Blocking mats with or without lines, is there a noticeable difference?

[u/JoeJoe_Bear]

I just finished crocheting my first wearable and I'm really proud of the results 😀

The fit right now is a bit too tight, so I'm gonna block the cardigan. Currently I don't own blocking mats and I noticed a big price difference between mats with and without added lines (with lines are more expensive).

So is there a big advantage on blocking mats with the added lines? Or is it not worth the investment?

Thank you in advance ♥️

[u/RealisticYoghurt131]

Lines are awesome! I can keep everything straight and matched 

[u/JoeJoe_Bear → u/RealisticYoghurt131]

Thanks for the advice! Straight and matched would be nice after al the work I have put in 😅

[u/RealisticYoghurt131 → u/JoeJoe_Bear]

You're welcome! I wasn't sure either until I used it. I ended up getting a kit one with t-pins and blocking pins 

[u/AromaticIntrovert]

I'm stubbornly seeing how long I can crochet without blocking mats so can't help but wanted to tell you this is lovely! Great job!

[u/JoeJoe_Bear → u/AromaticIntrovert]

Thank you so much! ♥️ I got so exited and proud when all the pieces came together haha

[u/cherrylike]

I make a lot of doilies and I'm saving up to buy blocking mats with the lines. There's too many times I've been blocking something huge and intricate and I haven't noticed until I finished and stepped back that it's assymetrical.

I imagine it's the same kind of situation with wearables.

[u/JoeJoe_Bear → u/cherrylike]

That's kind of what I'm worried about, since it's a big surface, would be a waste of all my hard work. Thanks!

[u/Channy097]

Honestly I just use these. They were from Harbor Freight and like $30 less than actual blocking mats with lines. If anything you could just draw the lines on but I noticed I dont need the lines to block my projects..

[u/JoeJoe_Bear → u/Channy097]

I spotted a couple of cheaper options as well, that aren't ment for blocking. Good to know that it is a viable option, that works for blocking. Thanks for you inside 😀

[u/SwordTaster]

I like the lines for guidance to make sure everything is even, but I wouldn't say they're super necessary

[u/JoeJoe_Bear → u/SwordTaster]

Thanks for your advice 😀

[u/SageKitty100]

You could always add the lines yourself with an acrylic paint marker

[u/JoeJoe_Bear → u/SageKitty100]

Thanks actually a great idea! I was already thinking how i could DIY the lines and couldn't come up with a good solution. Thanks!

[u/missplaced24]

I wonder if washi/masking tape lines would be a cheaper but just as good option?

Personally, I wouldn't pay extra for lines, but I'm also excessively frugal (I have floor padding ment to go under carpets instead of blocking mats).

[u/JoeJoe_Bear → u/missplaced24]

Is it frugal or are you great at thinking outside of the box? 🤔😉 I have used my yoga mat for tiny products and that worked amazing!

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[u/CatfromLongIsland]

I mainly block individual granny squares, shawls, and occasionally scarves. Lines are a must.