Since this topic has come up in another thread, I'd like to make a few comments on the Not Really 6 x 6's, if that is okay.
Firstly I just love Shelagh's solution with her comfort afgan. It is almost like a crazy quilt. The black background is a major element and it doesn't matter at all how "wrongly" the squares measure 6 x 6. In fact the variety of sizes makes it all the more interesting. I just love this solution.
Shelagh's comfort afgan:
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I have been trying to be accurate with my squares. I only frog about 3 rows if they come out wrong (you can really tell, with only that much), and it is easy to measure the vertical as you knit along. Also, it is easier to incorporate a square that is too small, than one that is too large (for a symetrical afgan). One can just add a few more rounds to the edges of a too small one. I also keep notes on the type of yarn vs. the number of stitches to cast on for it to come out 6 x 6. Then I can get it right with the very first row. And I always use a size 6 needles. (I knit, can't crochet.) Also if you have a pattern or design, take notes. Next time you can center it perfectly. Graph paper works great. Sometimes if they come out a tad too big or too small, blocking will correct it. And blocking is not ironing, pressing the iron onto it, nor stretching it out. It can result in a beautiful square if you take a ruler to make sure it is 6 x 6. Put a straight pin in each corner so that it is not more and not less than 6 x 6. Put 3 or 4 pins along each edge to evenly squish it in or pull it out, as need be. If you don't have a padded ironing board, do it on a bed. Then take a damp towel and lay it over the square. Then take a steam iron and slowly steam it, not letting the full weight of the iron press on it. When you take the towel off, it will look really nice and be 6 x 6 (unless it is way, way off mark.) Also, some of the man-made yarns will melt, if you press hard. But thank you so much, Shelagh, for showing me a way to use ALL my wonderful squares I've received from you all. I just love it. I hope my comments are helpful and not taken as criticism. Kira