How to Block Your Knitting and Crochet Projects?

Steam blocking is when you use steam to block your work. You can use a steamer or an iron with steam functionality.

Supplies

1. Blocking Board – You will need a surface where you can pin down your project such as a mattress, foam board, yoga mat etc. or purchase a blocking board, which you can find at most crafting stores.
2. Sewing pins – You can purchase these from any crafting store used to pin down the project.
3. A bucket or use the bath tub
4. A towel
5. Steaming cloth such as a bed sheet
6. A steamer of an iron with steaming functionality.

Process

1. Set your iron to steaming, the lowest temperature possible.
2. Immerse your item fully in lukewarm water and wait for 15 minutes. You can add a detergent for cleaning but it is not necessary.
3. Remove your item from the water, do not wring or squeeze, roll it onto the towel to soak out as much of the excessive water as you can.
4. Lay the project on the blocking surface and pin down to the desired final shape.
5. Lay a steaming fabric on top of your item and lightly press the iron on top of the fabric to steam or use the steamer. Do not press down or for too long as it may damage your fabric.
6. For lighter fabrics, remove the steaming cloth and allow to dry before removing pins. For heavier fabric, leave the steaming cloth on top and allow drying before removing pins.