Loops & Thread Cozy Wool - My new favorite!

I love chunky yarn! I love it because it's warm and cozy, but also because it works up quickly when working on a project. A nice big hug from a chunky scarf, shawl or sweater is just what the doctor ordered for the winter weather ahead.

Used to be that when I thought of a chunky project my first thought was Lion Brand Thick & Quick yarn. Yes there are lots of other brands, but most are much pricier so when thinking within budget, that was my default yarn. I loved using it. However, in the past few months I've discovered Loops & Thread Cozy. At first I didn't pay much attention, but when I started noticing colors that I really like and I felt the texture, I decided the water was fine and that I should jump in. I haven't looked back. Don't get me wrong, I still think Thick & Quick is a lovely yarn but here are my reasons for selecting Loops & Thread Cozy Wool more often:

1. The wool acrylic ratio in Cozy Wool is 50/50, in Thick & Quick it's 86% acrylic, 10% wool and 4% rayon. I like the idea of having more wool rather than less in the ball of yarn
2. Cozy Wool is a lot softer to the touch. It may because of the process they use, or it may be because of the wool content, whatever the reason, it's a smoother yarn.
3. Cozy Wool costs less. Now, I know that because Loops & Thread is a Michael's product they're going to want to sell it lower than the competition, but if you need to order Thick & Quick from Lion Brand directly, it will cost $9.50 a ball not including shipping. Cozy Wool costs $6.99 in the store
4. The color palette for Cozy Wool is much more varied with less variegation and more solid colors

Now, it's not all wine and roses with Cozy Wool because you can't really buy it online so if you need a color and you can't find it in the store you are pretty much lost. However, when Michael's decides to join the rest of us in online commerce, it may be dangerous!!

I will use both yarns depending on the project, but I do feel that I will gravitate to the Cozy Wool first then if not available in the color of choice check to see if Thick & Quick is available.