Paintbox Yarns Simply Aran Review


3 colours of aran yarn pink, yellow and cream


It always feels like Christmas when I get that knock on the door and it's my postman delivering yarn — even when it’s a yarn I already know and love. Paintbox yarns Simply Aran is one of those brands I reach for again and again, but I still get that little spark of joy when a yarny parcel arrives. 

I use Paintbox Yarns Simply Aran a lot in my patterns, and my favourite thing to make with it is definitely blankets. It’s soft, comfortable to work with, and comes in a nice range of colours, which makes it ideal for mixing, matching, and creating really beautiful blanket designs. It’s also easy to care for and has a slight sheen in the light.

Paintbox Yarns is LoveCrafts’ own yarn brand, which means Simply Aran is only available through LoveCrafts. I’ve included a link above if you’d like to have a closer look or try it out for yourself.


This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 


Yarn Details at a Glance

  • Weight: Aran
  • Fibre: 100% acrylic
  • Ball weight: 100g
  • Approx. length: 184 metres
  • Hook size: 5mm recommended
  • Care: Machine washable, easy-care
  • Where to buy: LoveCrafts (exclusive)







How It Crochets Up

This yarn has a soft, smooth feel and is very easy to work with, especially for larger projects like blankets. It doesn’t split easily, the stitches sit neatly, and it doesn't squeak on the hook like some acrylics do. I would say it's on par with Stylecraft Special Aran, which I also use and love.

That gentle sheen really helps your stitches stand out, particularly in simple repeats and granny-style patterns, giving finished blankets a lovely, soft and squishy finish.


A recent project started with my latest Simply Aran haul...



What I Think It’s Best For

Paintbox Simply Aran really shines in projects that are meant to be used every day. I haven’t used it for garments or amigurumi, but for blankets and homewares it works beautifully. It’s durable, holds its shape well, and washes nicely, which is exactly what you want for practical crochet pieces.


I especially love it for:


2 balls of aran yarn pink and yellow displayed with pretty spring flowers


Blanket Patterns I’ve Made Using Simply Aran

I’ve used Paintbox Simply Aran in several of my blanket designs, and it’s consistently given great results. The stitch definition is clear, the fabric feels cosy without being too heavy, and it’s a joy to work with.


Final Thoughts

Overall, Paintbox Yarns Simply Aran is a yarn I’ll always come back to for blanket projects. It’s soft, reliable, easy to care for, and the colour range makes it incredibly versatile (although it couldn't hurt for them to add a few more). If you’re looking for an Aran yarn that works beautifully for blankets and crochet homewares, that doesn't break the bank, this one is a really solid choice. I’ll include links if you’d like to explore the colours or try it out yourself.


Paintbox Yarns Simply Aran


Happy crocheting!





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