Unlock the Secret: How to Block Knits Like a Pro!

As the weather gets colder and the air becomes crisp, there’s no better time to cozy up in your favorite knitted sweater or scarf. However, if you’ve ever experienced the frustration of a knit garment stretching out or losing its shape after just one wear, then you know the importance of knowing how to properly care for and protect your knits. That’s where learning how to block knits comes in – a crucial technique that can restore your beloved knitted pieces to their former glory. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of blocking knits, so you can keep your wardrobe looking fresh and fashionable all season long.

Understanding the Importance of Blocking Knits

Blocking is an essential process in knitting, especially for items made from natural fibers such as wool, cotton, or linen. It involves shaping and smoothing out your knitted piece to achieve a professional and polished finish. Blocking also allows the yarn to relax and settle into its final shape, giving your project a more defined and uniform look.

There are several reasons why blocking is crucial for knitting projects. First and foremost, it helps to correct any minor mistakes or uneven tension in your stitches. When you knit, some stitches may appear looser or tighter than others, resulting in an inconsistent fabric. By blocking, you can even out these discrepancies and achieve a more balanced appearance.

Moreover, blocking can also improve the drape of your knitted piece. Natural fibers have a natural tendency to curl or roll at the edges due to their structure. By blocking, you can stretch out the fabric and flatten any unwanted curls, giving your project a more fluid and elegant look.

Another benefit of blocking is that it can help set complex stitch patterns and lacework. Once you have finished your project, the stitches may appear squished or lost within the fabric. However, by blocking, these intricate details can be highlighted and stand out better.

Lastly, blocking also helps to remove any dirt or odors that may have accumulated while working on your project. This is especially useful for projects made from hand-dyed yarns that may release some excess dye during washing.

Types of Knits That Need Blocking

While all knit items can benefit from blocking to some extent, there are certain types of knits that require it more than others.

Firstly, garments such as sweaters, cardigans, or shawls made from natural fibers need to be blocked before wearing. These items are often created using lacework or complex stitch patterns that require shaping and setting to achieve their final look.

Furthermore, blocking is also essential for oversized knits, such as blankets or scarves. These items can easily become distorted and lose their shape due to their weight. Blocking helps to distribute the weight evenly throughout the fabric, ensuring that it retains its intended shape.

Another type of knit that should be blocked is items made from stiff or coarser yarns. These yarns tend to hold their shape better, so blocking can help soften the fabric and make it more pliable.

Lastly, blocking is crucial for projects made using multiple pieces, such as sweaters with separate front and back panels. Blocking allows you to ensure that all pieces are of the same size and shape before sewing them together, resulting in a professionally finished garment.

Steps for Blocking Knits

There are several methods for blocking knits, but here is a general step-by-step process that can be used for most projects:

1. Start by filling a basin with cool water and a small amount of gentle detergent suitable for natural fibers.

2. Immerse your knitted piece in the water completely and let it soak for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the fibers to absorb moisture and relax.

3. While your project is soaking, prepare a flat surface to block on. This can be a clean towel or blocking mats specifically designed for knitting projects.

4. After soaking, remove your project from the water and gently squeeze out any excess moisture without wringing or twisting the fabric.

5. Lay out your project on the prepared flat surface and use rust-proof pins or blocking wires to hold it in place while it dries. Start by pinning out the edges of your project first and then move towards the center, making sure that the fabric is flat and smooth.

6. If necessary, you can also use measuring tape or a T-pin to ensure that all sections are blocked evenly and to the desired dimensions.

7. Let your project dry completely before unpinning it. This may take a few hours to a full day, depending on the size and yarn type used.

Additional Tips for Blocking Knits

– For projects made with delicate or fragile yarns, consider using steam blocking instead of wet blocking to prevent damage or stretching.
– To speed up the drying process, you can use a fan or hairdryer at a low setting. Just make sure to keep it at a safe distance from the project to avoid overheating or damaging the fibers.
– If you are unsure about how much the fabric will stretch while blocking, it is best to block a small test swatch first to gauge the results before proceeding with the rest of your project.
– For items that require crucial stitch details and shaping, such as lacework or cables, consider using blocking combs along with pins for more precise and secure placement.
– To maintain its shape after blocking, store your knitted item folded instead of hanging it.
– Always remember to check the care instructions for your yarn before blocking as some fibers may require special treatment.
– Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different blocking methods or techniques until you find what works

Benefits of Learning How to Block Knits

Learning how to block knits can bring a lot of benefits to your knitting practice. It allows you to create professional-looking and well-finished projects, as well as improve the overall quality and appearance of your knitted items. It might seem like an extra step in the knitting process, but blocking is essential for achieving the desired drape, shape, and size of your knits. Here are some specific benefits of learning how to block knits.

1. Achieve Even Tension

No matter how careful you are when knitting, there will always be variations in tension among different stitches and rows. This uneven tension can result in a distorted or lumpy appearance of your finished piece. However, by blocking your knits, you can even out these tensions and create a smooth and consistent fabric. This is especially crucial for projects that involve colorwork or different stitch patterns.

2. Correct Mistakes

There’s nothing more frustrating than finding a mistake in your completed project that you didn’t notice while knitting. Fortunately, by blocking your knits, you may be able to correct some mistakes without having to completely undo your work. For example, if there’s an uneven row or a stitch that appears too large, you can gently stretch or manipulate the fabric while it’s damp to fix these issues.

3. Enhance Lace Patterns

If you enjoy knitting lace patterns, blocking is an essential step for bringing out their full beauty. Even the simplest lace patterns can look stunning after being blocked because it helps open up small holes and creates definition between stitches. Blocking also enhances the overall design of lace patterns by making them more visible and defined.

4. Shape Your Project

Sometimes knitted pieces may appear misshapen or wonky straight off the needles. However, by blocking your knits, you can mold and shape them into the desired size and dimension. Whether it’s a sweater, scarf, or hat, blocking allows you to stretch or shrink your project to the exact size required. This is particularly useful if you’re using a yarn with a different gauge than recommended in the pattern.

5. Improve Drape and Texture

Blocking can significantly improve the drape and texture of your knitted items, making them look more polished and finished. It helps loosen up stitches and allow for subtle shifts in fabric that create a floaty, lightweight feel. This is particularly important for garments like shawls or scarves that are meant to drape over the body.

Methods of Blocking Knits

There are several methods of blocking knits, and choosing the right one depends on the type of yarn used, the complexity of your project, and personal preference. Here are three commonly used methods of blocking.

1. Wet Blocking

Wet blocking is perhaps the most common method used by knitters worldwide. It involves soaking your knit piece in lukewarm water for about 20-30 minutes before removing it from the water and gently squeezing out excess moisture. Then, lay the knit piece out on a flat surface such as a towel or blocking mat using pins to stretch it out to its desired shape and size.

This method is suitable for almost all types of yarn but works best on natural fibers such as wool or cotton. Wet blocking can also be combined with steam blocking (steam ironing while stretching) for better results.

2. Steam Blocking

Steam blocking is ideal for projects made with delicate fibers like silk or acrylic that cannot be soaked in water without damage. It involves holding a steam iron over the knit piece without touching it, letting the steam penetrate the fibers and the heat reshape the fabric. However, make sure to follow specific instructions for your yarn type as some synthetic fibers may shrink or melt with heat.

3. Spray Blocking

Spray blocking is a more gentle method of blocking that involves misting your knit piece with lukewarm water and then pinning it out on a flat surface to dry. It is perfect for delicate projects like lace shawls or projects with a lot of texture. You may need to use blocking wires or rust-proof pins to help keep the edges straight while drying.

Tips for Successful Blocking

Here are some additional tips that will help you achieve great results when blocking your knits:

1. Always Follow Instructions

Every type of yarn has its own blocking requirements, so it’s crucial to follow the instructions specified on the yarn label or in your knitting pattern.

2. Take Your Time

Blocking is a slow process that requires patience and attention to detail. Rushing through it can result in mistakes and unsatisfactory results.

3. Test First

If you’re unsure about how a particular yarn will react to blocking,

1. How do I determine the right tension for blocking knit pieces?
To determine the right tension for blocking knit pieces, you can check the label of your knitting yarn or swatch samples. You can also consult knitting resources or ask for recommendations from experienced knitters.

2. What types of knitted items should be blocked?
Typically, garments and accessories that are made of natural fibers such as wool, cotton, and silk should be blocked to achieve a more even and professional finish. However, some acrylic and blended yarns can also benefit from blocking.

3. What materials do I need for blocking knits?
The basic materials you will need for blocking knits are: clean towels or a foam pad, rustproof pins, spray bottle filled with water, and a measuring tape or ruler.

4. How long should I leave my knitted piece to dry after blocking?
It is recommended to leave your knitted piece to dry completely for at least 24 hours before removing it from the blocking mat. This ensures that the fibers have fully absorbed the water and have set into place.

5. Can I use a steamer instead of wet-blocking my knit pieces?
Yes, steaming is an alternative method for achieving similar results as wet-blocking. However, it is crucial to follow specific instructions per garment or accessory to avoid damaging delicate fibers.

6. Is it necessary to block each section of a multi-colored or patterned knit?
Yes, it is essential to block each section of a multi-colored or patterned knit to ensure that all parts are aligned neatly and evenly. This also helps in showcasing the design accurately after finishing your project.

In conclusion, learning how to block knits is an essential skill for any knitter looking to achieve professional and polished results in their projects. By understanding the different blocking techniques, such as wet blocking or steam blocking, one can effectively shape and smooth out their knitted fabric to achieve the desired measurements and appearance.

Additionally, it is important to consider the type of fiber used in the knitting project as well as how to properly care for the blocked item afterwards. Taking the time to block knits not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also improves their durability and longevity.

Furthermore, proper blocking can also fix any uneven stitches or inconsistencies in tension, resulting in a more cohesive and visually appealing finished product. This technique also allows for better gauge accuracy, ensuring that subsequent pieces will match in size and shape.

It is recommended to experiment with different blocking methods and find what works best for each individual project. By regularly incorporating blocking into one’s knitting routine, it becomes a simple yet impactful step in achieving professional-looking results.

In conclusion, mastering the skill of blocking knits takes practice and patience but ultimately plays a crucial role in producing high-quality hand-knit items. By following the techniques and tips discussed above, one can confidently take on various knitting projects with the assurance that they have the tools necessary

Author Profile

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.