3 Bonus Steps Of How To Finger Knit A Blanket?

If you want to know how to finger knit a blanket, we’ll teach you three easy steps. Finger knitting is not overly complicated, but you still need to know the proper techniques to skip the frustrations. Isn’t it neat that knitting is possible using your fingers?

It’s amazing how people in the United Kingdom come up with different techniques to create a knitted blanket. From arms to fingers, you have no excuse to skip learning this project. Proceed on reading to get started!

 

How Do You Knit A Blanket With Your Fingers For Beginners?

Finger knitting is a practice that has been around for a long time. There are different techniques to try, but the primary essence of finger knitting a blanket uses four digits of a hand. You can cast on your left hand if you’re right-handed or cast onto your right hand if you’re left-handed. 

 

1. Knit the first strip

Start by casting on four stitches using the double e-wrap method. You’ll also be using the flat knit stitch as it will be easier for finger knitting a blanket. To do so, lay your yarn above the loops on your fingers and then lift the bottom loop over the top.

Your first row will be knitting across four stitches, and you’ll repeat it to reach the length of the blanket. You can end the row by having the working yarn on your first digit finger and bind off four stitches to leave the finger’s last loop. Finally, move the circle to your first digit finger and proceed to the second step. 

 

2. Widen the blanket

Now that you have reached your desired blanket length, it’s time to widen it by joining more strips. Cast on three stitches to the last three fingers and knit four stitches to reach your index finger. The idea here is to join the strip you just made in step one by knitting along the edge closest to the index finger. 

For your second row, you will place the loose stitch at the edge of your index finger. Flat knit two stitches over one on your first stitch and knit three stitches. At this point, you’ll repeat what you did on the first and second row to reach your cast-on or last stitch. 

 

3. Finish the blanket and weave in ends

Place the cast-on stitch on your index finger and bind off.  You’ll knit two stitches over one on the first stitch and continue adding strips until your blanket reaches its final dimensions. Weave in ends, and you finished. 

If you’re not sure how to bind off or cast off your finger knit blanket, here is what to do:

 

How to cast off your finger knit blanket

You will start by flat knitting the first stitch on your first finger (index finger) and knit the second stitch on the middle finger. Move it on top of the first and have the bottom loop over the top. Get the stitch on the index finger and move to the next finger to have your first stitch. 

Then, knit the second stitch or the one on your ring finger and move it to your middle finger. Work it again from the bottom over the top and move the first stitch to the ring finger. This technique will be your first stitch again. 

We’re almost there. Knit the second stitch or the one on your pinkie and move to the stitch on the ring finger. Work the stitch from the bottom over the top and move the first stitch to the index finger to get your first stitch. 

 

How Much Yarn Do I Need For A Finger Knit Blanket?

The amount of yarn you’ll use for finger-knitting will depend on the type of blanket you want to make. For example, some knitted throw blankets take up to 6 skeins for you to end up with 50 inches wide and 60 inches in length. 

 

What Kind Of Yarn Do You Use For Finger Knitting?

The best yarn for finger knitting is anything bulky or chunky. A super-bulky yarn will be easy to work with your fingers, especially for a beginner. Aran or DK are also suitable options. 

 

Bulky and chunky

Chunky and bulky yarns are sometimes interchangeable, but bulky yarns are larger than chunky yarns. Chunky yarns, on the other hand, are thicker than worsted. 

 

Worsted and Aran

Other weight yarns that are interchangeable are worsted and aran. However, worsted yarns are more delicate than aran. Therefore, you might find aran yarns labelled as heavy worsted. 

 

DK

DK or double knit is one of the most popular weights. It is slightly heavier than a sport weight yarn, and it’s also called 8-ply in some places in the UK.

Conclusion

Did you know that your fingers are also helpful for knitting? In this article, we have taught you how to finger knit a blanket in three easy steps. You can cast on any hand with the double-wrap method and use the flat knit stitch. 

The amount of yarn you’ll need will depend on the blanket size. It’s also helpful to use something chunky to help you with knitting. Overall, we hope we’ve shared some valuable tips to get you started with a finger-knitted blanket!

 

how to make a swaddle blanket with velcro

How To Make A Swaddle Blanket With Velcro? 4 Free Steps!

Swaddle blankets are great to use for babies as they are soft, stretchy, and lightweight. But do you know how to make a swaddle blanket with Velcro for even easier use?

 

Swaddle blankets are known to have many benefits for babies, and babies who sleep well have parents who sleep well, too.

 

Below is a step-by-step guide to helping you make a swaddle blanket for the little one.

 

Step-By-Step Guide On How To Make A Swaddle Blanket With Velcro

 

Step #1. Buy and cut the fabric

Using muslin or cotton gauze fabric is excellent for a soft, stretchy, and lightweight swaddle.

 

For two swaddles of about 44 by 44 inches, you need two and a half square yards of fabric.

 

You will need about three and a half square yards for a more oversized swaddle that is 60 by 60 inches in size.

 

Because muslin or cotton tends to shrink, put the fabric through the washer and dryer before cutting it. Run a small load with cold water and tumble dry on low.

 

After, you can iron the fabric to smooth out wrinkles and creases.

 

Using a swaddle pattern, cut out a 44 by 44 inches square, but you may increase or decrease the size of the fabric accordingly.

 

Remember to mark the placement where you are supposed to sew the Velcro in.

 

Step #2. Create the hem and sew the swaddle

Fold the edges of the fabric over half an inch. Smooth down the fabric as you sew along with the blanket.

 

If the corners come undone, you can try putting a heavy book or a paperweight to weigh it down as you sew.

 

Do a second fold, ironing the edges of the hem to keep the fabric in place. Be careful when using the iron, and don’t forget to turn it off after using it.

 

Sew along the fold to finish the hem and ensure no excess fabric sticking out of the swaddle.

 

Step #3. Adding the Velcro

Pin the smooth side of the Velcro down on the marked areas on the swaddle and sew along the edges of the Velcro strap.

 

Take care not to sew along the pins to avoid malfunction on your sewing machine.

 

Step #4. Using the swaddle blanket

Wrap your baby in the swaddle during naps or at nighttime, fold the swaddle into a triangle and place the baby with their shoulders even along the fold.

 

Bring the left corner of the swaddle to the baby and tuck it under their body between their side and right arm.

 

Bring the bottom end of the swaddle up to their feet and tuck in the tip. Fold the right corner over the baby and fasten with Velcro.

 

Benefits of using a swaddle blanket

There are many benefits to using a swaddle blanket. Some of them are the following.

 

  • It mimics the womb

Swaddling recreates a secure and cosy environment for the baby that makes them feel like they are in the womb.

 

Swaddling makes the baby’s transition from the womb to the world more accessible.

 

  • It minimizes Moro reflex

The Moro reflex or startle reflex is a normal neurological response that makes babies feel like they are falling.

 

They experience this all the time in the first three to four months of life.

 

While it indicates a healthy infant, it can disturb the baby’s sleep as it has involuntary movements that could wake them up.

 

Swaddling helps prevent these spontaneous movements, making it easier for the baby to sleep through the night.

 

  • It regulates the temperature

Swaddling helps maintain the optimal temperature for babies, so you must be using high-quality, breathable fabric.

 

Avoid double swaddling or using a blanket as these can be too warm for the baby.

 

Over bundling could lead to overheating, increasing the risk for Sudden Infant Death (SID).

 

  • It alleviates colic

Parenting an infant with colic can be very difficult as it makes parents feel helpless in their inability to stop their child from crying.

 

Swaddling can have a therapeutic effect on a baby suffering from colic. It applies light pressure on the baby’s belly, giving a cocoon-like feeling that provides relief for the baby.

 

  • It reduces incidents of SIDs

Newborn infants need to sleep on their back to avoid suffocating through the night.

 

Swaddling the baby in a supine position helps the baby maintain a safe sleeping position.

 

For babies who are not yet capable of rolling over, this significantly diminishes the risk of SIDs.

Conclusion

Swaddled babies tend to be happier babies, so if you know how to make a swaddle blanket with Velcro, this is a great way to help your angel adjust and transition outside the womb.

 

Swaddling can help soothe and settle your baby, but more than that, it also triggers a relaxation mechanism, making them happier and more comfortable.

 

Give yourself and your baby the gift of a swaddle blanket with adjustable Velcro tabs to make the swaddle blanket more adaptable and better fitting for all babies.

how to clean a hudson bay wool blanket

How To Clean A Hudson Bay Wool Blanket? 3 New Steps!

Learning how to clean a Hudson bay wool blanket only takes about three steps.

 

They are one of the blankets with a rich and memorable history, created by Hudson’s Bay Company(HBC), dating back to the 1700s.

 

Miraculously, these blankets still manufactured to date.

 

Hudson bay wool blankets are products made of 100% wool that contain the four iconic stripes of green, red, yellow and indigo embedded in a white background.

 

They come with authenticity seals and a unique point system that indicates the size of the blanket.

 

Though they originated in British North America, now known as Canada, the Hudson bay blankets are now shipped worldwide.

 

Since it made with pure wool, Hudson bay blankets are pretty thick and warm and are said to last generations.

 

They have become an item for collectors whose price could reach thousands of dollars depending on the age and rarity of the blanket.

 

If you are one of the lucky ones who own these priced blankets, we’ll share some tips on how you can keep them clean and still in one piece.

 

Basic Steps On How To Clean A Hudson Bay Wool Blanket

You might be considering it’s okay to wash your Hudson bay blanket using the exact steps you do for all your other garments.

 

While those garments cleaned thoroughly, we recommend taking extra measures for these blankets, mainly if you have originated way back.

 

Here are some steps you can try next time you’re cleaning your blanket.

 

Step #1. Rinse your wool blanket

The wool used by HBC preshrunk, meaning they treated during the manufacturing process.

 

The treatment is so that its fibres lock in place and reduce any change in shape after the product made.

 

Reduction of change in shape allows you to hand wash your blanket and still get its authentic look and texture afterwards.

 

Rinse the blanket with a basin of water before using any detergent. Rinsing will help with the distribution of soap and the removal of dirt later on.

 

You can leave it to soak for five minutes before taking it out.

 

Step #2. Hand wash the blanket with mild liquid detergent

Check if the blanket has been wet all over before introducing it to soap.

 

If so, mix enough liquid detergent on a basin of water, then soak your blanket there for at least fifteen minutes.

 

HBC recommends using detergents like Zero or Woolite for your wash to help your blanket keep its form. 

 

Gently, hand wash through the entire blanket, making sure that you pass through every inch of the blanket.

 

When you’re confident that you’ve removed all the dirt on the blanket, you can then squeeze off all the soapy water. Never wring or twist your blanket lest you risk damaging it.

 

Step #3. Rinse off all the soap, suds and bubbles

Fill a basin, large enough to submerge the blanket, with water.

 

Rinse the blanket three times to remove all the soap by swirling and squeezing it gently in the basin.

 

After all the soap removed, transfer the blanket to a basket with holes to allow the water to flow out of it.

 

You can opt to maximize this water transfer by cradling the basket of your blanket up in a pail. You can leave it there for some time to drain most of the water.

 

Another thing you can try is spin-drying your blanket.

 

Other than washing your blanket, there are different ways to take care of it.

 

Since washing your blanket often puts it at risk of getting scratched and damaged, we suggest you opt to brush it occasionally.

 

Brushing occasionally should be enough to remove any foreign things stuck on the fabric. You must also pay attention to how and where you store it.

Is it safe to machine-wash a Hudson bay wool blanket?

Most wool blankets allow machine washing by using a gentle cycle.

 

However, manufacturers of the Hudson bay blanket recommend handwashing.

 

If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can send your blanket to a dry cleaner for thorough and safe cleaning.

 

We recommend that you wrap it in a fabric bag; a pillowcase will also protect it from insects.

 

You can store it hanging or folded but avoid storing it in plastic since build-up humidity will damage it.

 

For long-time storage, regularly take it out to air it and refold it, so no permanent crease occurs and avoid the development of any disturbing smell.

 

How to safely dry a Hudson bay wool blanket

One tricky part of washing the Hudson bay wool blanket is in the drying.

 

To do this safely, take a terry cloth towel, then gently press it to the blanket.

 

You can also place your blanket on top of layered towels, which will absorb the water.

 

After which, lay the blanket somewhere flat to dry it entirely somewhere under the shade. Please do not hang your blanket or place it under direct sunlight.

 

Conclusion 

We have shared with you all that we know on how to clean a Hudson Bay wool blanket and some other tips to keep it well.

 

There may be some tricks that are hard to remember, but practice should get you there.

 

After all, HBC assures us that a Hudson bay wool blanket will last decades and generations.

How To Hang Blanket On Wall

Example Of How To Hang Blanket On Wall? Free Guide!

Did you know that it’s possible to learn how to hang blanket on wall without nails? We will also talk about using pins and nails correctly, but we still got you covered if you don’t want to poke through your blanket. But first, why hang a blanket on a wall?

Some throw blankets are not limited to being left in the bed or couch. There are also so-called tapestries that you can hang on the wall or ceiling. To help you understand this blanket decorating styling, let’s get started!

 

All The Best Ways To Hang A Blanket On A Wall

 

With nails or pins

The easiest way to hang a blanket on a wall is with nails or pushpins. It’s straightforward, and you don’t need other tools to do so. You can place the nails or pins only at the corners, but if you don’t want a draped finish, setting the nails in a row at the top of the blanket will make a straighter look. 

 

How Do You Hang A Blanket On The Wall Without Ruining It?

Using nails or pins is not desired by many UK homeowners because their sharp tips can ruin some blankets or walls. Therefore, this method of hanging the blanket is only helpful if you’re using larger weaves. Here are the four best ways to hang a blanket on the wall without nails or pins.

 

  • With a frame or board

If you have an extra plywood board or a piece of a wooden frame, you can use them for hanging the blanket on the wall. Stretch the fabric over the wooden frame and secure it in place with a staple gun. Be sure to fold the material over the frame to help it look neat before mounting the frame with picture hangers on the wall. 

But if your blanket is relatively thin, you need to reinforce it with a plywood board before placing it on the frame. This way, it won’t look awkward being framed, and the wall behind it won’t be seen. In some cases, you can even place a glass in the frame to protect the blanket, especially if the material is fragile. 

 

  • Use a baseboard

Those who want to hang a heavy blanket on the wall will need additional support to secure the piece in place. You can use a baseboard or any sturdy material that you can fit in the rod pocket of your blanket. Some blankets may not have a rod pocket on the back, so make sure to sew one quickly using durable fabric. 

Cut a board shorter than the width of the blanket and make drill holes for the screws. Slide it into the rod pocket and fold the sides of the blanket back. To put the tapestry on the wall, screw it in place. 

 

  • With a rod or hanger

Speaking of blankets with pockets, some tapestries have this same feature, so you can insert a rod to hang the blanket on the wall. You can also treat the blanket like a curtain and drape it over. If you don’t have a rod, use a poster hanger for your tapestry as long as it’s the right size. 

 

  • With Velcro

Did you know that Velcro tape is a valuable adhesive for textiles? You don’t need to worry about holes in the walls because you can attach the blanket to the wall with self-adhesive Velcro tape. As a bonus, this tape is helpful for curved surfaces to help the blanket follow the shape. 

 

  • With curtain tabs

Remember the rod pocket earlier? There is another way to hang a blanket on the wall, and it’s making curtain tabs. Sew strips of canvas fabric a few inches below the top hem of your blanket to create hidden curtain tabs. 

With these tabs in place, you can treat your blanket like a curtain but with added security instead of just draping it over the rod. 

 

How To Hang Heavy Blankets

Using a baseboard is a quick DIY solution for hanging heavy blankets. However, you can also make a hanger yourself that creates a seamless appearance on your blanket because one will hide it. Here is how to make one:

 

  1. Drill a piece of wood with the same length as your blanket and around two inches thick to your wall
  2. Using a hook and loop tape, attach the hook side onto the wood piece and the loop side on the top edge of the blanket
  3. With the pair in place, you only need to press the blanket onto the wall

What Are The Blankets You Hang On Walls Called?

The blankets that you hang on the wall are also called tapestries. The name tapestry is why the terms are used interchangeably throughout the guide. However, the blanket itself can also be a throw blanket or any decorative piece of textile. 

Conclusion

Did you know that you can also hang textiles and not just posters on walls? But how to hang blanket on wall the best way? The most straightforward method is by pinning or nailing it in place. 

However, you risk ruining the fabric or wall because of the pointed tips. Some good alternatives are a frame, baseboard, rod, Velcro, and curtain tabs. You can even make a quick hanger for heavier blankets. 

how to make a baby blanket with yarn

How To Make A Baby Blanket With Yarn? 2 Proven Methods!

There are two known methods on how to make a baby blanket with yarn in the UK.

 

You can either crochet it or knit it, depending on your personal preference.

 

Though, no matter which method you go for, you will still be pouring hard work, dedication, and love into it.

 

There is something special in knowing that your handiwork helps keep your baby warm and comfortable.

 

Before making it, though, you must know the proper size, how many yarns you will need, and what type of yarn you should be using.

 

How To Make A Baby Blanket With Yarn

If you are looking to make a baby blanket using yarn but are a bit lost on how you should to do it, you can go for either of these 2 methods;

 

Method #1. Crocheting

 

  • Step #1. Plan the baby blanket. That includes deciding on the size, choosing the yarn, and picking a hook.

 

  • Step #2. Know what stitches you will be using. There are several crochet stitches and techniques you can choose from, some more complex than others.

 

  • Step #3. Make the starting chain, which is the foundation of the whole blanket.

 

  • Step #4. Learn to either single or double crochet.

 

 

  • Step #6. Crochet the first row. Start off with the second chain from the hook, work single or double crochet stitches along your starting chain.

 

 

 

 

Method #2. Knitting

 

 

  • Step #2. Create a slipknot and put it on your right-hand needle.

 

Loop the yarn strands around the index and middle finger twice and pull the first loop through the second one. 

 

Pull the tail to tighten it.

 

  • Step #3. Cast on about 133 stitches. Work on both strands at once. Loop the working yarn around the left-hand needle’s end. 

 

Into the loop, insert your right-hand needle. Now, you can pull the yarn through the loop on your left-hand needle.

 

  • Step #4. Knit across the rows to work it in the garter stitch. This stitch is simple and easy to operate, perfect for beginners.

 

Though, you are free to use other stitches.

 

  • Step #5. Work across your rows using a specialty stitch to make a more intricate and complex-looking blanket.

 

You can try waffle, rice, bamboo, seed, or brioche stitch.

 

  • Step #6. To create stripes, you can change up the color every 10 colors.

 

  • Step #7. Continue until you reach the size you want.

 

  • Step #8. Finish up the blanket by binding the last row. Tie off the last stitch and then weave the end with a needle.

 

Cut a satin border to cover the blanket’ parameter and pin it in place.

How Big Is A Baby Blanket?

There are various sizes of baby blankets. It all falls on the purpose and use of the blanket.

 

A newborn baby blanket is usually around the size of 30” x 30”. 

 

A crib blanket can range from 36” x 54” up to 45” x 60”. One of the biggest is the Swaddle Blanket which is about 40” x 40” up to 48” x 48”.

 

How Many Balls Of Yarn To Make A Baby Blanket?

It depends on the size of the baby blanket and the yarn you are using.

 

A small blanket fit for an infant can use up to 1 to 3 skeins of yarn, while a bigger baby blanket might need about 3 to 7 skeins to complete.

 

To have a more accurate answer, you can manually calculate it.

 

Just divide the yards you need by the yards per ball, which you can determine through the yarn’s label.

 

What Type of Yarn Should I Use For A Baby Blanket?

As the name implies, baby blankets are for babies, which means that they must be tailored and made for the comfort of a baby.

 

Baby blankets must be easy to care for and are soft against the baby’s skin. In making one, it is vital to know what type of yarn to use. 

 

Here are some of the best yarn materials to use!

 

Cotton

Cotton yarns are primarily cool and crisp, which would put your mind at ease when you are worried about your baby overheating.

 

This yarn is also durable and easy to care for. It is also soft and would be perfect for babies with sensitive skin.

 

Polyester/Acrylics

If you are looking for yarns that are easy to care for, these would be the top choices. They are washable by machine and would hold up well.

 

Most of these yarns are not scratchy and are also friendly to the baby’s sensitive skin.

 

Conclusion

Baby blankets are a good project for novice and beginner knitters or crocheters in the UK. It is the perfect gift to give your baby or a friend with one.

 

The method you used on how to make a baby with a yarn doesn’t matter, as long as the baby who will use it is happy, warm, and cuddled!

what is a falsa blanket

Example Of What Is A Falsa Blanket? Free Guide For Beginners!

What is a falsa blanket, and why is it popular in yoga studios?

 

The falsa is a Mexican blanket prized for its vibrant colours, loose weave, and knotted ends.

 

In yoga, it’s so convenient to roll or fold them up, ready for use when needed. 

 

In this article, you’ll learn about the falsa—how it came about and why it’s the best for yoga.

 

On top of that, you’ll never be confused between the sarape and the falsa again.

 

The Origins Of Falsa In Yoga

Before falsa became the go-to blanket of yogis, cotton blankets from India were the default.

 

In the 1960s, this was the case up until B.K.S Iyengar, a yoga instructor, purchased his first falsa on his trip to Mexico.

 

From that point on, Mexican blankets became the norm. 

 

He bought the blankets in bulk and was pleased over the durability of the blanket.

 

Considering the low prices, the blanket was more challenging than cotton ones.

 

Thus, it became a trend for yoga blankets to be durable and thick, to be able to support the poses and asanas of yoga. 

 

Falsa Vs. Sarape Blankets

Before you enrol in a yoga class, you must learn the distinction between a falsa and a sarape blanket.

 

Be attentive, for they are almost identical. The appearance might fool you and demand a closer look. 

 

Serapes are mainly for decorating at home. Unlike the standard “X” pattern in falsa, the design is more intricate, with stripes in bright colours.

 

Often, serapes have fringes and openings similar to the poncho, an item of Mexican clothing. 

 

Men tend to wear the serape in mainstream culture. Although if need be, the blanket can also be used in meditation to cushion the knees.

 

The serape now found among upholstery, table cloths, bedspreads, and car seat blankets

 

Each hand-woven piece is unique. In general, however, the serape is made of thinner fabric, so the blanket is lighter, too.

 

You can use the serape as a throw blanket during cold nights, on the couch, or in hammocks.

 

To distinguish a good quality serape blanket, look for vivid colours and a softer texture.

 

The Mexican market might rip you off with rough ones, whose stripes blur due to poor weaving. Also, check if the threads stay in place. 

 

On the other hand, falsa is almost identical—lightweight and durable. Typically, they are longer than falsa blankets, about 75″ in length.

 

Remember to consider your height when choosing blankets so that you can fit inside. 

 

Falsa blankets are common sightings in yoga sessions.

 

What sets it apart dramatically from a serape is the thicker threads and more loose weave, similar to knitted ones.

 

As for the design, the falsa features diamonds and stripes, all for a rustic effect. 

 

Lastly, perhaps the best thing is how durable the blanket is—lasting for years, even more.

 

The colourful threads are all recycled, too, to help the environment.  

 

What Is A Falsa Blanket’s Relevance To Yoga

Yogis adore the soft but firm feel of Mexican blankets, aside from the aesthetic value of the Mexican theme.

 

Since yoga class lasts for a few hours only, yogis find it convenient to roll the blanket and store it within seconds.

 

The falsa is prevalent padding due to its materials. 

 

Due to the thickness of the blanket, yogis can exercise barefoot under challenging poses.

 

The blend of materials, cotton, acrylic, and polyester, allows it to absorb sweat without being damp.

 

The padding is a great conductor of body heat. 

 

Falsa, like serape, can be decorative as well. If the blanket is not due for yoga, it can stay at home for aesthetic purposes.

 

The vibrant colours and exquisite craftsmanship can bring to life any lifeless room. 

 

Unless your yoga blanket is mass-produced, each falsa is custom-made—indeed a work of art.

 

Each strand boasts the careful artistry of the weaver and the technical precision it took.

 

The array of sizes and cultures showcases the rich traditions of Mexico, keeping the heritage alive. 

 

Is the falsa at par with cotton and wool blankets?

Yes, cotton makes up about ⅓ of the falsa, although it is indeed warmer than cotton.

 

The fibres in falsa are blended, the rest being acrylic and polyester, so this is the outcome. 

 

Compared to pure fibres, blended ones tend to last longer, too.

 

Washing is not a tricky business anymore because you can wash it regularly. To estimate, they roughly cost the same. 

What size of falsa should I get?

The blanket must contain you in Savasana, as a rule. Generally, the taller you are, the bigger the blanket you should get.

 

Keep in mind that a larger blanket can offer more creativity in yoga poses.  

 

Conclusion

What is a falsa blanket in the yoga world? It has become staple equipment, that is.

 

If yoga is your thing, you need to check this blanket out.

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