The living room is the first thing guests see when they walk into your home. It’s where you entertain and unwind with family and friends, so it needs to be both warm and inviting.
But if you’re looking for a way to spice up your space without breaking the bank, there are plenty of inexpensive ways to do so. One simple option is adding a throw blanket to your sofa or sectional.
A handmade item can bring personality, style and comfort all in one—and it won’t hurt that this type of throw has become more popular than ever before!
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| A hand-knitted throw is a cozy and stylish addition to any living room. |
| Knitting a throw is a beginner-friendly project that can be customized to match your personal style. |
| Choose high-quality yarn in a color and texture that appeals to you. |
| Use larger knitting needles to achieve a chunky, cozy look. |
| Experiment with different stitch patterns to add interest and variety to your hand-knitted throw. |
1. Consider Its Size In Comparison To The Sofa
Your throw should be large enough to cover the length of your sofa, but not so large that it hangs down over both sides.
Small sofas might need a smaller throw; oversized sofas may require a larger one. If you have an odd-sized sofa or love seat, consider purchasing two throws and arranging them next to each other for maximum coverage.
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2. Consider The Color And Pattern Of Your Throw
Consider the color and pattern of your throw.
Patterns can be a good way to break up a space, bringing a sense of harmony and balance to an otherwise bland room.
As well as this, patterns can also be used to create a focal point in your living room, drawing attention to something that you want people to notice (for example: the fireplace or a beautiful painting) or simply for its own sake.
| Considerations | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Choose a color that complements the decor of your living room or adds a pop of visual interest. Consider your personal style and the mood you want to create in the room. |
| Texture | Experiment with different textures to add visual interest and depth to your throw. |
| Pattern | Choose a knitting pattern that is appropriate for your skill level and complements the overall style of your living room. You can also experiment with different stitch patterns to create a truly unique hand-knitted throw. |
3. Take Into Account The Atmosphere Your Throw Will Create
A hand-knit throw can add a cozy feel to your living room, or it can be wrapped around the back of your couch to create a sophisticated atmosphere.
A hand-knit throw can also look modern when it is draped over both ends of an accent chair in your living room, or you might want to display it folded on top of one end of the sofa for a traditional look. If you’re looking for something more eclectic, then place that handmade blanket over a round table next to two matching chairs and maybe even some flowers with fresh air from outside coming through the windows and doors.
The last thing that needs to be considered before choosing a perfect place for your new throw is the color scheme of all other pieces in your home so that everything blends together nicely and creates one cohesive style within each room
4. Consider Where To Purchase Your Throw
You can purchase a hand-knit throw in a store or online. If you’re shopping online, keep in mind that many Etsy sellers are local and may offer a variety of handmade products on their websites.
When purchasing from an Etsy seller or other website, be sure to read reviews and check out their return policy before making your purchase. You should also look for online stores with high ratings and trustworthy brands (like Target).
The quality of the material is important when selecting your throw blanket. The last thing you want is for it to shed fibers all over your living room furniture! This can happen if the yarn isn’t made well or the manufacturer didn’t take care during production processes like dyeing or finishing.
Some throws are dyed with chemical dyes which can cause allergic reactions over time if not properly cared for this includes hand wash only instructions!
If possible, buy ethically sourced materials from companies who use natural dyes such as Ultraviolet’s organic cotton knits (available at Anthropologie).
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5. Know How To Care For It Once You’ve Selected It
In the same way that you would care for any other item of clothing, a hand-knit throw should be washed gently in cold water, using a mild detergent.
Avoid bleaching products and fabric softeners, as these can damage the yarn or change its color. You should also avoid dryer sheets, which will leave a film on your knitted throw and perhaps even cause it to fade faster than usual.
Finally, never iron your hand-knit throw; if you do need to press something out of it (like ketchup stains), try using a press cloth instead of an ironing board with no steam.
The last thing you want is for your lovely hand-knitted blanket to spend all day cooped up in direct sunlight even though it’s made from wool!
Caring for Your Hand-Knitted Throw
| Care Tips | Description |
|---|---|
| Follow maker’s care instructions | Read and follow the care instructions provided for the yarn you used in your hand-knitted throw. If not provided with yarn, consult the manufacturer’s website. |
| Hand wash | Hand washing in cool water with a gentle detergent is ideal for most hand-knitted throws. |
| Air dry | Lay the throw flat to air dry, away from direct sunlight or heat. |
| Avoid tumble drying | Avoid tumbling the hand-knitted throw in the dryer, as this can cause shrinkage and damage to the fibers. |
| Store properly | Store your hand-knitted throw properly to protect it from moths and other pests. Clean the throw before storing and add a sachet of lavender, cedar or other pest-repelling herbs before wrapping it in acid-free tissue paper and storing it in a cool, dry location. |
6. Complete The Look With A Basket
You don’t have to use a basket just for blankets. You can also use it to store accessories such as books or magazines, and you can even plant flowers in them! And last but not least, they make great decorative items that add character to your home.
Whether you choose a woven basket or an oversized woven basket (the bigger the better) is up to you!
They both serve the same purpose: storing anything from blankets and throw pillows, to plants and decorative items like art pieces.
7. Protect Hardwood Floors With A Second, Flat Throw Rug
A second, flat throw rug is another great way to add warmth and color to your living room. Throws come in many different sizes, patterns and textures so you can find the perfect fit for your space.
They’re also easy to clean and maintain just toss them in the washing machine when they need a cleaning!
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8. Choose Similar Material For Other Touches In The Room
Once you’ve chosen a throw, it’s time to think about other decor touches that will complement your new investment.
In addition to the obvious throw pillows, tablecloths and rugs consider how you can use your favorite color(s) throughout the room. Wall art is another great way to add interest in a room while also tying everything together.
9. Layer Throws In Varying Sizes And Shapes
This technique is one of the easiest ways to add visual interest to your space. You can create a layered look with throws in varying sizes and shapes, as well as different colors, textures and patterns.
I like using throws that are similar in color or pattern but have different textures (such as a smooth wool blanket versus a rustic cotton throw).
Or you can layer with different materials like woven coverlets over quilted throws for an especially interesting effect.
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10. Add Pops Of Color And Texture With Throw Pillows
Throw pillows are a great way to add color and texture to your living room. Here are three ways you can incorporate them into your design:
Contrasting Colors – If you want to create a focal point, try placing two throw pillows with similar textures and patterns on either side of the couch or chair you’re sitting in. This will give your guests an eye-catching centerpiece for conversation and reading, without cluttering up other areas of the room with too many decorative elements.
Contrasting Textures – A more subtle way to use throw pillows is by using them as a contrast in texture. For example, if one pillow has a smooth fabric like velvet or satin, try placing another one next to it with leather trimming on its edges (like this one). That way you can have both warm and cool tones in one space!
Accent Color – Lastly we come back around again; this time focusing on our accent color (gray). Using gray as an accent color throughout may not be right for everyone since it’s such an unusual choice compared with traditional neutrals like browns or whites—but if done correctly then these contrasting colors will make each area feel cohesive yet fresh at once!
Adding Color and Texture with Throw Pillows
| Tips | Description |
|---|---|
| Choose pillows that complement the color scheme | Choose throw pillows that match or complement the color scheme of your living room. |
| Mix and match textures | Experiment with different textures such as velvet, leather, or woven to add texture and visual interest. |
| Vary the sizes | Mix and match throw pillow sizes to add depth and make your couch more comfortable. |
| Play with patterns | Mix different patterns to create a stylish, layered look. Choose patterns that complement each other, such as stripes and florals, or geometric patterns and solids. |
| Don’t overdo it | Be careful not to overdo it with too many throw pillows. Choose a comfortable number that doesn’t overcrowd your sofa or chairs. |
11. Create A Bold Contrast With An Accent Wall
If your living room is lacking a focal point, you can create one by using a bold color or pattern. A bold hue will make it easy to see the space as soon as you walk in, and a large-scale pattern will serve as an eye-catching backdrop for any other decor elements you choose.
If you’re looking for more ways to create contrast in the living room, try using different materials like felt or silk; a material that contrasts with the rest of your furniture can help draw attention to itself.
If you prefer something more subtle than contrasting colors or patterns, consider using shapes instead: think about contrasting square versus round tables and rectangular vases versus cylindrical ones (or even metallic vases against wooden furniture). You can also use texture think about how smooth leather feels next to velvet!
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12. Bring Greenery Indoors To Complement Your Decor Style
Greenery can be a great way to add some natural beauty to your living room. The key is to pick the right type of plant.
For example, if you choose a large plant with broad leaves that drip water and soil, it could end up looking messy on your expensive hand-knitted throw that you worked so hard on!
I suggest starting small with an air plant or succulent.
These types of plants don’t require much water and can thrive in areas that are dry most of the year. They also come in many different colors and sizes which means they can work well with any style decorating theme you have going on in your home!
Conclusion
Creating a warm and inviting living room is a great project for anyone who loves knitting. Whether you’re just getting started with the hobby or are looking to add another skill set to your repertoire, hand-knitted throws make an excellent first project.
They can be made in any size and shape and come in many different colors and patterns. They also make wonderful gifts!
Further Reading
How to Make a Chunky Hand-Knit Blanket: This step-by-step guide provides detailed instructions on how to make a cozy and stylish hand-knit blanket.
How to Hand Knit a Chunky Blanket: Learn how to make a chunky blanket without knitting needles using this easy tutorial.
How to Make a Hand-Knit Chunky Blanket: This beginner-friendly tutorial includes tips and tricks for creating a beautiful hand-knit blanket.
FAQs
What is a hand-knit chunky blanket?
A hand-knit chunky blanket is a cozy, warm blanket that is made by hand using chunky yarn and large knitting needles or arms.
What yarn is best for a hand-knit chunky blanket?
The best yarn for a hand-knit chunky blanket is soft, bulky yarn made of natural fibers such as wool or alpaca.
How much yarn do I need to make a hand-knit chunky blanket?
The amount of yarn you need to make a hand-knit chunky blanket depends on the size of the blanket you want to make. As a general rule, you should aim for at least six skeins of bulky yarn.
Do I need knitting needles to make a hand-knit chunky blanket?
No, you do not need knitting needles to make a hand-knit chunky blanket. You can use large arms or even your fingers to create beautiful, cozy blankets.
Is it difficult to make a hand-knit chunky blanket?
Making a hand-knit chunky blanket is not difficult, but it does require time and patience. With a little bit of practice, anyone can learn how to make a beautiful, cozy blanket.
My name is Hellen James, and I’m a crochet and knitting expert. I’ve been crocheting since I was just a kid, but I started taking it seriously when I realized that it was a great way to de-stress and relax. Now that I have kids of my own, I love teaching them how to do it too!