Double-Sided Blocking Board for Granny Squares - Opry

For consistent series, work with the piece clean and slightly damp, secure corners and centres with pins and check measurements with a tape measure. The Opry double-sided blocking board for granny squares lets you repeat the same template on every motif, since its holes help place the anchors in identical spots each time. Adjust gently: the key is to align, not to stretch the stitches.

After the first adjustment, wait a few minutes and carry out a second check by moving one or two pins if you notice deviations. Leave to dry flat, away from direct heat, and record your pin arrangement (photo or sketch) to replicate it. With a consistent routine, you’ll reduce corrections and enjoy faster, cleaner assembly later on.

The method depends on the fibre and stitch texture. For wool and other animal fibres, wet blocking usually gives the best results (brief soak, squeeze gently without wringing, then pin out), while cotton and linen often respond well to generous spraying or a short soak. For acrylics, use steam blocking at a distance without touching. The Opry double-sided blocking board for granny squares holds the outline steady as it dries or cools, making it easy to replicate measurements across a series.

Before starting your main project, test the method on a swatch to see how much it relaxes. Measure sides and diagonals, spread the tension with several pins and avoid direct heat, especially with acrylic. If the stitch has texture (raised or lacy patterns), block gently so as not to flatten it. Record pin positions and measurements to repeat the process safely and achieve identical blocked pieces.

The board offers a 35 × 35 cm working surface, suitable for most standard granny squares, hexagons and modular strips. With the Opry double-sided blocking board for granny squares you can outline straight edges and diagonals, marking corners and midpoints so every repeat comes out identical. For larger motifs, block in panels and join afterwards to avoid straining the fabric.

For irregular shapes, first anchor the functional points (tips, direction changes) and add intermediate pins wherever ripples appear. It is more effective to use more pins with light tension than a few with excessive pull. This way you’ll achieve straight edges or smooth curves that remain stable after drying and during use.

For a standard square granny, start with four pins at the corners and another four at the midpoints of each side. The Opry double-sided blocking board for granny squares helps repeat this arrangement thanks to its grid; place the remaining four pins where you see rippling or slight twisting. Measure sides and diagonals to confirm that the outline is balanced before drying.

For hexagons or strips, distribute the 12 pins evenly, following vertices and section midpoints. It’s better to use more anchors with light tension than fewer with strong pull; this prevents peaks and arched edges. Always repeat the same arrangement when working in series so all pieces match in size and shape without straining the stitches.

The 12 cm pins give you enough height to stack several thin pieces, as long as they’re not compressed. On the Opry double-sided blocking board for granny squares, you can add thin separators (smooth cardboard or perforated sheets) and control moisture to allow airflow. This technique speeds up production with cotton or fine acrylic when making many identical blocks.

Always prioritise precision: if you notice layers interfering or drying takes too long, block in smaller batches. Using multiple boards or extra pins also helps keep up the pace without compromising regularity. The aim is for each piece to keep its shape and size once dry, without marks or distortion.

After heavy use, wipe the surface of the Opry blocking board with a cloth, remove any moisture from the holes and store the bag with the pins in a ventilated place. Keep the wood away from heat sources or direct sunlight and avoid abrasive products. A clean board prevents stains on light-coloured fibres and keeps just the right amount of grip so motifs don’t slip while anchoring.

Check that the threads screw smoothly and clean out any fluff or dust that may build up. Working on a firm table reduces strain and knocks. With this basic care, the hole alignment stays true, the pins last longer and blocking remains precise over time, even with frequent use on large series.