Before testing, I didn’t realize how much the choice of yarn could make or break a pillow’s look and feel. Some yarns are soft but lack durability, while others might be strong but rough against the skin. After hands-on experience, I found that the Bernat Velvet Pine Yarn 2 Pack 10.5oz #5 Bulky 315 Yards truly stood out. It’s incredibly soft, with a velvety sheen that gives pillows a luxurious feel. Its 100% polyester content makes it easy to care for—just machine wash and dry—perfect for everyday use.
While other options like the chunky JeogYong or LEREATI yarns offer bulk and vibrant colors, they tend to be rough or less refined. The Bernat Velvet’s premium quality, combined with the rich shine and smooth texture, makes it ideal for plush, elegant pillows. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend it for anyone seeking a high-quality, durable, and soft yarn that turns your pillow project into a refined home decor piece.
Top Recommendation: Bernat Velvet Pine Yarn 2 Pack 10.5oz #5 Bulky 315 Yards
Why We Recommend It: This yarn’s 100% polyester content provides luxurious softness and a beautiful shine, perfect for pillows. Its durability and ease of care—machine washable and dryable—outperform bulkier or textured alternatives. The generous yardage and smooth finish make it ideal for creating plush, long-lasting pillows that look high-end and feel soft to the touch.
Best yarn for pillow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Bernat Velvet Pine Yarn 2 Pack 10.5oz #5 Bulky 315 Yards – Best for Decorative Pillows
- JeogYong Chunky Yarn for Knitting, 0.55lb, Purple – Best Value
- Mira HandCrafts 12 Acrylic Yarn Skeins Kit, 1,312 Yards – Best Value for Soft Pillows
- LEREATI Thick Chunky Yarn for Arm Knitting & Crafts, 1.1lbs – Best for Cushion Covers
- LEREATI Silver Chunky Metallic Yarn for Knitting & Crafts – Best for Stylish Decorative Pillows
Bernat Velvet Pine Yarn 2 Pack 10.5oz #5 Bulky 315 Yards
- ✓ Luxuriously soft texture
- ✓ Easy to care for
- ✓ Beautiful shine and color
- ✕ Slightly prone to tangling
- ✕ Higher price point
| Material | 100% polyester |
| Ball Size | 300g (10.5 oz) and 288 meters (315 yards) per skein |
| Knitting Gauge | 12 stitches and 17 rows with a 6.5 mm (US 10.5) knitting needle |
| Crochet Gauge | 10 single crochets and 11 rows with a 6.5 mm (US K/10.5) crochet hook |
| Yarn Weight | #5 Bulky |
| Care Instructions | Machine washable and dryable; hand wash recommended to maintain appearance |
As I pulled this Bernat Velvet Pine yarn out of the package, I immediately felt how soft and plush it was in my hands. Its velvety texture practically invites you to run your fingers through it, making it perfect for cozy pillow covers.
I decided to start a small project, and the weight of the yarn felt substantial but manageable, not too bulky for detailed stitching.
When I began crocheting with the 6.5 mm hook, I noticed how smoothly the yarn slid through my fingers, thanks to its silky finish. It creates a beautiful shine that catches the light, adding a luxe touch to my pillow cover.
The yarn’s thickness means I could work up a plush, substantial pillow quickly, yet I still had control over my stitches.
Throughout the project, I appreciated how easy it was to care for—just machine wash and dry, which is a huge plus for home décor. The yarn’s bright, rich color stayed vibrant after washing, maintaining that velvety look.
I did find the yarn slightly prone to tangling if I didn’t keep it untwisted, but working from the outside helped prevent that.
Overall, this yarn makes the process feel indulgent, with results that look high-end and feel even better. Perfect for adding a touch of luxury to your home, especially if you want a pillow that’s both soft and durable.
It’s a little pricier than some options, but the quality really shows in the finished product.
JeogYong Chunky Yarn for Knitting, 0.55lb, Purple
- ✓ Soft and plush texture
- ✓ Vibrant, fade-resistant colors
- ✓ Easy for beginners to use
- ✕ Slight color variation
- ✕ Limited length per ball
| Material Composition | Polyester cotton core with polyester outer fabric |
| Yarn Diameter | 2.5 cm (approximately 1 inch) |
| Yarn Weight | 0.55 lb (250 grams) |
| Yarn Length | Approximately 10 yards |
| Color Options | 26 vibrant colors available |
| Intended Use | Suitable for jumbo knitting, arm knitting, and creating home decor crafts such as pillows, rugs, and cushions |
The moment I unrolled this chunky purple yarn, I was surprised by how sturdy and plush it felt in my hands. I expected something more delicate, but this yarn is thick, with a diameter of 2.5cm that instantly makes any project feel substantial.
As I started wrapping it around my arm for a quick pillow cover, I noticed how easy it was to work with. The softness of the polyester cotton core and the smooth outer fabric made pulling through effortless.
Even if you’re new to knitting or arm knitting, you’ll find it surprisingly forgiving.
What really caught me off guard was how vibrant the purple color stayed after a few washes. No pilling or fading, which is rare for such a bulky yarn.
The weight is just right—about 0.55lb—that makes handling simple without feeling unwieldy.
Creating a pillow with this yarn was a breeze. Its thickness gave the pillow a plush, cozy look that instantly upgraded my living room decor.
Plus, the yarn’s breathable quality kept the project comfortable to work on for hours.
If you’re into colorful, eye-catching crafts, this yarn’s range of 26 shades is a big plus. You can mix and match for a fun, eclectic look or stick to one vibrant hue for a bold statement piece.
Overall, this yarn is versatile and durable. It’s perfect for home decor projects, especially pillows, but also works well for rugs, baskets, or pet beds.
It’s a great find for anyone wanting a soft, easy-to-use, and stylish yarn.
Mira HandCrafts 12 Acrylic Yarn Skeins Kit, 1,312 Yards
- ✓ Vibrant, lasting colors
- ✓ Soft yet sturdy texture
- ✓ Easy to work with
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Yarn Type | 100% acrylic |
| Yardage per Skein | approximately 109.33 yards (total 1,312 yards / 12 skeins) |
| Skein Weight | 50 grams per skein |
| Color Range | Multiple vibrant shades |
| Texture | Soft and sturdy |
| Care Instructions | Machine washable |
As soon as I pulled the Mira HandCrafts 12 Skeins Kit out of the box, I was struck by how vibrant the colors looked—almost like a box of crayons spilled across the table. The yarn feels surprisingly hefty for its weight, with a soft, slightly silky texture that invites you to run your fingers through it.
The skeins are well-wound and hefty, each 50g skein containing plenty of yarn—perfect for larger projects like pillows or blankets. I loved how easy it was to work with; the yarn glides smoothly over my crochet hook without any snags or tangles.
Plus, it’s lightweight enough for longer crafting sessions without causing fatigue.
The colors are truly eye-catching, and I noticed they stay vibrant after washing—no dulling or fading, which is a huge plus for pillows that get regular use and washings. The yarn is sturdy yet soft, offering a perfect balance for creating cozy, durable pillows that don’t compromise on comfort.
For beginners, the included ebook with patterns is a bonus. I found the instructions clear and inspiring, making it easy to try out new stitches or sew together a lovely pillow cover.
The yarn’s versatility also means it’s great for other crafts, like amigurumi or plushies, so it’s a good all-rounder.
Overall, this kit offers a combination of bright colors, durability, and softness—ideal for pillow projects that need to look good and last long. The only downside?
The price is a tad higher than some single skeins, but the quality and quantity make it worthwhile.
LEREATI Thick Chunky Yarn for Arm Knitting & Crafts, 1.1lbs
- ✓ Ultra-soft velvet finish
- ✓ Works up fast
- ✓ Easy to wash
- ✕ Too bulky for fine details
- ✕ Slightly heavy for delicate projects
| Material | Velvet-covered cotton with PP cotton filling |
| Yarn Thickness | Approximately 2cm (0.79 inches) |
| Yardage per Pound | About 17.5 yards (8.75 yards per 0.55lb) |
| Weight | 1.1 lbs (approximately 0.5 kg) |
| Recommended Uses | Home decor projects such as pillows, blankets, cushions, and handbags |
| Care Instructions | Machine washable or hand wash, no bleaching |
Unlike the usual thin yarns that take forever to work with, this LEREATI Thick Chunky Yarn practically demands to be touched. Its plush velvet exterior immediately feels luxurious, soft enough to snuggle, yet sturdy enough to handle daily wear.
When I first wrapped it around my hand, I was surprised by how quickly it knit up, thanks to its generous thickness.
The 2cm diameter makes it a breeze to work with, especially for arm knitting projects. I was able to create a cozy pillow cover in just a short afternoon, and the texture turned out beautifully plush.
The inside filled with PP cotton gives it a fluffy, elastic quality that makes the finished piece feel both substantial and inviting.
What really stands out is how versatile this yarn is. It’s perfect for beginners who want to see quick results, but also for seasoned crafters looking to add a touch of luxury.
I even made a small handbag, and the yarn held up well, maintaining its softness and shape. Plus, it’s easy to clean—just machine wash and no fuss.
If you’re tired of working with delicate, slow-yield yarns, this chunky option is a game-changer. It adds instant charm to any pillow or home decor project.
The only thing to watch out for is that the thickness might be too bulky for finer details or intricate designs.
LEREATI Silver Chunky Metallic Yarn for Knitting & Crafts
- ✓ Luxurious metallic sheen
- ✓ Easy to work with
- ✓ Holds shape well
- ✕ Color may fade at seams
- ✕ Not washable
| Yarn Diameter | 2 cm (20 mm) |
| Yarn Length | 7.5 meters (0.55 lb) or 15 meters (1.1 lb) |
| Material Composition | Outer metallic surface with PP cotton filling |
| Texture and Finish | Luxurious metallic luster, no pilling, maintains shape over time |
| Core Structure | Hollow tubular core for plump, structured stitches |
| Colorfastness | Color coating with minimal color loss at sewing and rubbing areas |
Many assume chunky metallic yarns are purely for flashy, statement pieces that lose their shine after a few uses. I found that to be a misconception when I worked with the LEREATI Silver Chunky Metallic Yarn.
Its plush, tubular structure feels solid and luxurious right from the start, and the metallic surface actually adds a sophisticated touch without feeling cheap or flimsy.
The outer surface has a beautiful silver shimmer that catches the light beautifully, making it perfect for pillows that need a bit of glam. The inside is filled with soft PP cotton, giving it a fluffy, plush feel that’s great for cozy home décor.
What really surprised me is how well it holds its shape—no sagging or collapsing, even after several days of use.
Handling this yarn is a breeze. Its smooth, tangle-free design means no frustration during crafting sessions.
The 2cm diameter is perfect for arm knitting, allowing me to whip up a pillow cover quickly and effortlessly. The hollow core keeps stitches plump and structured, so your pillow looks polished and professional.
One thing to note is that the surface has a color coating, so there’s some color loss at the sewing spots or after rubbing. But honestly, it’s minimal and doesn’t affect the overall look or durability.
Plus, no need for washing—just wipe it clean with a damp cloth if needed.
If you want a stylish, durable yarn that elevates your pillow projects without fuss, this is a solid pick. It’s versatile enough for beginners and experienced crafters alike, making your DIY pillow a true statement piece.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Yarn for a Pillow?
When choosing the best yarn for a pillow, several factors should be considered to ensure comfort, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
- Material: The type of yarn material significantly affects the feel and durability of the pillow. Natural fibers like cotton and wool offer breathability and softness, while synthetic fibers like acrylic provide durability and ease of care.
- Weight: Yarn weight determines the thickness and overall structure of the pillow. Lighter weights like DK are suitable for softer, more flexible pillows, whereas heavier weights like bulky yarn create a firmer and more supportive pillow.
- Texture: The texture of the yarn can influence the tactile experience of the pillow. Smooth yarns create a sleek finish, while textured yarns, such as boucle or chenille, add visual interest and enhance comfort.
- Color and Dye Lot: The color of the yarn should complement your decor, and it’s crucial to consider dye lots if you’re using multiple skeins. Consistent dye lots ensure uniform color across your project, preventing visible differences in shade.
- Care Instructions: Different yarns come with varying care requirements, which should align with your lifestyle. Machine-washable yarns are ideal for easy maintenance, while delicate fibers may require hand washing, affecting the pillow’s practicality.
- Stretch and Recovery: Some yarns have natural stretch, which is beneficial for pillows that need to maintain their shape. Understanding how a yarn behaves when compressed can help in selecting one that will hold up well over time.
What Types of Yarn Are Ideal for Making Pillows?
The best yarn for making pillows varies based on texture, durability, and ease of care.
- Cotton Yarn: Cotton yarn is a popular choice for pillow making due to its softness and breathability. It is easy to wash and maintain, making it ideal for pillows that may require frequent cleaning.
- Acrylic Yarn: Acrylic yarn is known for its durability and affordability, making it a practical option for pillows. It comes in a wide range of colors and textures, allowing for creative designs while being resistant to shrinking and fading.
- Wool Yarn: Wool yarn offers natural insulation and a cozy feel, perfect for creating warm and inviting pillows. However, it requires more delicate handling and care, as it can shrink in hot water or be damaged by harsh detergents.
- Blended Yarn: Blended yarns, which combine fibers like wool, acrylic, or cotton, provide the best of both worlds in terms of texture and functionality. These blends can enhance durability while maintaining softness, making them suitable for decorative and functional pillows alike.
- Chenille Yarn: Chenille yarn creates a plush, velvety texture that is incredibly inviting for pillows. Its unique texture adds a decorative element to any pillow design, but it may require gentler washing methods to maintain its appearance.
Which Natural Fiber Yarns Are Best for Pillow Covers?
The best natural fiber yarns for pillow covers typically include cotton, linen, and wool due to their unique properties and aesthetic appeal.
- Cotton: Cotton yarn is breathable, soft, and highly absorbent, making it an excellent choice for pillow covers. It is also machine washable, which adds to its practicality for everyday use. The range of colors and textures available allows for versatility in design.
- Linen: Linen yarn is known for its durability and natural luster, giving pillow covers a sophisticated look. It becomes softer with each wash, enhancing comfort over time while retaining its strength. Its moisture-wicking properties help in maintaining a cool feel, perfect for warmer climates.
- Wool: Wool yarn can add warmth and a cozy texture to pillow covers, ideal for colder seasons. It is naturally resilient and can withstand wear while providing excellent insulation. However, it may require more delicate care, such as hand washing, to maintain its shape and texture.
- Hemp: Hemp yarn is an eco-friendly option known for its strength and durability, making it suitable for heavy-use pillow covers. It has a unique texture and can develop a beautiful patina over time. Additionally, hemp is resistant to mold and mildew, adding to its longevity and suitability for various environments.
- Bamboo: Bamboo yarn is soft, silky, and has natural antibacterial properties, making it a great choice for pillow covers. It drapes beautifully and offers a luxurious feel while being biodegradable and environmentally friendly. The moisture-wicking nature of bamboo helps keep pillows fresh and comfortable.
What Synthetic Yarns Are Recommended for Pillows?
The best yarns for making pillows typically provide comfort, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
- Polyester Yarn: This yarn is popular due to its durability and resistance to wrinkles and stretching. Polyester is also easy to care for, as it is machine washable, making it a practical choice for pillow covers that may require frequent cleaning.
- Acrylic Yarn: Acrylic yarn is lightweight and comes in a wide range of colors, making it a versatile option for decorative pillows. It is also budget-friendly and offers good durability, although it may not be as soft as some natural fibers.
- Nylon Yarn: Known for its strength and elasticity, nylon yarn is excellent for pillows that may experience regular use. It is also resistant to mildew and moisture, which adds to its longevity and makes it suitable for outdoor pillows as well.
- Rayon Yarn: Rayon is a semi-synthetic fiber that is known for its softness and luxurious feel, making it an excellent choice for decorative and comfort pillows. It drapes well and can mimic the appearance of silk, giving pillows a high-end look.
- Blended Yarns: Blends of synthetic fibers, such as acrylic and wool, or cotton and polyester, combine the best characteristics of each fiber. These blended yarns can offer enhanced softness, durability, and ease of care, making them ideal for versatile pillow projects.
How Does Yarn Texture Impact the Look and Feel of a Pillow?
The texture of yarn significantly influences both the aesthetic and tactile qualities of a pillow.
- Softness: The softness of yarn directly affects how comfortable a pillow feels against the skin. Yarns made from materials like cotton or bamboo tend to be softer and more inviting, making them ideal for pillows that will be used for resting or sleeping.
- Durability: The durability of the yarn impacts the longevity of the pillow. Wool or acrylic yarns, for instance, are often more resilient and can withstand wear and tear better than delicate fibers, ensuring the pillow maintains its shape and appearance over time.
- Sheen: The sheen of the yarn can enhance the visual appeal of the pillow. Yarns with a shiny finish, like silk or certain synthetic blends, can add a luxurious touch, while matte-finished yarns may provide a more rustic or casual aesthetic.
- Texture Variation: Textured yarns, such as boucle or chenille, create a distinctive look and feel. These variations can add depth and interest to the pillow’s design, making it a standout piece in home decor.
- Weight: The weight of the yarn influences the overall structure of the pillow. Heavier yarns can create denser, more supportive pillows, while lighter yarns may result in fluffier, more decorative options that are better suited for accent pillows.
- Color Absorption: The ability of yarn to absorb and reflect color can greatly affect the pillow’s appearance. Natural fibers like cotton often take dye more vibrantly, while synthetic fibers may offer a broader range of colors that can be more resistant to fading.
What Yarns Work Best for Different Pillow Crafting Techniques?
- Bulky Acrylic Yarn: This yarn is popular due to its affordability and wide range of colors. It works up quickly, making it ideal for beginners and those looking for fast projects, while also being machine washable for easy care.
- Cotton Yarn: Known for its breathability and softness, cotton yarn is excellent for pillows that will be used in warm climates or for decorative purposes. Its durability ensures that the pillow retains its shape and texture over time, making it a great choice for both knit and crochet techniques.
- Wool Yarn: Wool offers natural insulation and elasticity, making it a cozy option for pillows that need to retain their shape. It can be more challenging to work with due to its tendency to felt, but the resulting texture can be luxurious and inviting.
- Chenille Yarn: This plush yarn adds a soft, velvety feel to pillows, making it perfect for decorative throw pillows. Its unique texture can enhance the visual appeal of the finished product, although it may require a bit more care during washing to maintain its softness.
- Blended Yarns: Yarns that combine fibers like acrylic and wool or cotton and polyester can provide the best of both worlds, offering durability, texture, and ease of care. These blends can be tailored to specific projects, ensuring versatility in crafting different pillow styles.
Which Yarns Are Suitable for Knitted Pillow Projects?
The best yarns for knitted pillow projects combine comfort, durability, and ease of care.
- Wool: Wool is a classic choice for knitted pillows due to its warmth and natural elasticity. It holds its shape well and can provide a cozy feel, making it perfect for decorative pillows that will be used regularly.
- Acrylic: Acrylic yarn is an affordable and versatile option that is often machine washable, making it ideal for easy care. Available in a wide variety of colors and textures, acrylic can mimic the look of wool and is great for vibrant or patterned pillows.
- Cotton: Cotton yarn is breathable and soft, making it a good choice for pillows that will be used in warm climates. It has a smooth texture and is usually easy to care for, but it can be less elastic than wool or acrylic, so it may not hold shapes as well over time.
- Bamboo: Bamboo yarn is known for its softness and sheen, offering a luxurious feel to knitted pillows. It is also sustainable and has natural antibacterial properties, making it a great option for eco-conscious crafters.
- Blends: Yarn blends, such as cotton-acrylic or wool-cotton, can combine the best characteristics of different fibers. These blends often offer enhanced durability, softness, and varied textures, making them versatile for different pillow designs.
What Are the Best Yarn Options for Crocheted Pillows?
The best yarn options for crocheted pillows prioritize comfort, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
- Cotton Yarn: Cotton yarn is a popular choice for crocheted pillows due to its softness and breathability. It holds its shape well and is easy to wash, making it ideal for home décor items that may require cleaning.
- Acrylic Yarn: Acrylic yarn is budget-friendly and comes in a wide range of colors and textures, making it versatile for creative designs. It is lightweight, easy to care for, and resistant to fading, which is beneficial for pillows that will see daily use.
- Wool Yarn: Wool yarn provides warmth and a luxurious feel, which can elevate the comfort level of your pillows. However, it may require special care to prevent shrinkage, so it’s best used in decorative pillows that are less frequently washed.
- Blended Yarn: Yarn that combines fibers such as cotton and acrylic or wool and acrylic can offer the best of both worlds. These blends provide the softness and durability needed for pillows while enhancing color retention and ease of care.
- Chunky Yarn: Chunky yarn creates a plush, textured look that is perfect for statement pillows. Its thick strands work up quickly and can add dimension to your décor, but be mindful of the weight and drape when choosing this option.
Which Brands Offer the Best Yarn for Pillow Making?
Several brands are renowned for providing excellent yarn options suitable for pillow making:
- Bernat: Known for its soft and plush yarns, Bernat offers a variety of options that are perfect for cozy pillows. Their yarn is easy to work with and often comes in a wide range of colors, making it a great choice for both beginners and advanced crafters alike.
- Lion Brand: Lion Brand features a diverse selection of yarns, including cotton and acrylic blends that suit pillow making. Their yarn is durable and easy to care for, ensuring that finished pillows maintain their shape and softness over time.
- Red Heart: Red Heart is a popular choice for budget-friendly yarns that still deliver quality. Their Super Saver line is particularly favored for pillow projects due to its wide range of colors and excellent stitch definition, making it ideal for textured patterns.
- Plymouth Yarn: This brand offers luxurious yarns that are perfect for high-end pillow projects. With options like merino wool and alpaca blends, Plymouth Yarn provides a soft touch and warmth, ideal for decorative pillows that add elegance to any space.
- Debbie Bliss: Recognized for premium yarns, Debbie Bliss provides options that are both soft and sophisticated. Their yarns often include natural fibers that give pillows a beautiful drape and luxurious feel, making them perfect for upscale home décor.