Ever try to excuse bad art with your own sad story? My old portfolio proves trauma doesn't make bad design good.

Did it smell kinda swampy too?

Last spring, my cousin's farm used straw bales for soil erosion, but it was a messy fix.

The carpet on my spiral stairs in the old apartment went down perfectly five years ago. It still looks exactly the same today with no wrinkles or shifts. I used a heavy duty pad and a pro installer who knew how to handle curves. That made all the difference for long term fit. Some carpets might move if they are not put in right or with cheap materials. But a good job done right from the start should hold up fine.

Nina365 has the right idea with cold water slowing things down. I also add a splash of white vinegar or a bit of Elmer's glue to the mix for more open time. Try both tricks together on your next batch.