Facing My Fear of Steam Blocking Acrylic!

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 5 ก.พ. 2025
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ความคิดเห็น • 147

  • @lindarodgers7538
    @lindarodgers7538 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Awesome on the final folding, I know what it's like having uneven blankets. Thank you for being our guinea pig for all these experiments, you have saved us all from so much frustration, you are a God send, thank you so much for sharing all your experiments with us. Until the next video. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Awww... thanks for the sweet words, Linda! You know... hindsight is 20/20 but a pre-blocking folded demo would have been a really good "before" example! Ah well...

  • @E_LithaBeth
    @E_LithaBeth 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Cute hair!
    I just wanted to say that if anyone out there has a welding supply place nearby go in and look at the tig (I think?) welding wires. They are stainless steel, flexible, in a variety of diameters and I believe the same thing that you buy in blocking kits. Best part is they are cheaper too!!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Good idea! They probably ARE cheaper but we'd have to know what gauge to buy. It needs to be flexible enough to do curved edges for certain projects but strong enough not to remain in that curve!

    • @E_LithaBeth
      @E_LithaBeth 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@margaret.olander They are sold in one pound tubes (about 30 wires in the ones I bought?) and when I bought some I explained what I wanted to do to the clerk and got permission to pull samples out and give them a flex. I settled on 1.6mm They work great! You could even go in with a pal and get a few sizes. It's been a few years now and prices could have changed but I think I paid $17 for the pound of wires.

  • @NanaMom104A
    @NanaMom104A 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I can tell an amazing difference in the before and after pictures. Great job.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm so happy I was brave, Cathy! It was quite the adventure! Ha!

  • @meganpatterson9444
    @meganpatterson9444 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    You’ve inspired me once again!! Now I need to try my hand at steam blocking. I have the perfect project in mind. I just completed a baby blanket in a similar pattern. It starts with corner-to-corner rectangle and has 25 rows around the center. The edges look a little funny and don’t lay flat! I’m going to be brave and try steam blocking it!! Thank you again Margaret! P.s. your hair looked fabulous in this video! I love how you are styling it lately!! Much love from California ❤️

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, Megan! If you have a proper steamer, then you'll find it's a breeze. Nothing like I was imagining in my scardy-cat mind! Ha!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Oh, and thank you for the compliment on my hair. I like the back better than the front! 😬

  • @reneegencur2469
    @reneegencur2469 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    You got great results! Thanks for going through the whole process including the wash and dry cycle. It really demonstrated that steam blocking is worth doing because the blocking carries over through washing. Although the setup to get the edges straight took a lot of time, it is a good investment for a lovely item!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm so happy I was brave, Renee! And yes... that fact that it carries over through the washing process is a bonus for acrylic projects! Once it's done... it's DONE unlike natural fiber projects. 👍

  • @neldagilliam7350
    @neldagilliam7350 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    To prevent the sagging when steaming vertically, perhaps you could rotate the mat so that gravity will help.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Possibly! Although the reformation of the strands is virtually instant. I think the secret is to keep it lying flat and use a proper steamer. 👍

  • @bettyjorodgers8552
    @bettyjorodgers8552 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Excellent. You did good. Thank you for sharing. Blessings

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks, Betty Jo! I'm so happy I was brave! Ha!

  • @JJW77
    @JJW77 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This video answer my questions on blocking. This is a wonderful tutorial. Thank you for directing me to this helpful teaching video on the pros and cons of blocking a blanket.

  • @karenn993
    @karenn993 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Margaret, thanks so much for this experiment. I rarely block anything to be honest, but can see I was not as careful as you and will be forewarned in the future! I've always found it so frustrating when my afghans won't lie flat. I see now it's not just me! I sometimes find using a smaller hook when adding the border can help so I do that when I remember!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      As I just told, Judy... I never consider a natural fiber project finished until it's blocked so it's so nice to see I now have an answer for acrylic! And it wasn't nearly as hard as I expected either. Waiting for the new tools to come in now!

  • @craftynanaakavickieakers391
    @craftynanaakavickieakers391 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi Margaret, I love your hair! Thanks for the great tips.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, Vickie! I like my hair better in the back better than the front! Ha!

    • @craftynanaakavickieakers391
      @craftynanaakavickieakers391 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      It looks great in the front and back! I sure wish I could get my hair to do that but it's straight as a stick and baby fine to boot!

  • @csl350
    @csl350 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for your response, I’ve never blocked, I have a Shark floor steamer that becomes a hand held, will give it a try once I buy the foam puzzle.

  • @Crafty3627
    @Crafty3627 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great job. I use the steamer and iron to block my crochet too. I found them both to work very similarly but of course the iron is more dangerous to your acrylic work. You’re right about the pinning being tedious. However, I think it’s the most important part of the process.
    Thanks for sharing. Your videos are always interesting. I grab my coffee, sit down and pay full attention every time there’s a video from you.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes, Eloise... the pinning IS incredibly important. I'm anxious to see if the blocking wires aid in the process even though I'll be blocking horizontally now that I've ordered a new steamer! And thanks for the sweet words about my videos! I never know what people will find interesting!

  • @midgethorn4083
    @midgethorn4083 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    What an opening! Love you, it’s me, Margaret. Love the lab coat!
    Wow, great outcome!. You did great with the iron!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Oh, Midge... that iron technique was too nerve-wracking but other than that, I'm really pleased with my new skill! Ha!

  • @sarap6862
    @sarap6862 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I was so nervous watching you with the iron. I’m glad to know it can be done. Thank you for testing it out. ❤️

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I was nervous using the iron, too, Sara!! One small slip and it's a fail! I ordered a proper steamer that will work in the horizontal position so we can all breathe easier now! Ha!

  • @Rennagayle
    @Rennagayle 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I’ve blocked acrylics plenty of times with my steam iron, but I’ve only ever done it on small items. Your blanket turned out great!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You know, Renna... as I read your comment, I sure would have made more sense if I had started with a small item! Ha! Ah, well... I learned a new skill and survived! 👍

  • @JOSWEBCROCHET
    @JOSWEBCROCHET 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome informative video as usual Margaret! I tried wet blocking acrylic once.... didn't work. LOL Now I know to use steam. thanks 😊

  • @judypetett888
    @judypetett888 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    So that is why my acrylic blanket never laid flat! I spent so much time, wet blocking. You are such a wonderful teacher. The puppy blanket looks perfect now.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I would never consider a project with natural fiber finished UNTIL the blocking was over SO NOW I'm happy to see I can improve my acrylic projects too!! Yay for bravery!! Now, when the new steamer comes in, I'll be immersed in a cloud of steam as I hit all the other little blankies I have around here! Ha!

  • @rene7865
    @rene7865 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for doing this!! I’m about to attempt steam blocking myself. I feel less nervous after watching you 😊

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It was so much easier than I thought! Be sure to watch the video after this because there are some great viewer tips that will make it even easier! th-cam.com/video/vxWlf-9jzJA/w-d-xo.html

  • @Steina_The_Yarnist
    @Steina_The_Yarnist 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    🎉Congratulations, Margaret!🎉🤗

  • @gurliegurl2e
    @gurliegurl2e 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Hi there, thank you this video. I have been too intimidated to block my projects. If you ever find a great steamer for these types of projects I hope you'll do a follow-up video to share with us. Hope your family is doing better! ❤️

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      You're so welcome! I was so scared of it but it's nice to know that it's not nearly as difficult or risky (with the right tool, that is) as I thought it was! I did some research on steamers and here is the one I ordered: amzn.to/3wmMrBs Should be here on Wednesday!

  • @VernaBradshaw
    @VernaBradshaw 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great information. I’ve often wondered if it would hold its shape once it was laundered. Love your blanket too!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes! That seems to be a bonus with acrylic now that we know it will hold its shape after washing! I loved this experiment!

  • @deniseyoung3738
    @deniseyoung3738 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks Margaret, I've not tried steam blocking yet, so will on my next acrylic project. I have the blocking wires and they do help for long edges, but do take some work to place on your project.....now I am off to shop for steamers!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm waiting on my blocking wires and new steamer to come in on Wednesday! I'm so happy I was brave! Ha!

  • @BeeWOWdbyAprilLee
    @BeeWOWdbyAprilLee 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great job. Thanks for sharing this experiment.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      You're so welcome, Apri! I'm so glad I was brave!! Ha!

  • @20oxford
    @20oxford 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    They are glorious get your self a steam buddy if they still make them. mine is over 10 years old.. it is a great toll for steam ironing and steam cleaning.

  • @cyndihanson157
    @cyndihanson157 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Love it!! Very informative! Thanks Margaret!!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm so happy I was brave, Cyndi! It was nerve wracking (especially the iron) but I loved the improvement! Now I'm waiting on a proper steamer to be delivered!

  • @LGoodwillie
    @LGoodwillie 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you Margaret for this video. I really appreciate it. I have always avoided blocking my projects. I’ve seen other videos using steam and I’m still terrified. It can go terribly bad. Your video was very timely however because I’m currently challenging myself to do the Celtic Mandala Throw which is using acrylic yarn. I would like to gift it to a family member as a housewarming gift, but only if it turns out well and I’m terrified of blocking it. There is tons of texture in it and it is challenging me all the way through the process and I don’t want to ruin it. I may just have to first try this on a different project first and see how it goes. Thanks so much again!!!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Oh, Linda! I just looked that up and it's GORGEOUS! My humble advice is use a proper steamer that can be held at all angles. (I ordered a Conair after watching some review videos.) AND, keep it moving. I didn't say this because I suppose I thought it was a given but you can damage fabric if you hold the steamer in one place too long. (I watched a friend do this years ago as she was trying to get out a stubborn crease!) Keep it moving! You can always go back over it AND as we've learned in this video, you can even do multiple sessions! Yay for bravery!

    • @LGoodwillie
      @LGoodwillie 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@margaret.olander Thanks so very much Margaret!!! I do have a couple of steamers around the house I would definitely try on other projects first to see how it goes and to get my courage up. Thank you so much for braving this topic for us!! Take good care!

  • @terrestreasures9138
    @terrestreasures9138 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for showing this. Great job.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      You're so welcome, Terre! I'm so happy about it!

  • @yarnmotivated
    @yarnmotivated 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Worked out wonderfully. Thank you for sharing.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you, Joyce! I was really surprised at how easy it was and I can't wait for my new steamer to come in so I can spruce up some passed projects! Ha!

  • @michellecarter7101
    @michellecarter7101 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Omgoodness Margaret u are my hero!! I too have been terrified of this 😫 I am absolutely astonished that it work and worked so well! Ty so much for doing this, I will try this & with less nervousness when I do. Lil big side note.. Ur hair!.. ur hair is absolutely stunning 😍

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I was astonished, too, Michelle! I've ordered a proper steamer so 1) should be easier next time and 2) I don't have to do the risky iron technique! ha! Thanks for the kind words about my hair. I like it better from the back than I do the front!

    • @michellecarter7101
      @michellecarter7101 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@margaret.olander it definitely opens the window to more projects I can do now that know they can be successfully blocked for the people in my like unable to have natural fibers. U just need a fancy top that's got all the bling in the back and enter rooms in a twirl! Lol

  • @Raven_Snow
    @Raven_Snow 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video! Thanks for sharing your experience!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks for keeping me company while I got up my nerve! Ha!

  • @waltons-crochet
    @waltons-crochet 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    That’s such a cute doggie! Thanks for the info

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Oooo... the video I filmed after this gives some great tips about steam blocking from viewers and me, too! th-cam.com/video/vxWlf-9jzJA/w-d-xo.html

  • @Laurpud
    @Laurpud 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Once you get your wires, the pinning will be easier, especially with those blocking pins
    I don't know if they still make them, but Kärcher had the best steamers on the market, with a long hose, different head sizes, & no spitting unless it's out of water. They look like a yellow canister vacuum, & are absolutely amazing

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I haven't used that brand but I've spent hours with large capacity steamers getting ready for Military Ball back when Thomas was in high school! They were awesome but getting them out, putting them together and reversing the process when finished is a little more than I need these days! Since I don't need that much water capacity, I ordered an better quality handheld one though because of storage and ease of use. We'll see if my research was accurate! Ha!

  • @tonistevens2253
    @tonistevens2253 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    A couple of years ago I was watching one of Marley Bird’s videos and she was using a Rowena X-Cel steamer to block her piece. I was impressed because it has a guard that goes over the steam vents which keeps one from getting too close. I wash my blankets and while damp put them on the blocking board and pin down. Keeping the blanket flat on the bed or floor, I then use the steamer and let the blanket sit overnight or longer before removing the pins. I just checked for the steamer I have and it’s $70 or so on Amazon, but available elsewhere as well.

    • @tonistevens2253
      @tonistevens2253 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      That should be ROWENTA X-CEL steamer. (I hate spellcheck some days…)

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, Toni! I ordered a Conair one that should be here on Wednesday!

  • @MrsGump
    @MrsGump 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I blocked a striped blanket that I made for my MIL for Xmas. I pinned it down using T pins & sewing pins (the ones with the big pearl head) when I ran out of t pins, sprayed it liberally with water & left til totally dry. When unpinned it was perfect, I was stoked as it was my first attempt to block something!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Wonderful! What fiber was it?

    • @MrsGump
      @MrsGump 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@margaret.olander it was arcrylic! I bought some of those cheap foam floor mats & used those on top of my large dining table. I've got one of those large garment steamers with the base that sits on the floor & the nozzle attached to a hose (so I can use it at any angle) & I'm 100% having a go with that next time I need to block something - you've given me the courage to give it a go!!!!!!

  • @claudiacano4916
    @claudiacano4916 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    It is September 29, 2022, and I just watched this video. I have been successfully blocking acrylic with two methods. One is by using a steam iron, and the other one by using a garment steamer, bigger than the one you are using here, but I pass the iron, or the garment steamer, about one or two inches above the fabric, moving it slowly over the fabric while I press the button to give puffs of steam. I give about two full passes around the entire fabric, then I let it dry without touching it. I can assure you that the fabric gets softer, and drapes beautifully, even hard acrylic like Red Heart Super Saver.❤

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, Claudia! If you watch the next video, you'll see that I shared good ideas like this! I learn so much from you people! th-cam.com/video/vxWlf-9jzJA/w-d-xo.html

  • @summerking8659
    @summerking8659 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for this Margaret - I have just finished a C2C on Repeat Crafter Me's Christmas Blanket. Added a three colour candy cane boarder which turned out to be far too large thus causing the blanket to buckle a lot. May now just see if a steam block will improve it even slightly - but the candy cane boarder took so long to do I sure ain't ripping it out haha....

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      The video after this one has some wonderful tips and techniques for acrylic blocking shared by viewers, too!

  • @lynnschwemle2807
    @lynnschwemle2807 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you ,i didn't know 😮

  • @leopardontheprowl
    @leopardontheprowl 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    You've not finished your first sentence and I've liked the video. I just know I'm gonna enjoy hanging out with you while I change the beds! 😂

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ha! You're so funny and I'm so glad I could keep you company while you knocked some chores off your list! 😍

  • @egoreknits
    @egoreknits 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great testing and tips. I think I might be willing to try this now.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I highly recommend it... well... with a proper steamer, that is! Ha! That iron technique was nerve wracking! I've ordered a steamer and will be hitting all my past blankies once it comes in!

    • @egoreknits
      @egoreknits 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@margaret.olander My husband bought me a hand held steamer for Christmas. I need to go check if I can use it horizontally. Hope so.

  • @evettesamuel
    @evettesamuel 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you so much for sharing this video

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You are so welcome and thanks for being patient with me as I fumbled through the process!! Ha!

  • @evettesamuel
    @evettesamuel 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great work 👍

  • @charlenecrochetcorner789
    @charlenecrochetcorner789 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Ok I am Breathing again. I missed the name of the designer of the puppy pattern;however I need to check the description box. I know it will be there. Thank you for being brave for us all.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Haha! That iron technique WAS nerve-wracking!!!! Yes, link is in the description box!

  • @IslandLady76
    @IslandLady76 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Years ago, we never blocked acrylic, just layer flat to dry, but as you showed it really makes it squared. Now I don’t take the time to block after drying in dryer because it takes time and my woolens need that time

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      You're exactly right, Elise. It DOES take time. I love that you have your priorities going strong!

  • @KazAussieYarnaholic
    @KazAussieYarnaholic 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome result Margaret. I'm scared of steam blocking too, but feel a little more comfortable to give it a go after watching this video. The blanket is cute and you did a wonderful job with the border. Did you happen to see my comment about the c2c correction of colour block for your orange bird on your last video?
    Love your science coat too, you look very scientific 😃

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I somehow missed your helpful comment about the c2c color correction so I searched it out! That's was pretty ingenious! I have to admit, though, that my little wonky orange bird has grown on me a bit and since there are more than one block that would need replacing, I don't think I'll put that much effort into it. BUT... It's so great to know it can be done! Thanks, Kaz!!

  • @helensarkisian7491
    @helensarkisian7491 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    😯 I didn’t know acrylic could be blocked. Although, it now makes perfect sense. 😎

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I've always heard that this was the way to do it but I was just plain scared! I've ordered a proper steamer so next time should be easier. Whew! 👍

  • @CMeyer-ut3dd
    @CMeyer-ut3dd 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have a cardigan in the works. I will use the iron and steam it

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      It will make a huge difference BUT... I highly recommend a proper steamer but if you really want to use your iron then in a comment below, Denise said she uses a trivet (apparently with holes in it) btw the iron and her work so she doesn't accidently touch it! I thought that was genius!

  • @denisehoffmann5006
    @denisehoffmann5006 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have used steam to block acrylic... mistakes were made 😳
    I approached it with my usual reckless abandon.
    It would seem that all of my lessons are the hard way 😕
    From now on , I am going to check your playlist first before diving ...
    Well at least that is my plan 😉
    With my steam iron , I use a metal trivet to keep it at a safe distance .

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      A metal trivet! GENIUS, Denise! Why didn't I think of that?!! Well... I'll tell you why... I have a bit of that reckless abandon, too! Also, I had no idea how close I had to be for the iron's steam to reach the yarn since it doesn't shoot out like a steamer does. 🤷‍♀️ Live and learn!

  • @oakstrong1
    @oakstrong1 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    THANK YOU for this! I am also a fan of acrylic but I haven't had any luck with wet blocking, so I thought maybe steam blocking doesn't work either... I would have tried it but I want a steamer that works horizontally: I found a couple on Amazon but the reviews on those models were the worst of them all, so I gave up on the idea. Like you, I wouldn't want to use a steam iron permanently, especially on bit items like king-sized blankets, besides, I cannot control the steam in my iron, which comes out in bursts.
    If anyone knows or discovers a reliable make, please, reply and let me and others know.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I actually DID order one from Amazon but I never rely on Amazon reviews. (Many are faked) I like to watch TH-cam video reviews so I can see it in action! They often do comparisons too which is helpful. Of course, I'll be testing it out for myself when I gets here and Amazon has such an easy return policy if I don't like it. 👍

  • @rhondaikenberry4155
    @rhondaikenberry4155 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hahaha I also jumped on this!

  • @joanmachado9063
    @joanmachado9063 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video thank you 😊

  • @maritzascraft
    @maritzascraft 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love the blanket. Is there a tutorial?!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Look in the description box for a link to the pattern. There is no tutorial from start to finish but she does offer links for C2C and the border she uses.

  • @themtnbiker
    @themtnbiker 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Beautiful work....both blankets! Thanks for your "sacrificial" experiment. Glad it was a success. Margaret, you have looked very pretty in your last couple videos. I think you have a new hair style or maybe just a new cut. Do you have natural waves? Anyway, your hair looks pretty.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, Martha! You must have missed the recent video where I showed my hair in its natural state these days. It IS wavy now although it hasn't always been! I can't let it dry naturally or it gets frizzy, even with curl product.

  • @whitneyallen5575
    @whitneyallen5575 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Maybe it's easier to steam on a extra piece of fabric first, to get the bubbling stopping. Or use a steam iron and steam on the blanket.

  • @dianeboileau2026
    @dianeboileau2026 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I hate to admit this but I have never blocked any of my work! Is that a bad thing? Guess I might just have to give it a go after seeing your results! Now where did I put my steamer? Lol Thanks Margaret for the lesson!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Nope... I don't think it's a bad thing at all, Diane. I know what a difference it makes on my natural fiber projects (not small things like hats) so I always WANTED to try the acrylic but was too chicken! Now I know it's not nearly as difficult as I though it was; that (as with anything) the right tool for the job makes things better; and using a steam iron is too nerve wracking!! Ha! I'm waiting for my new steamer to come in as I write this!

  • @judypetett888
    @judypetett888 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Jumped on your video 30 secs after you posted.haha

  • @lizv.418
    @lizv.418 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Margaret I was scared that your beautiful blanket would get warped by the iron and also the steamer but it worked!!🤗
    Thanks for demo🌞🐰

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It was so much easier than I expected, Liz! Although, I don't recommend the iron technique as that was nerve-wracking. 😱 Waiting on a proper steamer to come in now!

  • @midgevietor199
    @midgevietor199 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank You for doing this. I will steam block from now on.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I love the difference it made and it wasn't nearly as hard as I thought it was! Well... the iron technique was far too nerve-wracking but I'm waiting on a proper steamer to come in now! 👍

  • @schizoozy
    @schizoozy 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I wonder if I could use my steam mop with the carpet attachment?

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ooooooo! I'm sure you can! That puts out a lot of steam so be sure to keep it moving! Genius, Barbara!

  • @CarolineCrochetsGrannies
    @CarolineCrochetsGrannies ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for experimenting, it turned out great! ...and, you're adorable!

  • @kelleyjogirl
    @kelleyjogirl 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Steam on acrylic is magic. You just have to be careful. My biggest gripe is the inability to find a steamer that will work properly horizontally. Let us know if you find one, please. :)

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      It IS magic, Kelley! I watched a lot of review videos and settled on a Conair. It comes in tomorrow so I'll test it out asap!

  • @Kb1901kb_kris
    @Kb1901kb_kris 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Yes pinning is the most time consuming

  • @melaniecrochets
    @melaniecrochets 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I made placemats and ironed them. I made a short video on my “channel” 🤣 only because I only saw people steaming & knew you could iron & stretch but didn’t see anyone doing it.

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Well look at you, Melanie! You need your own white "Research and Development" coat! Ha! Glad to know that works, too! I'm now trying to get my head around how this would be done with something like my little blanket. I can't imagine getting it squared without the pins and yet the pins could inhibit the iron from getting to the edges. Suggestions??

    • @melaniecrochets
      @melaniecrochets 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@margaret.olander After I ironed the placemats I ironed a sweater 😱 because it was the Harry Styles sweater with acrylic squares and a collar that curled squares that puffed & i needed it to be flat. I used a tshirt piece of cotton & the drape it gave that sweater was amazing. I have another acrylic sweater that is too small for me so I’m taking an iron to it soon. 😬 might as well, it isn’t getting worn. You can stretch & iron & change the shape & drape. Nothing melted to a stiff form but one of my placemats has some thinning spots where I’m guessing the yarn was “melted” a bit more. Never hard like when you take fire to acrylic yarn, which I don’t recommend. 🥼

  • @Manyanababy
    @Manyanababy 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    ❤️❤️❤️

  • @wendyfaustin8269
    @wendyfaustin8269 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

  • @kellyfazekas7831
    @kellyfazekas7831 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Why does the beginning remind me of a mad scientist???

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      White coat + crazy hair = mad scientist!! That's why! Ha!

  • @evettesamuel
    @evettesamuel 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I actually don't block my crochet blanket I give it as is but I fold it in plastic bags as handmade crochet shouldn't be perfect as machine made but maybe I am wrong I will give it a try next time

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I don't think perfection is what we're going for here. I'm a firm believer in the phrase "live and learn" and longtime subscribers will have heard me say "learn, grow, change, evolve." Every day, I want to be a better version of myself and presenting a handmade gift where I've put my very best effort seems to be a little extra love, if you know what I mean. Kind of like you taking the time to present them nicely in plastic bags! Clearly, the blocking enhanced the end result so I ordered a proper steamer for future projects and I've added a new skill to my yarn hobby!

  • @cynthiahansen9902
    @cynthiahansen9902 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I never block or wash and dry any of my projects!

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hey... I'm a firm believer in "whatever floats your boat!" Yarn work is just our hobby and as I've said on numerous occasions: There are no rules in crochet! Ha!

  • @deniseduenas6304
    @deniseduenas6304 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Loved the experiment and the outcome but the one thing that you said made me stop and think that maybe your making a baby blanket because of a Grand baby in your near future? My daughter is expecting so that is probably why it jumped out at me. Psst now I have to order a steamer. lol

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ha! Excellent theorizing but unfortunately wrong! I'm simply too easily bored to do big blankets and these small C2C are just the thing to keep me engaged with color changes and a different pattern for each row! (They're also valued by Warm Up America!)

  • @johnwilson6604
    @johnwilson6604 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi Margaret
    How are you doing🌹🌹?

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Just fine, John! How are you?

    • @johnwilson6604
      @johnwilson6604 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@margaret.olander I’m fine Margaret. Are you here in the States🌹🌸🌺?

  • @20oxford
    @20oxford 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    not the hand held

  • @sallythibodeaux7992
    @sallythibodeaux7992 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video! I have steam blocked acrylic squares for a blanket and it works wonderfully. However, I did melt one of my blocks a little by getting to close or steaming it too long.🧶🌸

    • @margaret.olander
      @margaret.olander  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I've ordered a proper steamer because that iron technique was nerve wracking! I don't think getting too close with a steamer will hurt it but prolonged steam in one place is the culprit. I watched a friend ruin a blouse by doing that! There was one crease she couldn't remove and instead of repeated passes over that spot, she just held it still and melted the fibers. The key is to keep it moving. Funny how I have to learn everything by trial and error. Does that say something about my hard head?

    • @sallythibodeaux7992
      @sallythibodeaux7992 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@margaret.olander I’m the same way!