Crochet Advanced Crochet Techniques 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of blocking a finished crochet piece?
- To set the stitches and even out the shape and size (Correct answer)
- To add more yarn
- To hide color changes
- To create buttonholes
Correct answer: To set the stitches and even out the shape and size
Blocking relaxes the fibers so stitches even out and the piece holds its intended dimensions.
Question 2: Which blocking method is safest for delicate or acrylic-blend yarns that can be damaged by heat?
- Wet blocking or cool spray blocking (Correct answer)
- Steam blocking at high heat
- Ironing directly on the fabric
- No blocking at all
Correct answer: Wet blocking or cool spray blocking
Acrylic can be 'killed' by high heat, so wet or cool blocking preserves the stitch texture.
Question 3: When blocking lace, why are blocking wires or many pins used?
- To open up and define the lace pattern points (Correct answer)
- To shrink the lace
- To add fringe
- To prevent washing
Correct answer: To open up and define the lace pattern points
Lace must be stretched open so the holes and points of the pattern become visible and crisp.
Question 4: What tool is commonly used to check a project's dimensions against a pattern?
- A gauge swatch measured with a ruler (Correct answer)
- A crochet hook only
- A tapestry needle
- A stitch marker
Correct answer: A gauge swatch measured with a ruler
A gauge swatch measured against the pattern's stated stitches and rows per inch confirms sizing.
Question 5: Steam blocking works best on which fiber type?
- Natural fibers like wool and cotton (Correct answer)
- 100% acrylic
- Nylon
- Polyester fleece
Correct answer: Natural fibers like wool and cotton
Natural animal and plant fibers respond well to steam without melting or losing memory.
Question 6: After wet blocking, how should a piece be dried?
- Laid flat and pinned until fully dry (Correct answer)
- Tumble dried on high
- Hung on a hanger while soaking
- Wrung out and folded
Correct answer: Laid flat and pinned until fully dry
Flat, pinned drying preserves the blocked shape while gravity from hanging would distort it.
Question 7: Why might a granny square be blocked before joining?
- To square up edges so pieces align evenly when seamed (Correct answer)
- To make it larger permanently
- To remove the color
- To add a border automatically
Correct answer: To square up edges so pieces align evenly when seamed
Blocking flattens and squares each motif so they line up cleanly during joining.
Crochet Advanced Crochet Techniques 3
What is the primary purpose of blocking a finished crochet piece?