After you have exhausted yourself with crafting piles and more piles of all those granny squares required to complete an extra long cardigan or a king-size bedspread, feeling overwhelmed, you might be tempted to sew your project together before advancing to the next (possibly dreaded) step of blocking.
It has been a long crafting journey, and you just-want it all to end. You want to finally see the big payoff and soak in that lovely, feeling of accomplishment. (At this point, it's not unusual to feel tired, or even bored and want to quickly move on to the next project). It is time to do something different! You decide: Yes, definitely skip the blocking process.
Another scenario: New crafters might not be aware of the blocking technique, various ways to do it, blocking boards and the different types.
Advice: Don't dare do it. Don't take the short road to the finish line.
Take that extra time to block every-last-square to reveal the true beauty of what you spent days/weeks/months making. If you decide to skip the BLOCKING STEP, your blanket or garment may curl, buckle or not hang properly.
Blocking isn't that bad!! In fact, it's rather simple. At end, you will be totally grateful.
▪Step 1- Arrange your squares on the wrong sides and cover with a clean, white cloth.
▪Step 2- Using a spray bottle filled with water; spray the cloth- making sure all the squares are damp.
▪Step 3- On the steam setting, gently iron over the cloth.
▪Step 4- Remove the cloth and gently shape the squares until appearing even on all sides. May use a blocking board if desired. It's best to allow the squares to dry completely- 24 hours is the best time allowance. (If you don't have a blocking board, a crafting mat can be used). Place the squares on the mat and insert t-pins into each corner of every square.
Blocking vs. not blocking is a personal choice, however, projects that have been blocked are truly "PRETTY" WINNERS!!!
D. Black for Prettying Up Boutique
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