How to Knit Chunky Slippers for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide

The photo above © Sheep & Stitch

Looking for a cozy, beginner-friendly knitting project? These chunky knit slippers are the perfect choice! Not only are they warm and stylish, but they also make thoughtful handmade gifts for friends and family. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from casting on to adding the finishing touches. Whether you’re a confident beginner or an experienced knitter, this project is quick, fun, and rewarding.

Why Knit Chunky Slippers?

Chunky knit slippers are a great project for several reasons:

• Quick to Make: The thick yarn and simple stitches mean you can finish a pair in no time.
• Beginner-Friendly: This pattern uses basic techniques like casting on, knitting, and seaming, making it perfect for those new to knitting.
• Customizable: Choose your favorite colors and add fun details like pom-poms or leather soles.
• Practical and Cozy: These slippers are perfect for keeping your feet warm during chilly mornings or relaxing evenings at home.

Materials You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following supplies:

• Yarn: 2 balls of super chunky yarn (e.g., Paintbox Yarns Wool Mix Super Chunky) for the slippers and 1 ball for the pom-pom.
• Knitting Needles: US 10 (6 mm) needles (circular or straight).
• Crochet Hook: 8 mm for adding a decorative edge.
• Other Tools: Tapestry needle, locking stitch markers (or safety pins), sharp scissors, and scrap cardboard for making the pom-pom.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Size

This pattern comes in three sizes: child, adult small, and adult large. To find your size:

1. Measure the circumference of your foot at its widest point.
2. Compare it to the finished measurements of the slipper.
3. Choose a size that’s about half an inch larger than your measurement for a comfortable fit.

Step 2: Casting On and Knitting the Heel

1. Cast On: Start by casting on 2 stitches, leaving a 7-8 inch tail for seaming later.
2. Row 1: Knit all stitches.
3. Row 2: Perform a kfb (knit front and back) increase. Knit into the front of the stitch, then into the back of the same stitch. Knit the next stitch. You should now have 3 stitches.
4. Rows 3-4: Knit all stitches.
5. Row 5: Repeat the kfb increase, then knit to the end of the row. You should have 4 stitches.
6. Repeat Rows 3-5: Continue repeating these rows until you have the required number of stitches for your size (e.g., 8 stitches for adult small).

Step 3: Knitting the Heel Row

1. Cast On Stitches: Depending on your size, cast on additional stitches (e.g., 9 for adult small).
2. Knit to End: Knit all stitches across the row.
3. Repeat Heel Row: Repeat the process on the other side of the triangle to create the heel.

Step 4: Knitting the Body of the Slipper

1. Garter Stitch: Continue knitting in garter stitch (knitting every row) until the piece measures 4 inches (for adult small) or 3.25 inches (for child size) from the cast-on edge.
2. Place Stitch Markers: Mark the first and last stitches on this row to guide your seaming later.
3. Continue Knitting: Knit in garter stitch until the piece measures 2 inches less than the length of your foot.

Step 5: Decreasing for the Toe

1. Decrease Row 1: Knit 2 stitches, then knit 2 together (k2tog). Repeat this pattern across the row.
2. Decrease Row 2: Knit all stitches.
3. Decrease Row 3: Knit 1 stitch, then k2tog. Repeat across the row.
4. Continue Decreasing: Follow the pattern for subsequent decrease rows until you have the required number of stitches for your size.

Step 6: Seaming the Slipper

1. Seam the Toe: Use the tapestry needle to seam the toe up to the stitch markers. Match the "smiles" and "frowns" of the garter stitch for an invisible seam.
2. Seam the Heel: Seam the heel triangle to the sides of the slipper, creating the foot opening.

Step 7: Crocheting the Edge

1. Single Crochet Edge: Using the 8 mm crochet hook, create a single crochet edge around the slipper opening. This adds a polished finish to your slipper.
2. Weave in Ends: Secure and weave in any loose yarn ends.

Step 8: Making the Pom-Pom

1. Create a Pom-Pom: Use scrap cardboard to make a pom-pom template. Wrap yarn around the template, cut, and tie securely.
2. Attach the Pom-Pom: Sew the pom-pom to the top of the slipper for a playful touch.

Optional: Adding a Leather Sole

For extra durability and slip resistance, you can add a leather sole:

1. Trace the Slipper: Trace the bottom of the slipper onto paper to create a pattern.
2. Cut the Leather: Cut the leather to size and punch holes around the perimeter.
3. Attach the Sole: Sew the leather sole to the bottom of the slipper using strong thread.

Final Thoughts

Congratulations! You’ve just created a pair of cozy, chunky knit slippers. These slippers are not only practical but also a joy to make. Whether you’re keeping them for yourself or gifting them to a loved one, they’re sure to bring warmth and comfort.

Watch the Full Video Tutorial Here