Gauge Swatch Questions

[catwoman]

Hi.I was wondering if a person has to block (wet)their swatch?would it make any different in the sets and rows of the swatch?I know that when I was taught knitting or crocheting  a gauge swatch they never said anything about wetting (blocking) a gauge swatch?.wouldn’t the swatch while wet making the sts expand and then dry go back to original size? What are you guys opinions on it?what do you guys think.

[magiccrochetfan]

It is always a good idea to launder the swatch as you will the finished article.  

[redrosesdz]

It depends on the yarn. Manmade fibers, like acrylic, it won't make a difference. Plant fibers is a small difference. Animal fibers make the most difference, especially wool. Blends, go with the highest fiber content. 

So, definitely wet animal fibers. It's up to you on the others. I mostly use acrylic and cotton. I don't wet block swatches for either one. I do wet block final products that are gifts or wearables, sp that they look nicer.