Finish a Project Properly

The last stage that separates a finished object from an unfinished one, and stalls more projects than any other.

Most projects do not fail at the hard part. They fail in the last ten percent: the ends not woven in, the seams not pressed, the blocking never done. This list exists because finishing is a different kind of work from making, and it needs its own start.

Weave in every end, on the wrong side, in more than one direction A single straight run of ends can work loose in the wash. Change direction once to lock it.
Press or block the piece as the material requires Blocking knitted and crocheted fabric evens out the stitches. Pressing seams opens them and sets the shape. Neither is optional if you want it to look made.
Trim loose threads, but not too close Cut them to about a quarter inch. Cutting flush lets the thread pull through and unravel.
Check the finished measurements against the plan optional Worth knowing before it is gifted or sold, and worth recording so your next estimate is better.
Look at it in daylight from a distance Flaws invisible close up in the evening are obvious at arm length in daylight. Do this before you decide it is finished.
Add the label, tag or signature optional Care label, fibre content, your maker mark. Regulations differ by country and by product, so check what applies where you sell.
Photograph it finished and note what you would change optional Two minutes now saves an hour of trying to remember later.
Store it properly or give it away optional A finished piece left in a bag on the floor gets damaged and stops being finished. Put it somewhere it belongs.

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