Mastering the Art of Hand Knitting: A Step-by-Step Guide to Finishing Your Perfect Blanket

AvatarByJill Nammar Knitting

There is nothing quite like the satisfaction of completing a hand knitted blanket. The countless hours spent creating and perfecting each stitch, the warmth and comfort it provides, and the sense of pride in a finished piece are all uniquely special. However, reaching the final stages of a project can often feel daunting, especially for beginner knitters. Fear not, for we have compiled a guide on how to finish a hand knitted blanket with ease and confidence. Whether you are looking to complete your first ever knitting project or looking to enhance your skills, this article will provide you with valuable tips and techniques to achieve a flawless finished product. So grab your needles and let’s dive into the world of finishing handmade blankets!

Materials Needed for Finishing a Hand Knitted Blanket

To properly finish a hand knitted blanket, you will need a few essential materials. These include:

– A tapestry needle: This type of needle has a large eye and a blunt tip, making it ideal for sewing in yarn ends and seaming sections of the blanket.
– Yarn in the same weight and color as your blanket: Using the same yarn as your blanket ensures that your finishing stitches blend seamlessly.
– Crochet hook: A crochet hook is useful for picking up dropped stitches and creating neat edges.
– Scissors: You will need sharp scissors to trim excess yarn and cut lengths of yarn for stitching.
– Blocking pins or T-pins: Blocking pins are used to stretch the finished blanket into shape while drying. T-pins can also be used in place of blocking pins.
– Spray bottle with water: Spraying the wet blanket with water after blocking helps set the shape.

Method for Blocking a Hand Knitted Blanket

Blocking is an essential step in finishing a hand knitted blanket. It involves gently stretching and shaping the knitted fabric to ensure that it lays flat and even. Here is a step-by-step method for blocking your hand knitted blanket:

1. Fill a clean basin or tub with lukewarm water, adding in some mild soap if needed.

2. Immerse your completed knitted blanket into the water, gently squeezing out any air bubbles.

3. Let the blanket soak for 15 to 20 minutes.

4. Carefully lift the wet blanket out of the basin, taking care not to wring or squeeze it.

5. Lay out a large towel on a flat surface, such as a bed or floor.

6. Place your wet blanket on top of the towel and gently roll both together to absorb excess water.

7. Unroll the towel and place the blanket on a clean, flat surface.

8. Gently stretch and shape the blanket to your desired measurements, using blocking pins or T-pins to hold it in place.

9. Allow the wet blanket to dry completely before removing the pins. This can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours, depending on the yarn used and humidity levels.

How to Seam Sections of Your Hand Knitted Blanket

Seaming is the process of joining separate sections of your hand knitted blanket together. Here’s how to do it:

1. Lay out your blocked knitted sections side by side, making sure they are oriented in the correct direction.

2. Thread your tapestry needle with yarn, then tie a small knot at one end.

3. Insert your needle through both layers of fabric at one corner, pulling through until the knot catches on the back of the fabric.

4. Insert your needle into each stitch along one edge of the blanket section, going under both loops of each stitch.

5. Once you reach the end, insert your needle into both layers at the corner and make a small loop with your yarn to secure it.

6. Repeat this process for each seam until all sections are joined together.

7.?Weave in any excess yarn ends using your tapestry needle and trim off any excess threads with scissors.

Crocheting a Border for Your Hand Knitted Blanket

A border is not only decorative but also adds structure and stability to your hand knitted blanket. Here’s how you can crochet a simple border:

1. Start by joining yarn in any corner of your finished blanket using a slip stitch.

2. Single crochet around all edges of your blanket until you reach back at where you started.

3. Cut yarn leaving an 8-inch tail and pull it through last stitch securing it with a knot.

4. Weave in ends for a clean finish.

5. For a more decorative border, you can use different crochet stitches such as the double crochet or shell stitch.

Finishing Techniques for Different Types of Blankets

The finishing technique you use for your hand knitted blanket will depend on the type of blanket you have created. Here are some tips for different types of blankets:

– For a basic garter stitch blanket: You can simply leave the edges as they are or add a few rows of single crochet around all edges to create a more defined border.

– For a stockinette stitch blanket: This stitch pattern naturally curls at the edges, so you will need to add a firm border using either crochet or single stitches to prevent this from happening.

– For an afghan blanket with multiple panels: Use mattress stitch, which involves sewing two pieces together using small running stitches on the wrong side of the fabric. This creates an invisible seam that lies flat and is great for joining panels together.

– For a lace patterned blanket: Blocking after seaming is essential to open up the lace and show off the intricate patterns. Be careful not to stretch too much as this can distort the lace design.

Materials Needed for Finishing a Hand Knitted Blanket

To successfully finish a hand knitted blanket, you will need a few key materials. These include:

– Yarn needle
– Scissors
– Tape measure
– Stitch markers
– Blocking mat
– Rust-proof pins
– Spray bottle

Most of these items can be found at your local craft store or online. It is important to invest in high quality materials, as finishing a hand knitted blanket requires precision and attention to detail. Now that you have gathered your materials, let’s move on to the steps for finishing a hand knitted blanket.

Step by Step Guide: How to Finish a Hand Knitted Blanket

Step 1: Block Your Blanket

The first step in finishing your hand knitted blanket is to block it. Blocking is the process of shaping and sizing your knitting project for a more professional and polished look. To block your blanket, you will need to soak it in water, gently squeeze out excess water, and lay it flat on a blocking mat. Use rust-proof pins to secure the edges of your blanket and leave it to dry completely.

Step 2: Weave In Any Loose Ends

Once your blanket is dry, it is time to weave in any loose ends. You will need a yarn needle for this step. Carefully weave in each end along the back of your stitches using a zigzag motion. This will help prevent any loose ends from unraveling over time.

Step 3: Secure Stitch Markers

If you used stitch markers while knitting your blanket, now is the time to remove them and secure them in place with some extra yarn. This will help prevent the markers from getting lost or tangled in the future.

Step 4: Seam Up Any Remaining Openings

If your blanket has any remaining openings, such as armholes or buttonholes, you will need to seam them up. This can be done using a simple whipstitch or mattress stitch to create a neat and seamless finish.

Step 5: Add Any Finishing Touches

If desired, you can add some finishing touches to your hand knitted blanket. This could include adding a border or edging, creating fringe, or adding buttons or other embellishments.

Tips for a Professional Finish

– Use the same yarn type and color for any seaming or finishing touches to maintain consistency
– Take your time and check your work frequently as you go along to ensure a neat and polished finish
– Don’t be afraid to block your blanket multiple times until you achieve the desired size and shape
– Experiment with different finishing techniques to find one that suits your knitting style

Maintenance Tips for Your Finished Hand Knitted Blanket

To keep your hand knitted blanket looking as good as new, follow these maintenance tips:

– Wash using gentle detergent and cold water
– Lay flat to dry
– Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
– Avoid hanging or stretching out your blanket
– If needed, use a lint roller to remove any loose fibers

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your hand knitted blanket will last for many years to come.

Finishing a hand knitted blanket may seem like a daunting task, but with the right materials and techniques, it can be done with ease. Remember to take your time and check your work frequently for a professional and polished finish. With proper maintenance, your hand knitted blanket will provide warmth and comfort for years to come. So go ahead and show off your beautiful, finished hand knitted blanket with pride!

Q: What materials do I need to finish a hand knitted blanket?
A: To finish a hand knitted blanket, you will need yarn, knitting needles, scissors, and a tapestry needle.

Q: How do I weave in ends on a hand knitted blanket?
A: To weave in ends on a hand knitted blanket, use a tapestry needle to thread the tail of the yarn through the stitches on the back of the fabric. Weave in an “S” pattern to secure the end and then trim off any excess.

Q: Can I add fringe to my hand knitted blanket?
A: Yes, you can add fringe to your hand knitted blanket by cutting pieces of yarn double the desired length and using a crochet hook or your knitting needles to attach them along the edge of your blanket.

Q: How do I block my hand knitted blanket?
A: To block your hand knitted blanket, wet it with cold water and lay it flat on towels. Use pins or weights to stretch and shape the fabric into its final size and then allow it to dry completely before removing.

Q: What is the best way to bind off my hand knitted blanket?
A: The best way to bind off your hand knitted blanket is by using a stretchy bind off method such as the Russian bind off. This will prevent an overly tight edge and ensure that your finished piece has some flexibility.

Q: Can I add decorative borders or edging to my hand knitted
blanket?
A: Yes, you can add decorative borders or edging to your hand knitted blanket by picking up stitches along the edge and knitting or crocheting a desired motif or pattern. You can also use different colors or textures of yarn for added visual interest.

In conclusion, finishing a hand knitted blanket can seem like a daunting task, but with the right techniques and patience, it can be a satisfying and enjoyable experience. As discussed, there are several methods for adding borders and securing loose ends, each with their own unique benefits. It is important to choose a method that best suits your knitting style and preference.

Additionally, paying attention to the materials used for finishing and properly blocking your blanket can ensure its longevity and maintain its shape. Taking care to properly weave in all loose ends will also prevent any unraveling or damage to your beautiful hand knitted creation.

Moreover, this process of finishing a hand knitted blanket is not only about the physical aspects but also the emotional investment of time and effort put into creating something by hand. It teaches patience, resilience, and the value of creating something meaningful.

In today’s fast-paced society, where everything is readily available, taking up knitting as a hobby can be therapeutic and rewarding. It allows one to slow down, be mindful of the present moment, and create something unique and personal.

Overall, finishing a hand knitted blanket requires skill, attention to detail, and creativity. But more importantly, it is an opportunity to express oneself through art while also providing warmth and comfort for oneself or others

Author Profile

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.