I'm so excited! You're going to love this…it's time to announce the annual JOANN 2023 Spring Stitch Along!
Drum roll, please…
But before I tell you what we're making, let me tell you there's something for both knitters and crocheters. They are different project types, but no matter which you choose, you'll have fun. I'm sure of it.
I'll take care of the knitting project and Mikey of The Crochet Crowd will be helping the crocheters. We all get to join in the fun.
[Read more…]Which are my favorite Caron Cakes yarns? Aren't you just dying to know?!
But, first of all, what a delicious name! Caron – you did well naming these tasty yarn morsels, for sure!
It's not just because they look totally scrumptious, but because of the way they're wound and the shape they form. They look just like a cake, flat on the bottom and top. And, you know what? This makes them stackable and easy to store either in a tub on their side or stacked on a shelf.
But, believe me, you won't be storing them for long. You'll want to get going on some projects as soon as you get your hands on these yummy cakes!
Another great feature of these cakes is that you pull the yarn from the center, which helps reduce tangling, and you can see the colors. I love center-pull cakes. I find it much easier to match the color changes since you can actually see the colors change from the outside to the center and vice versa.
If you want absolute continuity of color changes, search for cakes that look as close to identical from the top as possible. Or, at least try to ensure the outside of your first cake matches the inside of the next one. If it doesn't, you'll end up winding off yarn to keep the color changes correct.
If you're ok with your Caron Cakes yarns changing color wherever it happens, just dive right in and grab what you need. I shouldn't say ‘need'…grab what you WANT!!
You know you'll find just the right project in the end. I'll help you with a few suggestions soon, but let's chat more about the yarny goodness that is Caron Cakes yarns.
Remember in the old days when you wanted a striped project? First, you had to buy a whole ball of each color you wanted to use. Then, once you started the project, you had a couple of options. Either carry yarn up the sides of your project and make sure you didn't pull them too tight. Or cut your yarn after each color change and weave in a ton of ends after you finished.
Then, some brilliant person came up with the idea of making yarn that changes color as you work. GENIUS!
Here are some things I love about Caron Cakes yarns:
By the way…you can expect to see some brand-new designs from me over the next few weeks. That means you'd better stock up now so you're ready to go as soon as these patterns hit the web!
In reverse order…are you ready?
TA-DA!
Have you touched this yarn? If you haven't, YOU NEED TO!
It's incredibly soft to the touch; it's like petting a cat or a rabbit, but don't worry…no animals were harmed in the production of this super-soft yarn.
Here's the official rundown:
Weight: Bulky (5)
Contents: 58% Acrylic, 42% Nylon
Skein Weight: 8.8 oz/ 257 g
Yardage: 530 yd/ 485 m
Knitting Gauge:
15 sts – 20 rows = 4″ (10 cm)
Crochet Gauge:
12 sc – 13 rows = 4″ (10 cm)
Suggested Knitting Needle:
6.5 mm, US – 10.5
Suggested Crochet Hook:
6.5 mm, US – K/10.5
It's the high percentage of nylon that gives this yarn its silky-soft cashmere-like feel.
And look at that yardage! Normally it's only lace-weight yarn that comes in such a great length. Fantastic!
See how you feel about the weight. You might think it feels lighter than a bulky weight, but the halo formed by the nylon fibers will help to bulk it up. Be sure to check your gauge if you're using a pattern that's not specifically written for this yarn.
Here's what others have said…
Doesn't get any better than that!!! Just make sure NOT to throw this one in the dryer! Machine wash cold, shake it out, then lay flat to dry.
Now for number 2 in my Caron Cakes yarns top 3!
Drum roll, please…
Here's another beautiful blended yarn. This time it's a blend of cotton and acrylic, so it's also lovely and soft to work with.
Here's the details:
Weight: Medium (4)
Contents: 61% cotton, 39% acrylic
Skein Weight: 8 oz. / 227 g
Yardage: 481 yd. / 440 m
Knitting Gauge:
17 sts – 26 rows = 4″ (10 cm)
Crochet Gauge:
14 sc – 16 rows = 4″ (10 cm)
Suggested Knitting Needle:
5 mm, US – 8
Suggested Crochet Hook:
5 mm, US – H/8
Check out the subtle color shading. It's just gorgeous!
This yarn looks fabulous on its own and really stands out when used with a good contrast yarn in a fair isle or stranded colorwork stitch pattern.
It still has great yardage. However, cotton is a bit heavier than nylon, so you'll end up with a different feel from the Caron Latte.
Here's what some fans have to say:
Seriously – check it out! This one, you can machine wash cold, gentle cycle, and tumble dry low.
And, now…for my number one pick…
Let's have a big round of applause! You KNOW how much I love color, and these shades are just SO bright and cheerful that I couldn't resist!
Here's how this one shapes up:
Weight: Medium (4)
Contents: 100% acrylic
Skein Weight: 8 oz. / 227 g
Yardage: 407 yd. / 372 m
Knitting Gauge:
17 sts – 22 rows = 4″ (10 cm)
Crochet Gauge:
13 sc – 14 rows = 4″ (10 cm)
Suggested Knitting Needle:
5 mm, US – 8
Suggested Crochet Hook:
5 mm, US – H/8
It still has great yardage. You gotta love these cakes! 100% acrylic makes this one machine washable on a cold cycle and tumbler dry low.
Let's hear from some other crafters:
Like I said…look out for some brand new designs coming soon, but for now. Click on over to Caron Cinnamon Swirl Cakes, Caron Blossom Cakes, and Caron Latte Cakes and buy some yarn, so you're ready to go. Then, as soon as these projects drop, you can hit the ground running.
As promised – here are a few pattern suggestions. Though the Cake Off is long gone, the patterns are still good, so check these out!
HINT: THERE MIGHT BE AN OFFER RUNNING ON THE YARN RIGHT NOW, SO DON'T MISS OUT!
Marly's favorites from the Caron Cakes line are the original Caron Cakes (the classic 80% acrylic/20% wool worsted weight), Caron Cotton Cakes (a cotton-acrylic blend great for warm weather projects), and the Macchiato Cakes (a cozy acrylic/wool blend). Each has its own personality and best uses… the original is an all-purpose workhorse, the Cotton Cakes is perfect for summer and kitchen items, and the Macchiato brings extra warmth and drape to fall and winter projects. Check out this post for Marly's specific love for each one!
Honestly… so much! The original Caron Cakes is a versatile worsted weight that self-stripes beautifully. Shawls and wraps showcase the color transitions gorgeously. Scarves and cowls are classic one-skein Caron Cakes projects. Blankets in garter stitch, shell stitch, or simple stripes look beautiful with the automatic color changes. Hats and mittens work up quickly. The yarn is popular for baby items too since the wool content adds warmth and softness. Simple stitch patterns let the self-striping be the star… the yarn does the hard work!
The fiber content changes everything! Cotton Cakes is a cotton-acrylic blend instead of acrylic-wool. That means it's breathable, machine washable, great for warm weather, and perfect for kitchen and bath items. It's also great for baby items since cotton is gentle on sensitive skin. The trade-off compared to the original is that it has less memory and elasticity… it's slightly stiffer and doesn't spring back the way wool-containing yarn does. But for summer tops, dishcloths, market bags, and beach accessories, Cotton Cakes is absolutely ideal.
Michaels stores and Michaels.com are the exclusive retailers for the Caron Cakes family of yarns. You won't find them at other craft chains or general retailers. Michaels frequently runs yarn sales and the Caron Cakes line goes on sale regularly… worth watching if you want to stock up. If you can't get to a Michaels store, the online shop ships nationwide. When buying multiple skeins for one project, try to get them from the same dye lot for consistent color progression from cake to cake.
The original Caron Cakes contains approximately 383 yards in a 7 oz cake… a very generous amount! That's enough for a substantial scarf, a large cowl, a shawlette, or a child's blanket. For adult blankets and larger shawls, you'll need multiple cakes. The Cotton Cakes yardage varies by colorway but is similar. Because the yarns are affordable and generously yarded, they're excellent value for the amount you get. Always check the specific skein you're buying since yardage can vary slightly between the different Caron Cakes varieties.
On the search for some quick Valentine gifts to knit and crochet? Well, you just might need to check out this post. Valentine's Day is only a week away, so I promise to show you a few quickies you can whip out. But if you're super-fast at knitting or crocheting, maybe I'll show you something a little larger too!
You know…Valentine's Day cards are so expensive these days that I think it's worth spending that same amount (or sometimes less) on a skein of yarn so you can make something special for someone special. It's a multiple-whammy for you! Think about it…
You get to go shopping and buy yarn. SCORE!
You get to knit or crochet a gift or two with said yarn, giving you something to:
DO – knitting and crocheting are way cheaper than therapy!
MAKE – being creative and productive
GIVE – giving makes you feel good, doesn't it?
BRIGHTEN someone's day – makes them feel good and appreciated
Creating Valentine gifts in knit and crochet means giving someone something heartfelt, meaningful, and useful that will last way longer than a card on a table. When you put your love, time, and effort into producing something for one specific person, I'm sure they can feel it.
In fact, if you just want to share the love, you could crochet a whole bunch of these little hearts and leave them around a school, a hospital, a nursing home, or somewhere you can help lift someone's mood so they feel loved.
So, are you getting a little antsy wondering where these quick gifts are? You want to get moving on something, don't you?
Okay, okay… Here you go:
Free Valentine's Day Home Decor Patterns
Valentine's Day Sweaters & Accessories
They should keep you going for a little while. But if you happen to have a little more time on your hands, there's nothing better than a blanket to feel like you're sending a warm hug to a loved one, so check out these free Valentine's blanket patterns. If you start now, you might just be done in time!
And, if a blanket is too big or you're not up for that…maybe the upcoming Game Day Mystery Makealong is exactly what you're looking for. Make sure you're ready! I'll let you into a little secret…
You need beads and yarn!! Go check out the blog post and gather your supplies.
Get ready for kickoff!
Honestly… you're in luck! This post has some super quick projects that you can whip out. It even mentions that Valentine's Day is only a week away, so these are perfect for last-minute crafting.
Yes! Marly mentions that buying a skein of yarn can sometimes be less expensive than buying a card, and you get to make something really special. Plus, you get to go yarn shopping… SCORE!
So here's the thing… knitting or crocheting a gift means you're giving something heartfelt and useful that lasts way longer than a card. Putting your love and time into it really shows someone they're appreciated.
Well, if you're feeling ambitious, a blanket is like sending a warm hug to a loved one! If that feels like too much, there's also a mention of a Game Day Mystery Makealong that you might enjoy.
Oh, that's a great idea! You could crochet a bunch of little hearts and leave them around places like a school or a nursing home… spreading a little joy is always a good thing!
You know it's coming, so let's get ready to rumble! But we're still a couple of weeks out, so in a moment, I'm going to give you a few ideas for some pre-game day knit and crochet to help you set the mood. But, for now, let's talk party.
If you're hosting a game day party, there's always tons of preparation required. Food is probably the biggest feature, and I'm sure you already have a few ideas for serving your favorite game-day snacks. Drinks? Of course…and you know what you need in that department. But you still have a little time to set your menu on both counts.
So, have you thought about decor? Wait a minute…who shows up for the decor? It's all about the game, right? Well, yes…but it is kinda nice to set the mood.
Are you gung ho for only one team, or is it simply an excuse to get together with a bunch of friends? Whatever your motive, having a theme is such fun. I have some great ideas for throwing not just any old party but a creating game day experience you and your friends will love. Even if you support opposing teams!
For the Crochet Table…
Holly Table Runner – yeah, yeah…I know, this is Christmas, but skip the holly, use team colors, and you have the perfect game-day table runner.
For the Knit Table…
Placemat – Yup – I know…this is a placemat, but again, switch the colors, don't stop knitting, and you'll have a fabulous knit table runner before you know it.
Crochet for the cans or bottles…
Beverage Can Holder – perfect for sodas or otherwise – pick your colors.
Knit for the cans or bottles…
Coffee Press & Mug Cozy – keeps your hands from getting cold as well as it does keeping your can or bottle cool – any color you like.
A crochet seat for your drink…
Crochet Coasters for Beginners – work these in team shades for a splash of color.
A knit seat for your drink…
Knit Coasters for Beginners – you can whip out a bunch of these in no time. Work a range of colors so your guests can choose their favorite.
Red Heart Super Saver yarn is an excellent choice for these quick and easy items, especially if you'll be making a lot!
How about making some cheerleader pompoms in team colors so you can have your own cheer section? Here's some simple instructions for (no knit or crochet required) cheerleader pompoms. You could make enough that your friends get to choose which team to support. Stand up and shake those babies every time the right team scores. Don't be fooled – adults can use them too!
And, my last suggestion, which is probably the most fun…
Did you see my Stuffed Knit F-Bombs pattern last month?
Why not see if you can make enough F-Bombs in team colors to get you and your party people through game day? Is it even possible? You could make up a game to play as you watch the touchdowns fly. Keep a laundry basket out in the main viewing room and see how many of which team's colors end up in the basket at the end of the game. If you drop one, you toss one! Hadn't you better start knitting now??
Hopefully, you'll be ready in time for the game.
Details come a little later about my Game Day crafting event…don't miss out!
Stay tuned!
Honestly… yes! While the pattern is for a Christmas table runner, just skip the holly part and use your team's colors. It's a super easy way to make a festive table runner that'll be perfect for game day snacks!
So here's the thing… the page mentions Red Heart Super Saver yarn as an excellent choice, especially if you're making a bunch of things! It's great for these quick projects, and you can grab it in tons of team colors.
Nope! You don't need any knitting or crochet skills for those fun cheerleader pompoms. There are simple instructions linked right on the page so you can make them easily and get your cheer on!
Oh, that's a fun one! It's a pattern for stuffed knit “F-Bombs” that you can make in team colors. The idea is to make a game out of it during the actual game… like maybe tossing them into a basket when your team scores!
Not at all! The page actually links to beginner patterns for coasters, both knit and crochet. They're super quick projects that are perfect for adding a splash of team color without a huge time commitment.
Of course, your 2023 knit and crochet goals are top of mind right now, yes? Wait a minute…do you even have any crafting goals for this year?
No?
I know, I know – it's been a crazy festive season, and you need a bit of a break. But, sometimes, a change is as good as a rest. So, why not flip your crafting time to another skill set or try learning something new?
“But it's only the first couple weeks of January,” you say! Yes – and you know the way time flies. So, there's no time like the present to lay down some ideas to get this year off to an amazing start. You know me…go, go, 2023 knit and crochet goals!
I'm your cheering squad, teacher, friend, and mentor, and I'm here to tell you – it's time to plan your year. Okay, let's just plan these first few weeks for now.
But, you know I'll have tons of stuff for you to do this year, so clip in and hang on tight. If you know me at all, you'll know it's gonna be one heck of a ride!!!
Here's what I'm thinking…
If you make too many goals at once, you won't complete any of them. So, I'm going to suggest you take me up on this ONE goal and ONE deadline.
Stay with me…there's a method in my madness!
If you're a knitter…learn something crochet.
Here's some simple crochet projects ideal for a beginner crocheter:
NOTE: This pattern has errata – Round 4 should say:
Round 4: [Sc in next 2 sc, 2sc in next sc] 6 times, slip st in first sc of this round – 24 sc.
If you're a crocheter…learn something knit.
Check out these easy knit projects so you can get used to 2 needles (or at least two points instead of one hook.):
Now, I don't mean go ‘all-in.' You don't have to learn everything in one go. Choose something basic if you're a beginner, or if you have a little more experience, learn a new technique to build your skills. There's always another cast-on or bind-off to learn, cables, lace, or color work to try, not to mention the enormous amount of stitch patterns out there.
If you're bi-crafty…good for you, but practice your weaker craft. There's always room for improvement. Small, quick projects are ideal for practicing new skills!
Try out one of these other projects that still won't take you too long:
Adventurous Beginner Knit Beanie
Two-for-One Crochet Hat & Cowl
Warm Ribbed Crochet Boot Cuffs
And here's even more free patterns in case you run out of ideas…
Where to learn? You'll find all kinds of videos on my YouTube channel.
If you can't knit or crochet (yet), choose a craft and a small, simple project, watch a few videos, and just get started. Get some basics under your belt. It's much easier and more productive to learn by DOING! And, by the way…mistakes are a GOOD thing! We can learn from them!
Play around. Practice some new skills. Flex those creative muscles. Get yourself warmed up.
Why?
Your deadline is February 11th!
Because Sunday, February 12th, brings a special event! GAME DAY! It's Superbowl Sunday!
What does that have to do with knitting and crochet?
Well…for every Superbowl, I plan a special crafting event. I can't say too much about it just yet, but I wanted to give you a heads-up to block out your day for some serious crafting fun!
So here's the thing… if you're a knitter looking to dip your toes into crochet, I've got some super simple projects just for you! Check out the Beginner Crochet Hat, the Smiley Emoticon Keychain, or the Cozy Fringed Cowl. They're all great for getting a feel for the hook!
Honestly… learning to knit when you're used to crochet can feel a little strange at first, but it's totally doable! I recommend trying out the Knit Ombre Blanket Scarf, the Shifting Rib Knit Dishcloth, or the Basic Knit Beanie. They'll help you get the hang of those two needles!
Yes! You've got until February 11th to get a handle on your new skills or projects. It's a great little nudge to get you going before a special event I have planned for February 12th!
Oh, that's awesome that you're bi-crafty! Honestly… keep practicing your weaker craft… there's always room to improve, right? Or try learning a new technique like cables or color work. Small, quick projects are perfect for practicing those new skills!
Don't you worry about that! For your first projects, I always suggest using a smooth, single-color yarn that's worsted-weight. It's just easier to handle when you're getting used to things, and it makes the stitches much clearer to see.
It's that time of year when working with extra thick yarn, super bulky, and jumbo yarns makes so much sense. Super bulky and jumbo yarn are the big brothers of chunky yarns and are perfect if you're cold and looking for something warm to do with your hands. Blankets are the obvious choice for jumbo weight yarn, but they're definitely not your only choice.
Whether you call it wool or yarn, it's by far the best option to work with when you want your project finished quickly. Quick makes are especially great during the holidays. But these extra thick or extra chunky yarn options will do the trick if you need that cozy feel of plush comfort.
But which super bulky and jumbo are the best? We've checked them out for you, and here are seventeen of our best picks.
Note: This post has been updated. Originally written in 2020 and updated in late 2022, some of the yarns were discontinued. Moreover, some great new super chunky wool options have appeared since then. So, even if you saw this post last year, you might want to look again!
This post has affiliate links, where I get a percentage of the sale when you purchase from the link. Your price doesn't change. Thank you for your support.
Yarny goodness comes in many weights and fiber types. (See our yarn weight chart, which includes popular yarns for each weight). These super bulky and jumbo choices are sometimes available in cotton, merino, and rayon, but polyester is most often the main fiber of choice. Since they'd be pretty expensive, you don't generally find many thicker yarns in alpaca or mohair.
When you find thick yarn that's practically roving, you're probably looking at a #6 super bulky or even a #7 jumbo weight. You can use this ultra-chunky as arm knitting yarn or for finger crochet, but you'll need super thick needles for hand knitting and an extra thick sewing needle with a large eye for seaming. They're definitely for hand knitting – no knitting machine can handle such thick yarn.
A bulky scarf is great for a freezing cold winter's day. You can also try making a jumbo-weight cowl, hood, or snood you can pull up to keep your ears warm, too. You can make either of these without seaming. One thing you may not want to make? Imagine trying to walk wearing a bulky sock. Talk about uncomfortable. But a Christmas stocking might look great in a bulky version!
As for how you'll buy these beauties, sometimes, you'll find the heavier yarn weight or roving in a hank, but most often, they're sold in balls or cakes for ease of use.
Don't forget to check the ball bands for the required knitting needle or crochet hook size. You may even need 15mm or larger needles or hook sizes, depending on what you're making. Use huge crochet hooks or knitting needles to craft it into something amazing, like a snuggly chunky knit blanket.
Of course, especially if you're making clothing such as a sweater or cardigan, you MUST check your gauge. These heavier weights have very few stitches per inch, so be super careful when measuring the gauge to be sure your garment will fit as it should.
Not sure what to make? Check out 10+ Things to Do With Super Bulky Yarn. Those ideas work for jumbo yarn, too. Alternatively, here are 26 knit and crochet patterns that use these yarns.
And if you haven't seen my big teddy bear amigurumi, yet, you MUST check him out!
Want to get cozy? Here's an awesome chunky knit throw blanket pattern and a crochet chunky throw blanket pattern! These are adorable! Or check out this Bernat Chunky Yarn blanket pattern!
But now for the main feature…
Before we dig into the list of the best super bulky yarn choices, I want to mention that O'Go has Bernat Blanket as an option. You'll see the regular Bernat Blanket plus its striped version mentioned as a great choice below. In the O'Go format, you get 300 grams, 220 yards, in one donut. So, if you're looking for affordable, super chunky yarn that offers fun ways to play with color, check it out. So, check out each yarn brand below and take your pick!
I used this Red Heart Sweet Bulky for my Crochet Beginner Shells Blanket. The plush thickness of this chunky chenille yarn shows off the shell shape nicely. It works up quickly into a blanket, which is ideal for beginners who want to see their hard work, whether knitting or crochet, pay off fast.
This is chenille-style with a velvet feel, which makes it a perfect choice for making a really comfy blanket. There's also regular Bernat Blanket (not stripes, sometimes called Bernat chunky Blanket yarn or Bernat jumbo blanket yarn). It's one of those yarns that give you a lot of bang for your buck.
If you want to make a bold statement, choose a bold yarn. That's one reason I chose Bernat Softee Chunky for my VOTE sweater knitting pattern. (By the way, you can adapt it to read something other than “vote” if you prefer.)
Looking for an easy-care self-striping super bulky weight? Check it out – it's right here!
A classic wool blend: this option comes in solids as well as tweeds to make projects that pop.
This awesome texture creates a fabric that looks like shearling but is 100% nylon and machine-washable! Use it as an accent on collars for a bomber jacket look or make a baby project. It's SO super-soft.
It's soft and fluffy! This fleece works up quickly to make perfect home decor projects such as blankets.
An acrylic and wool blend, this choice is easy to care for and great for projects that should be washed often.
The hand-painted colors play the starring role in this single-ply. Use simple stitches to let the pattern shine.
The colors truly stand out in this vibrant wool! It works up quickly, so you can easily make sweaters and accessories that catch the eye.
Use this ultra-soft velvety faux-fur to accent the piece you're making or for a soft all-over texture.
The super bulky options are great. But do you want to go even bigger? Try these three jumbo yarns on for size,
I've already mentioned a couple of super bulkys that I used for my book Two Hour Neckwear. I also used this jumbo yarn for the Bow Cowl pattern in that book. Note: This jumbo option will be discontinued, so the link will take you to the clearance page, where you can find what's left.
If you enjoy the Bernat Blanket and Bernat Blanket Stripes super bulky weight (sometimes known as Bernat Big Blanket Yarn), then you'll probably also like this jumbo version: Bernat Blanket Extra. This is a super chunky chenille yarn you don't want to miss!
This unique jumbo chenille yarn is produced with loops, so using your fingers to stitch projects is easy. It's different from finger knitting but just as easy. It works especially well for double-sided projects like blankets!
There you have it! The 17 best super bulky and jumbo yarn options to keep you snug as a bug as you craft your way into coziness.
Super bulky is yarn weight #6 on the Craft Yarn Council's scale… thick, squishy, and works up fast. Jumbo is weight #7… even chunkier, often as thick as your thumb. Jumbo is what you use for arm knitting, giant chunky blankets, and projects where “cozy” is basically an understatement. Super bulky uses hooks around size L-Q (8-16mm). Jumbo goes up from there. Both are fast and fun to work with… the bigger the yarn, the quicker the gratification!
Absolutely! Super bulky and jumbo yarns work great with both. For crochet you'd use a large hook (size L and up). For knitting you'd use large needles (size 11 and up, often much larger for jumbo). Projects like chunky hats, scarves, and blankets look beautiful in both crafts with big yarn. Some people prefer the look of one craft vs. the other in chunky yarn, so try both and see what you like!
Anything where you want maximum cozy, fast! Giant throw blankets are the most popular… a chunky arm-knit blanket can be done in an hour. Scarves and cowls in bulky yarn are quick gifts. Chunky hats, headbands, and boot cuffs all work beautifully. Baskets and storage bins are another fantastic use… the stiff, thick fabric holds its shape perfectly. If you've never tried arm knitting or finger knitting with jumbo yarn… it's genuinely a joy.
It can be, but it doesn't have to be! The price depends more on the fiber content than the weight. A super bulky acrylic like Bernat Blanket yarn is very affordable and widely available. Luxury fibers like wool, alpaca, or cashmere in bulky weights get pricey quickly. The good news is that since you use fewer yards for a project, even a slightly more expensive bulky yarn can be cost-effective overall. You're buying yards, not skeins… and thick yarns have fewer yards per skein.
Pilling depends more on fiber content than yarn weight. Acrylic can pill but holds up well to washing. Wool blends pill less over time. The bigger concern with bulky yarn is weight… a very heavy bulky sweater can stretch out over time if the fiber doesn't have good elasticity. For wearables in super bulky, choose yarns with some wool or elastane content. For home decor and blankets? No worries at all. Just wash according to the yarn label and your projects will last beautifully.