Super Easy DIY Sock Blockers (Tutorial)

I've always wanted some sock blockers, but was a bit skeptical about paying $20-30 for one... If you're like me, try these... they are really easy to make and cost me a dollar. Oh, just why did it took me so long to get inspired....

ETA 5/5/07: I'm absolutely thrilled to learned that this tutorial has been featured on Craftzine. Thanks Natalie, and also Erin for forwarding me the link. Yay!

Materials:

• a piece of plastic placemat or any thick-ish plastics sheet. The piece of placemat that I used measured 11.5" x 17" x 0.7mm thick, and was just enough for a pair of women's small size.
• A piece of cardboard (a cereal box will do the job)
• A pair of sharp kitchen scissors
• Some papers, a pencil and a ruler

Step-by-step instructions:

1. With a pencil, draw out the desired shape of your sock blocker on a piece of paper. Cut and trace it on your cardboard.

ETA 7/5/07: A few people were asking about my sketch/template, so I've uploaded it here for your easy access. It has been shrunk to fit into a letter/A4 page, but you can always resize it by drawing or with a photocopier.



2. Cut and try your cardboard blocker on a pair of socks. Make any adjustments and redo Step 1-2 if necessary.

3. Now layout both your cardboard and paper version on your placemat/plastic sheet, and secure the cardboard version to the your placemat/plastic sheet with a double-sided tape.


4. Cut along slowly and carefully with a pair of sharp kitchen scissors. Repeat.

5. Smooth out the edges of your blocker to avoid possible snags, and ya, I told you it's really easy!