If you’ve identified that your blanket is not laying flat, here are several approaches you can take to rectify this issue:
Immediate Measures
Blocking: Blocking is one of the most effective ways to shape your crochet project.
Wet Blocking: Soak your blanket in water, gently squeeze out the excess (without wringing), and lay it flat on a blocking board. Pin the blanket into the desired shape, stretching slightly as needed. Allow it to dry completely. This method is particularly good for natural fibers.
Steam Blocking: For synthetic fibers, steam blocking can be more effective. Hold a steam iron above the areas that need reshaping, being careful not to touch the blanket with the iron. Pin the blanket into shape and let it cool.
Stitch Adjustment: If blocking doesn’t fully solve the problem, consider going back and adjusting the stitches themselves.
Add or Remove Stitches: If you’ve added too many stitches causing the blanket to ruffle, you may need to undo some rows and reduce the number of stitches. Conversely, if the blanket is pulling because there aren’t enough stitches, you’ll need to add some.
Even Out Tension: Work through the blanket to even out any tight or loose stitches. This might mean re-crocheting some sections with a more consistent hand.
Long-Term Solutions
Consistent Yarn and Hook Use: Stick to the same type of yarn and hook throughout the project to avoid tension variances.
Regular Measurements: Regularly measuring your work as you go can help catch any deviations from the intended width or length before they become too pronounced.
Practice Even Tension: Work on maintaining a consistent yarn tension throughout your project. This may require conscious effort and could vary from day to day depending on a variety of factors.
Creative Fixes
Adding a Border: Crocheting a border around the entire blanket can help to contain and straighten any curving edges. Choose a border that complements the main blanket design and adds structural integrity.
Design Adjustments: Embrace the curve creatively by adjusting your design. For instance, transforming a straight blanket into a circular or wavy design can turn a flaw into a feature.
