Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I thought there were 20 blocks in this blanket, so why are there only 15 on the schedule in the January PDF?
A: Although the blanket has 20 blocks, February's block design will get some extra repeats in different versions, so that is why you see only 15 designs listed. Some months will have two designs, but most will have only one.
Q: Why is there no block for October listed on the schedule in the January pattern?
A: October should not have been omitted from the schedule – it will be updated to have the last block (Cable/Lace) in October; November will be seaming and catch-up, and December will be the border. This will spread out the finishing work to make it easier for folks to complete the blanket by the end of this year.
Q: Can I change which blocks are knit with which colors?
A: You certainly can use whichever colors you choose for any of the blocks, but this may affect the total quantity needed for each color. However, dye lots don't really matter with this project, so you could buy more of a color later if you run out. (Just avoid changing dye lots in the middle of a block if possible, to be on the safe side.)
Q: I didn't get the email with the pattern. What should I do?
A: Check your spam or promotions folder. Failing that, you can email info@berroco.com to make sure you're on the list if you're sure you're signed up but not receiving the emails. You will always be able to access all of the MKAL patterns on pattern page here as well: Berroco Mystery Blanket Knit Along
Q: Would it be a good idea to slip the first stitch of every row?
A: We don't recommend it. Knitting the edge stitches in stockinette stitch or garter stitch as written in the patterns will produce a tidier look after seaming and after picking up the border.
Q: Instead of joining all the blocks at the end could we pick up stitches in an existing block so they could be joined as we go along?
A: Theoretically yes, but the blocks are not going to be released in the order we are suggesting for them to be joined. You certainly don't need to use our suggested arrangement of the blocks, but you will probably want to arrange them in a way that looks most pleasing to you, which will probably not be the same order you knit them in. Also note that the blocks will have different numbers of stitches due to the different gauges of different stitch patterns (especially cabled blocks which require more), and a few of the blocks will not be worked in a way that would make picking up the stitches from a previous row feasible.
Q: How do I add my project and join in the discussion on Ravelry?
A: Ravelry has a great set of tutorials for all different parts of the website. You can start here for general how-tos, and then you can learn about using your Notebook and Projects, as well as how to use the Forums to join the crafting community.
Q: Do I need to block the squares? What about the whole blanket?
A: Blocking the squares is a good idea. It will even out stitches and can also help with the sizing. An easy method is to soak them in lukewarm water with a little bit of wool wash for about 20 minutes, squeeze out the water and roll in a towel. Lay them out on a towel on a flat surface; you don't have to pin them unless you want to! It can be good to measure them and try to gently tug (or slightly smoosh) to get them to be as close as possible to 12" x 12". Then just let them dry. That said - if you choose not to block all your squares it will not be the end of the world! Also note, some stitch patterns might be more in need of blocking than others. For example, we would especially recommend blocking the lace squares when we get to those. As for the whole blanket, it's probably not necessary especially if you blocked your squares as you go. You may want to give a light steaming to the border at the end.
Q: What cast-on method should I use?
A: The long-tail cast-on is our favorite. However, the knitted-on or cable cast-on, or whatever method you like, are all fine.
Q: Should I bind off in stockinette or in pattern?
A: You can bind off in stockinette unless the pattern states otherwise.
Q: On Block 2, does Row 1 of the chart begin on the wrong side?
A: Yes. Chart rows are numbered with RS rows numbers on the right-hand side of the chart, and WS row numbers on the left, so this indicates that Row 1 is a WS row.
Q: Should I weave in the ends on each block or leave them for sewing?
A: Your choice! If you leave the ends long enough to use for sewing, that could save you some time and you'll ultimately have fewer ends to weave. If your ends are not long enough to use for sewing, you could weave them in after completing a block if you'd like to avoid having many to weave in at the end, or you could wait if you prefer to weave them into the seams.
Q: Do I have to use a Berroco yarn to participate in the MKAL?
A: We appreciate everyone who is participating in the MKAL! While we would prefer you use Berroco yarn, we are happy to have you in the group no matter what yarn you're are using. However, using a Berroco yarn (or one from any of our partner brands: West Yorkshire Spinners, Lang, WoolAddicts, Amano, or Lopi) is a requirement for prize giveaways.