Blocking your finished project makes a huge difference in how it looks.
Think of it as a wrinkled shirt right out of the dryer or the bottom of a laundry basket, compared to one that’s been freshly ironed. I know, who irons anymore, but you get the idea. 😉
The goal of blocking is to create a piece that shows off the stitches without looking “scrunched”.
If you have never blocked a finished project before, it’s easy and takes very little effort or time. Blocking IS WORTH the effort to give it a polished look.
Let’s get on with it…
How to Block your Finished Project
1. First began by weaving in all your ends on the wrong side of your project, if you haven’t done so already.
2. Soak the piece in cold water for 15 minutes in the kitchen sink or a large bowl/pot. I added a pump of SOAK to make it nice and soft.
Using your hand, gently push the project under the water, so all edges are submerged. This is my Little Gem Baby Blanket Pattern being showcased.
3. After 15 minutes, Allow the water to drainout by pulling the plug in the sink. Let it sit for a few minutes while the water drains off. Gently press the water out with your hand. DO NOT WRING OR TWIST.
4. Transfer your project to a clean towel to soak up any additional water. I laid the towel on my counter, then my project on that. Gently roll and press the water out into the towel.
5. Set up your blocking mats on any surface large enough to accommodate the size.
There are many options for blocking mats. I purchased mine on Amazon that included nine – 12″ squares. That’s the perfect size for a baby blanket when they are all laid out. It came with the blocking T-pins.
If you don’t have blocking mats, it’s DEFINITELY possible to have good results without them. Because the project is so wet, it does keep its shape when laid out on a towel without pins. You want your surface to be able to absorb the water and allow your project to dry sufficiently.
6. Carefully unfold your wet project and spread it out on the blocking mats.
7. Now you’ll need to adjust the project so that the stitches lay flat and are straight. I don’t bother using a measuring tool. You can eyeball it until you feel it’s straight. Pin in place every so many inches, or until you feel it will lay straight when it’s dry.
Hint: Some say that acrylic does not block. YES, IT DOES!
8. Now that it’s dry you can remove the pins.Enjoy your finished project. It’s now perfectly blocked and ready for gifting or using for yourself.
You can find me on Instagram @knitondesigns. I’m sharing finished patterns, what I’m working on, and more.
Until next time,
~Deb
Knit On Designs 