When you finish a knitting project, it’s always thrilling to bind off that last stitch, slip your project off the needles, and admire the work you’ve done. But one question that often pops up is, “Should I block my knits?” The short answer is yes, you should. Blocking can make a world of difference to the look, fit, and drape of your finished piece. Let me share why blocking is important, and give you a step-by-step guide on how to block a knitting project, so you can bring your handknits to their full potential.

Why Blocking Matters

Blocking might seem like an extra step, but it truly transforms the end result. Blocking is the process of wetting or steaming your knitting and setting it in the shape you want, allowing the fibers to relax and settle. This process smooths out uneven stitches, helps with sizing, and can open up lacework or textured patterns beautifully.

When you’re knitting with natural fibers, blocking helps the yarn relax into its final shape. If you’ve just spent hours knitting, taking this extra step is a way to respect your hard work and ensure your project looks its best. Blocking is especially essential for lace and other intricate patterns, as it opens up the stitches and gives the fabric more airiness. For beginners or those wondering if blocking is worth it, learning how to block a knitting project can help you see the dramatic difference it makes.

Different Types of Blocking

Before I dive into the how-to of blocking, let’s go over the three main types of blocking:

1. Wet Blocking: Soaking the entire piece in water and then laying it flat to dry. This is ideal for most fibers, especially natural ones.
2. Steam Blocking: Using a steamer or an iron to steam the project lightly while pinning it out. This method is quick and suitable for acrylics or blends.
3. Spray Blocking: Spraying the project with water and laying it out. This is a gentle option for delicate fibers.

Each method has its advantages, so the best option depends on your project, the type of yarn, and the desired result. In this guide on how to block a knitting project, I’ll focus mainly on wet blocking, as it’s the most common and works for most types of yarn.

How to Block a Knitting Project: Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re ready to try blocking, here’s a straightforward guide on how to block a knitting project from start to finish. I’ll walk you through the steps for wet blocking, which is ideal for most handknits.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, you’ll need a few items to make the blocking process easier:

• Basin or sink: For soaking your project.
• Blocking mats: A flat surface where you can lay your project. Blocking mats are usually foam pads that you can pin into, but a thick towel works in a pinch. I get my mats here.
• Towels: To remove excess water.
• Blocking pins or T-pins: These will hold your project in place while it dries. I love to use blocking combs. I have 2 off brand boxes (available here) They are a cheaper but do the same job as the knitters pride for almost half the price! Also, KnitPicks has a new set of blocking pins that interconnect so you can make longer or smaller combs based on your project which you can purchase here.
• Measuring tape: To check your dimensions.
• Blocking wires (optional): Useful for straight edges, especially for lace. You can purchase them here.

Having these items handy will make it much easier as you learn how to block a knitting project. You’ll especially appreciate the pins and mats if you’re blocking lace or anything with a lot of shaping.

Step 2: Soak Your Project

Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water, just enough to submerge your project. Gently place your project in the water and let it soak for 15-30 minutes. This soaking time allows the fibers to fully absorb water, which helps them relax and take on a new shape.

If you’re using a delicate yarn like wool or alpaca, you can add a little wool wash or gentle soap to the water. Don’t agitate the yarn, as this can cause felting, especially with natural fibers. Instead, let it rest undisturbed. This soaking step is crucial in how to block a knitting project effectively, as it ensures the yarn absorbs water evenly.

Step 3: Remove Excess Water

After soaking, gently lift the project out of the water, supporting it fully to avoid stretching. Lay it flat on a towel, then roll the towel with the knitting inside. Press gently on the towel roll to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting your project, as this can distort its shape.

This step might seem minor, but it’s key in how to block a knitting project without damaging it. You want the project to be damp but not soaking, as too much water can make blocking difficult.

Step 4: Lay Out and Shape Your Project

Now comes the fun part: shaping your project. Place your damp knitting on a blocking mat or flat, pin-friendly surface. Using your pins, shape the knitting to your desired measurements, stretching or smoothing the fabric as needed. For lace projects or items with specific dimensions, use your measuring tape to get the sizing right.

If you’re blocking something with straight edges, like a scarf or blanket, blocking wires can help you get a crisp edge. For hats, mittens, and other 3D items, consider using a form or model to help it keep its shape. Learning how to block a knitting project really opens up design possibilities as you begin to shape and adjust your work.

Step 5: Let it Dry Completely

Once you’ve pinned and shaped your project, allow it to dry completely. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the size and thickness of the project and the humidity in the room. Resist the temptation to move or unpin your knitting before it’s fully dry; patience is key here.

For anyone learning how to block a knitting project, this waiting period is one of the most challenging parts, but the results are worth it. Once dry, you can remove the pins and admire your perfectly shaped piece.

How to Block Different Fibers

Understanding how to block a knitting project becomes even more rewarding when you tailor the method to the fiber you’re using. Here are some tips on blocking specific types of fibers:

• Wool: Wool responds beautifully to wet blocking and will hold its shape well.
• Acrylic: Acrylic doesn’t have the memory of natural fibers, so wet blocking isn’t always effective. Instead, steam blocking with a light hand often works best.
• Cotton and Linen: These plant-based fibers benefit from wet blocking but may take longer to dry. They have less stretch, so shaping might be minimal.
• Silk: Silk is delicate, so handle it with care. A gentle soak or spray block can be enough.

Taking the time to block based on fiber type makes a difference in how your final piece looks and wears over time. Each fiber behaves differently, so knowing how to block a knitting project in a way that suits the material can enhance the outcome.

When Blocking Isn’t Necessary

There are a few situations where blocking may not be essential. If you’re working with a synthetic fiber that won’t change much with water, or if you’re knitting something that doesn’t need much shaping (like some simple accessories), blocking may not be necessary. However, I’d still recommend trying it; even a quick spray block can help even out your stitches.

If you’re knitting something very stretchy or very delicate, like a small accessory or a piece in super-bulky yarn, you might not need to block. But even then, it’s worth learning how to block a knitting project in case you find yourself working with other fibers or designs down the road.

Tips for Successful Blocking

Blocking is a straightforward process, but here are some extra tips for how to block a knitting project like a pro:

• Use rust-proof pins: Ordinary pins can rust and stain your knitting, so choose T-pins or blocking pins specifically made for this purpose. I love to use blocking combs. I have 2 off brand boxes (available here) They are a cheaper but do the same job as the knitters pride for almost half the price! Also, KnitPicks has a new set of blocking pins that interconnect so you can make longer or smaller combs based on your project which you can purchase here.
• Don’t over-stretch: Stretch your project just enough to shape it without distorting stitches.
• Practice with swatches: If you’re new to blocking or trying a new fiber, practice on a swatch first to see how it reacts.
• Take measurements: Measure your piece before and during blocking to ensure it reaches the correct dimensions.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to block a knitting project is a simple but transformative skill. From smoothing out stitches to improving the drape and fit of your pieces, blocking helps bring your handknits to life. Now that you know how to block a knitting project, I encourage you to give it a try on your next finished piece and see the difference it makes. You’ve put time and effort into knitting; blocking is the final step to making your project truly shine.

So, should you block your knits? Yes! It’s one of those finishing touches that takes a project from good to great, making all your hard work truly shine.

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