Big Twist Twinkle Yarn: Add Sparkle to Every Stitch
Big Twist Twinkle yarn brings magical sparkle to your projects without the hassle of working with separate metallic threads. This worsted weight Big Twist Twinkle yarn combines everyday usability with festive shimmer, perfect for holiday projects and special occasion accessories. The integrated glitter eliminates dealing with scratchy metallic yarns while still delivering eye-catching shine.
You’ll learn what makes this sparkle acrylic Big Twist Twinkle yarn different, where to find the best deals, which projects work best, and how to care for sparkly creations.
What Makes Big Twist Twinkle Yarn Special
The defining feature of Big Twist Twinkle yarn is right there in the name – it twinkles. Unlike regular acrylic that’s completely matte, this yarn has polyester fibers woven throughout that catch and reflect light. What sets it apart from other sparkle yarns is the integration method – the glitter isn’t just sprinkled on the surface. Instead, the polyester sparkle is part of the yarn structure itself, meaning less glitter shedding and sparkle that lasts through multiple washings.
The Sparkle Advantage
Unlike metallic threads that can be scratchy and difficult to work with, Big Twist Twinkle maintains the soft feel of regular acrylic while adding just enough shimmer to make projects special.
Big Twist Twinkle Yarn Specifications
Understanding the specs helps you plan projects and know exactly what to expect from this Big Twist sparkle yarn.
The 380-yard skeins match Big Twist Value in yardage, making them economical for larger projects. You’re getting the same amount of yarn but with added sparkle. Compared to smaller specialty yarn skeins that might only have 50-100 yards, Twinkle offers excellent value.
Big Twist Twinkle Yarn Colors
The color range focuses on classic sparkle shades perfect for multiple occasions. Silver and gold options dominate the collection – silver tones range from bright chrome to softer pewter, while golds vary from champagne to rich metallic gold. You’ll also find colored sparkle versions combining a base color with complementary shimmer, like blue with silver glitter or pink with iridescent sparkle.
Color Note: Sparkle yarns can look different under various lighting. The same skein might appear subdued in daylight but quite glittery under artificial lights. Check your yarn in the lighting where you’ll display the finished project.
Where to Buy Big Twist Twinkle Yarn
Herrschners carries Big Twist Twinkle as part of their collection with consistent availability. Amazon provides quick shipping options, and Mary Maxim serves international customers. Sparkle yarns see increased demand during holidays, so shop early for Christmas projects. Watch for sales around major holidays when prices drop to $2.49-$2.99 per skein.
Big Twist Twinkle Yarn Substitutes
When you need alternatives with similar sparkle effects, knowing good Big Twist Twinkle yarn substitute options keeps your projects on track.
Best Alternatives
| Yarn Name | Yardage/Weight | Sparkle Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Heart Shimmer | 280 yd / 3.5 oz | Metallic thread | Similar sparkle, wider availability |
| Lion Brand Sparkle | 306 yd / 5 oz | Metallic accent | Good yardage, comparable price |
| Bernat Satin Sparkle | 166 yd / 3.5 oz | Satin with glitter | Dressier look, smoother finish |
| Caron Simply Soft Brites | 315 yd / 6 oz | Bright colors, some shimmer | Vibrant colors with subtle shine |
| Premier Yarn Glitz | 215 yd / 3.5 oz | Full glitter coverage | Maximum sparkle effect |
Red Heart Shimmer provides the closest match in sparkle level and price point. Lion Brand Sparkle offers more yardage per skein if you’re working on larger projects. For maximum glitter, Premier Yarn Glitz goes beyond Twinkle’s subtle sparkle with full metallic coverage.
Within the Big Twist Family
If sparkle isn’t essential, other Big Twist options might work better:
- Big Twist Value: Same yardage without sparkle, better for everyday projects where shine isn’t needed
- Big Twist Posh: Luxuriously soft without glitter, perfect when you want quality over sparkle
- Big Twist Plush: Chenille texture for different visual interest without metallic elements
Working with Big Twist Twinkle Yarn
Start with the recommended US 8 (5mm) needles or H-8 (5mm) hook. The worsted weight works up quickly while maintaining good stitch definition. Go down to US 7 for tighter fabric or up to US 9-10 for looser drape.
The polyester creates a slightly different texture than pure acrylic initially, but this softens as you work. While Big Twist Twinkle sheds far less than many sparkle yarns, you’ll see some glitter during initial handling. This is normal and decreases significantly after the first wash.
Pro Tip: For gifts, wash the finished item before giving to remove excess surface glitter. This ensures the recipient gets a beautiful sparkly item without glitter transferring during first wear.
Best Projects for Big Twist Twinkle Yarn
Holiday Accessories
Christmas scarves, hats, and cowls become festive staples with sparkle that catches light from decorations.
Special Occasion Wear
Party shrugs and evening wraps gain elegance without being over-the-top for formal events.
Ornaments
Crocheted snowflakes and knitted stars use minimal yarn while maximizing the glitter effect.
Care Instructions for Sparkle Projects
Machine wash in cold water on gentle cycle. The first wash will release some surface glitter – this is expected. After that, glitter shedding becomes minimal. Dry flat for best results, though low heat machine drying works. Store folded to prevent stretching, and keep sparkle projects away from other items that might pick up stray glitter.
Price and Value
Regular retail runs $6.49 per skein with frequent sales at $2.99 or $2.49. At 380 yards per skein, the larger skeins provide excellent value compared to other sparkle yarns that might cost $5-8 for only 200 yards. One skein often completes scarf projects where other brands require two.
Frequently Asked Questions
Big Twist Twinkle yarn is made of 97% acrylic and 3% polyester. The polyester creates the sparkle effect throughout the yarn, giving projects a subtle shimmer that catches the light beautifully.
Big Twist Twinkle yarn typically costs between $2.99 and $6.49 per skein, with frequent sales bringing it down to around $2.49-$2.99. Each skein contains 380 yards of worsted weight sparkle yarn, making it an affordable option for festive projects.
You can buy Big Twist Twinkle yarn at Herrschners, Amazon, and Mary Maxim online. Previously exclusive to Joann stores, it’s now available through multiple retailers with consistent availability.
Big Twist Twinkle is a worsted weight 4 yarn. Each skein contains 6 oz (170g) with 380 yards (347m). Use a US 8 (5mm) knitting needle or H-8 (5mm) crochet hook for best results.
Big Twist Twinkle yarn has minimal glitter shedding. The sparkle is integrated into the fiber structure, so while you might see a tiny bit during initial handling and washing, it doesn’t leave excessive glitter everywhere like some novelty yarns.
Yes, Big Twist Twinkle is machine washable. Wash in cold water on gentle cycle and dry flat. The sparkle holds up well through washing, though you may see minimal glitter release in the first wash.
Big Twist Twinkle comes in various sparkle colors including silver tones, gold shades, and multi-color options. Popular colors include white sparkle, champagne, pewter, and rainbow varieties perfect for holiday and special occasion projects.
Yes, Big Twist Twinkle is excellent for scarves. The worsted weight creates good drape and warmth, while the sparkle adds festive appeal. The yarn is soft enough for next-to-skin wear and the glitter doesn’t irritate sensitive skin.
Big Twist Twinkle and Big Twist sparkle yarn refer to the same product line. Both names describe the sparkle acrylic worsted weight yarn with integrated glitter from the Big Twist brand.
For a standard scarf (6-8 inches wide, 60 inches long), you’ll need 1-2 skeins of Big Twist Twinkle. The 380-yard skeins provide plenty of yardage for most scarf patterns. Wider or longer scarves may require 2-3 skeins.
Big Twist Twinkle is not discontinued, but availability shifted when Joann stores transitioned. The yarn is now available through Herrschners, Amazon, and Mary Maxim rather than being exclusive to Joann.
Big Twist Twinkle works best for holiday accessories like scarves, hats, and cowls, Christmas ornaments and decorations, party accessories, festive baby items, and special occasion garments. The sparkle makes it perfect for projects that need extra shine.
Final Thoughts
Big Twist Twinkle delivers sparkle without the struggles of many novelty yarns. The integrated glitter means less shedding and better wearability. The 380-yard skeins provide excellent value, and frequent sales make it budget-friendly enough to keep on hand for whenever inspiration strikes.
Ready to Add Some Sparkle?
Big Twist Twinkle makes it easy to create festive projects without difficult-to-work-with metallic threads. Perfect for holiday accessories and special occasions that need a touch of glamour.