so it stays in place and rests comfortably on your shoulders. It's a great project to use up less-than-sweater quantity of yarn that you have in your stash. This pattern is also easily adapted for different gauges and sizes. It's knit in one of our favorite farm yarns: Sheep Dreams in Oatmeal, the mixture of 50/50 Shetland and Alpaca fibers will keep you warm on the coolest of days. 

Visit Foggy Morning Wrap Pattern Page

Emma is available in three different versions, and we often recommend it as an introduction to the Cocoknits Method. It's simple, timeless, and each version gives you options to make it your own. These patterns are exclusively available in the Cocoknits Sweater Workshop. This book teaches you everything you need to know to complete a Cocoknits Method Sweater. It also includes 8 Cocoknits Method patterns, in-depth instructions, tips, and techniques by Julie. 

Emma A, shown here, features an open neckline and waist shaping which prevent it from becoming too boxy, despite the yarn's thickness. We used Malabrigo Chunky in Black in this picture, but we also knit this pattern in four other yarns.

Visit Emma A Pattern Page

Emma B has a more laidback sweatshirt feel with a boatneck. We adore the detail of simple stockinette in thick yarn.

Visit Emma B Pattern Page

Emma C is the cardigan version, with a long line of rib running down the sleeves for an interesting textural detail and fabric-lined pockets prevent bulk in the hip area.

Visit Emma C Pattern Page

If you're looking for that go-to favorite sweater, look no further than Mabel. Named after the character Mabel Mora in the Hulu series Only Murders in the Building, Mabel is a loose-fitting, comfortable pullover with Cocoknits Method shoulders and tons of opportunity for customization. Try knitting the neck ribbing into a turtleneck, add cables to the body, split the hem, knit it knee length, add stripes - whatever your preference! With 10 sizes ranging from 36 to 72” bust, there's lots of options for fit as well. This unmodified version is knit with the Bread & Butter Bun, an ethically and domestically sourced (and oh-so-soft) merino yarn made from US grown wool that is dyed, spun, and finished in the US.

Visit Mabel Pattern Page

This cozy hat keeps precious heads from Newborn to Adult X-Large toasty warm! The helmet style is knitted from the top down and reflects the actual shape of the head, leaving an opening for the face, but covering the back of the head and the ears. The bulky weight yarn is extra warm and cozy, with the added bonus of being super quick to knit up. (Last minute gifts, anyone?) The stockinette stitch shows off textured yarns beautifully, like this Fleece Artist Slubby Mix.

Visit Toasty Topper Pattern Page

Your little one will look as adorable as a Little Lamb wrapped in this fuzzy sweater. It’s knit raglan style, so it’s top-down and seamless. The wrap cardigan construction allows plenty of room to grow, so it will fit longer as they get bigger. It can be secured with fabric or I-cord ties, perfect for easy on-and-off. Designed in fuzzy and soft yarns, this cozy cardigan will bring a big smile to your little one’s face. It’s a great present for any baby or toddler in your life, sized from 6 months to 4 years. This version was knit with Big Bad Wool Baby Yeti, the hypoallergenic 85% Baby Alpaca mixed with the cozy 15% Fine Merino Wool is the perfect yarn for sensitive baby skin. 

Visit Little Lamb Pattern Page 

For our final pattern, you get to make your yarn! That's right, for this DIY we're adding a modern twist on a traditional doily pattern. Knitted with recycled rag yarn it moves from a delicate table-top accessory to a chunky floor covering. Learn how to make your yarn with this tutorial "How to Make Yarn from Rags, Sheets, or Bags." Once your yarn is complete it's a super quick knit...with very fun results! We like to place one of these by the side of our bed for a cozy landing on a chilly morning. Oh, did we mention this is a free knitting pattern? Enjoy!

Visit Rag Doily Rug Pattern Page