How to correctly block to make afghan squares the same size?

[cathyheidt]

I've finally finished what seems like two million afghan squares and want to join them all together for my daughter. They are crocheted rather than knit but I don't think that matters. The squares vary in size from 6 1/2 inches to more than 7 1/2 inches. Is it possible to block the bigger ones to 7 inches as well as the smaller ones? Would it be better to block them all to 7 1/2 inches? Help!!!

[Jan in CA]

What is the fiber content of the yarn you used? That is quite a stretch for the smaller ones, but if they are knit loosely it's worth a try. You'll have to soak them then lay them out and measure and pin to size.

Some fibers may not want to hold that size when dry. Sewing will hold them a bit as well so if you can block them some it might be fine.

I haven't tried this so hopefully someone else can chime in soon.

[salmonmac]

i agree about the possible difficulty in blocking all the squares to the largest size. What about adding a small border around the smallest squares to bring them closer to the larger size?

[GrumpyGramma]

Since the blocks are crocheted I agree that working a row of sc around the smaller blocks to even out the sizes might work better. If you've used synthetic fiber yarn, when it is washed and dried the blocks will all want to return to their original size.

[cathyheidt]

Thanks for the suggestions. To give you more info, the yarn is 55% merino wool, 33% microfibre and 12% cashmere. I've knitted a variety of patterns of blocks. The best way to describe them is granny squares although some are solid stripes.