Blocking for The Edge

"Kitty Blanket" pinned to shape
on a blocking board.
Crocheted by Jodiebodie 2010.
Pattern: "Purr-fection" by Candi Jensen
 
 
 

Blocking is a useful technique for giving a neat, professional finish to crocheted items.

Don't just leave it until the end of your crocheted project!  It is also handy during the making of a project.

This is especially true of anything that is made in sections; for example, individual motifs or garment pieces such as sleeves, backs and fronts.

As I block my crocheted squares, here are my tips for giving a blanket that
'finished edge'!

Yarn Chicken

Always trust your instincts. That's what mothers tell us.

Meditative or … boring?

The ribbing on the Belcarra Cardigan seems to be taking forever to complete.

It is simple crochet ribbing–working evenly, 14 stitches per row, the same row over and over–very meditative … or dare I say boring?

Belcarra Beginnings

Hooray!  I sorted out the yarn, the hook; time to get started on my version of Robyn Chachula's Belcarra Cardigan.

Starting with the back of the cardigan, this post explains how to adjust the pattern for a different gauge.

Tension Headaches

Here are bunch of tension squares*, made over recent months to determine the best hook for the Belcarra Cardigan: usually the one that matches the pattern’s recommended gauge*.

Simple, yes?  Well, not this time. When one is in a hurry, lacking concentration or wading through fatigue fog, watch out; for hidden traps reveal themselves and come out to play tricks on you.

Small details can make a big difference.  Assumptions are the enemy!  

Fashioning the Fab Four (Part 12): While My Guitar Gently …

… Warps?

The Fab Four guitars are so cute, right down to their little strings!

Obviously strings are very important on a guitar. These particular strings (right) had a major influence on the finished product.

Fashioning the Fab Four (Part 10): We Can Work It Out

 At first, I could not work it out. Why were my instruments out of proportion?

In Fashioning the Fab Four (Part 8): Tools of the Trade, it was noted that
“gauge is not critical for this project” but I am here to tell you that it is!

 

Warning: this post contains mathematics!

Happy New Year!

Welcome to 2013! What did you do for New Year's Eve? Did you touch your crochet hooks or craft projects at all?