Seeking a solution to a blanket’s edging.
Posted on Oct 13, 2009 in blanket, mason dixon knitting
I actually sort of finished this blanket, a variation of the Log Cabin blanket, about a week ago but I didn’t make a grand announcement because I’ve been stuck at the edging. The directions according to Mason-Dixon Knitting say to pick up stitches all the around and knit four rows of garter stitch. That seems easy enough but the problem is the circumference of this bad boy is at least 240 inches – each edge is about 5 feet – and my circular needle is less than 46 inches from tip to tip (the cable itself is only 36 inches). I can’t even picture myself wrestling with this blanket and it’s 240 edge stitches in my lap. Has anyone ever attempted such a feat?
Here are a couple of solutions that I’m considering:
1. Crochet edging seems like a nice mindless solution especially on a day like today when I’m stuck inside during a heavy downpour with only half power (a line came down and won’t be repaired until tomorrow) watching political pundits on TV. meh.
2. I-cord edging which I’ve never actually done but seems like it might be a nice time to try given today’s weather (see above). I love the look of i-cord but I think it will take a lot longer than a crocheted edging.
I’m open to any and all solutions at this point. The blanket was started way back on Academy Award night, over six months ago and I’m ready to be finished. It’s so cozy and warm that I’m already using it – maybe I’ll leave the edging off altogether. What do you think?
(BTW: It was just about one year ago when I met the gracious authors of Mason-Dixon Knitting, Ann Shayne and Kay Gardner, at a book signing for their newest book at Powell’s bookstore. My how time flies!)
Oh my gosh, this thing turned out HUUUGE. Is that a queen size bed?
jessa | Oct 13, 2009 | Reply
ix-nay on the edge-nay…sheesh woman what are you thinking? the only one that & would think of would be the i-cord because I think you would be able to pick up, knit, bind off, pick up, knit, bind off..however it is late and I am not entirely sure…. I just wanted to say the ix-nay thing!! smiles
liz | Oct 13, 2009 | Reply
When I made a MUCH smaller version I used several circular needles and just went from one to the next. I wrapped rubber bands around the ends to keep the stitches from falling off.
Karen | Oct 14, 2009 | Reply
Frankly, I don’t think you need an edging at all. I think you’ve earned the right to be done after knitting that enormous thing!
Sarah | Oct 14, 2009 | Reply
Frankly, I thought it was already ‘finished’ when I first saw the picture. It seems to stand on its own, as is. But do what feels right to YOU!
Libby | Oct 14, 2009 | Reply
I agree that it is beautiful as it is. If it’s going to bother you, though, not having an edgine, and I-cord would be nice.
Kathy | Oct 15, 2009 | Reply
Why not use the edging from their Moderne Log Cabin? It’s knit on each edge separately and then seamed (tiny little seams, take just a second to do).
elizabeth | Oct 15, 2009 | Reply
well done on completing the blanket. it does look very nice without an edging. I have one of similar size on our bed, made of crochet squares. The edging for that is done in dc stitch. I spread it over the bed, and worked around it. Had a chair nearby for when sitting down was required.
Enid Shaw | Oct 16, 2009 | Reply
I say leave the edging off it looks great the way it is. I have been wanting to try & make a Log Cabin Blanket I really love your color choices.
Rae | Nov 1, 2009 | Reply
The blanket is GORGEOUS! I’m totally impressed.
Laura | Nov 1, 2009 | Reply