Mastering the Art of Finishing: A Guide on How To Finish A Knit Blanket

As the weather cools down and snuggling up under a cozy blanket becomes a favorite pastime, many crafters turn to their trusty knitting needles to create a warm and inviting blanket. But for some, the thought of successfully finishing a knit blanket can be daunting. Fear not, as we have the tips and tricks you need to confidently finish your knit blanket project with ease. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of completing your knit blanket, from binding off to blocking, so you can proudly wrap yourself in your beautiful handmade creation. So grab your needles and let’s get started on mastering the art of finishing a knit blanket.

When it comes to completing a knit blanket, there are a few essential steps that you need to follow in order to achieve a beautiful and professional finish. From properly binding off your stitches to weaving in the loose ends, every aspect of finishing a knit blanket plays a crucial role in its final appearance. So, if you’re looking for a comprehensive guide on how to finish a knit blanket, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll go through each step in detail and provide you with tips and tricks to ensure that your finished knit blanket is not only functional but also visually pleasing.

Blocking

The first step towards finishing your knit blanket is blocking. Blocking simply means shaping your knitted fabric into its final form by gently washing it or steaming it with an iron. This step is crucial as it allows the fibers of the yarn to relax and settle into their proper place, resulting in a smoother and more even finish.

To block your knit blanket, start by filling a large basin or tub with lukewarm water and adding a small amount of gentle detergent. Gently submerge your knit blanket into the water and allow it to soak for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully lift the blanket out of the water without wringing or twisting it.

Next, lay your wet blanket on top of towels on a flat surface like a bed or table. Use more towels on top of the blanket to gently press out excess water. Now, depending on the type of yarn you’ve used, either leave your blanket to air dry or use an iron set at low heat (without steam) to shape it into its desired dimensions.

Blocking Tips

– Always check the care instructions for your specific yarn before blocking.
– To speed up air drying process, use fans or open windows.
– When using an iron, make sure it is set at the correct heat for your yarn type.
– Be careful not to stretch or pull your blanket too much while it’s wet as this can cause distortion in the final shape.

Binding Off

Once your knit blanket is fully blocked and dry, it’s time to bind off the last row of stitches. This is an essential step as it secures your stitches and prevents them from unraveling. There are various methods of binding off, but we’ll go through the most common one, which is called the basic bind off.

To begin, knit two stitches as usual. Then, using your left needle, lift the first stitch up and over the second stitch and let it drop off the right needle. One stitch will remain on your right needle. Next, knit one more stitch, lift up the previous stitch and drop it over the new knit stitch. Repeat this process until you only have one stitch remaining on your right needle. Cut the yarn with a tail of about 6 inches and pull it through the last loop to secure it.

Finishing

After binding off, you may have a few loose ends of yarn hanging from your blanket. These ends need to be woven in for a neat finish. To do this, thread each end onto a tapestry needle and weave them back into the knitted fabric using a back-and-forth motion. It’s important to weave in at least 6 inches of yarn to ensure that it doesn’t come undone.

If you’re using multiple colors for your blanket, you’ll also need to join them together at some point. To join yarns together without knots or bulky seams, try using the Russian Join method. This involves carefully weaving one strand of yarn into another until they are securely joined together.

In conclusion, finishing a knit blanket requires attention to detail and a few essential steps. From blocking and binding off to weaving in loose ends, each step is crucial in achieving a polished and professional look for your blanket. So, next time you’re working on a knitted project, remember these tips to ensure that your finished product is nothing short of perfection.

Knitting a blanket can be a fun and rewarding experience, but knowing how to finish it can be a daunting task. However, with the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can easily turn your unfinished knitted blanket into a cozy masterpiece. In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to finish a knit blanket, from binding off your stitches to weaving in ends and blocking your project. So grab your knitting needles and let’s get started!

Understanding Binding Off

Before you start finishing your knit blanket, it’s important to understand the concept of binding off. Binding off is the process of creating a secure edge by working off the live stitches on your needle. This creates a finished look to your project and prevents it from unraveling.

To bind off, simply work the first two stitches as usual, then slip the first stitch over the second stitch and drop it off the needle. Continue this process until you have bound off all stitches except for one. To secure that last stitch, cut your yarn leaving at least a 4-inch tail and pull it through the last loop. Congratulations, you have successfully bound off your knit blanket!

Weaving in Ends

One of the most important steps in finishing any knitting project is weaving in ends. Weaving in ends means tucking away all those loose yarn tails left from changing colors or joining new yarn balls.

To weave in ends, first thread them onto a tapestry needle. Then insert the needle back into your work following along the path of the previous yarn strand for about an inch or two. Pull it through without pulling too tightly, then trim any excess yarn left sticking out from both sides. Repeat this process with all other ends until they are securely woven into your project.

Blocking Your Blanket

Blocking is an essential part of the finishing process for any knit project. It is the process of steam or wet working your knitted item into its desired shape and size. Blocking can help even out any uneven stitches, open up lace patterns, and make the blanket softer and more drapey.

To block your knit blanket, you will need blocking mats or towels, pins, and a spray bottle filled with water. If you are using acrylic yarn, skip the water and use steam from your iron instead.

First, lay your blanket on top of the blocking mats or towels. Then gently stretch it to shape it into a rectangle or square, whichever shape you desire. Use pins to secure it in place by placing them along the edges of your blanket. If using water, lightly spray your blanket with water until damp. If using steam, hold the iron above the blanket without touching it until it is slightly damp.

Leave your blanket to dry completely before unpinning it and removing it from the blocking mats. You’ll notice that your knitted project has transformed into a beautifully shaped and softened piece.

Adding a Border

To give a finishing touch to your knit blanket, consider adding a border. A border can add structure and character to your project while also hiding any minor imperfections in your stitches.

To add a border, pick up stitches along the edges of your blanket using a crochet hook or knitting needles depending on what type of border you want to create. Then work in rows or rounds until you reach the desired width of your border.

You can also choose to add decorative elements such as cables or eyelets within your border for added interest. Once you have completed all sides, bind off as usual and weave in ends.

Finishing a knit blanket may seem like an overwhelming task at first but by following these steps, you can easily achieve a polished and professional looking result. Understanding binding off, weaving in ends, blocking, and adding a border are all essential techniques that will help elevate your knit blanket to the next level. So don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it. With a little bit of effort and creativity, you’ll have a beautiful finished knit blanket to wrap yourself or gift to a loved one. Happy knitting!

Q: What are the necessary tools for finishing a knit blanket?
A: The essential tools for finishing a knit blanket include a yarn needle, scissors, and a measuring tape.

Q: How do I weave in loose yarn ends on my finished knit blanket?
A: To weave in loose yarn ends, use the yarn needle to thread the end of the yarn through several stitches on the back of your work. Cut off any excess length and gently tug to hide the end.

Q: Can I add fringes to my knitted blanket?
A: Yes, you can add fringes to your knit blanket by cutting equal-length strands of yarn and attaching them to the edges with a basic knot. Trim them evenly for a clean finish.

Q: What is blocking and why is it important for finishing a knit blanket?
A: Blocking is the process of shaping and smoothing out knitted fabric. It helps to even out stitches, adjust size, and create a more polished look for your finished blanket.

Q: How do I block my knit blanket?
A: To block your knit blanket, dampen it with water or a spray bottle then lay it flat on a towel. Use pins or blocking wires to stretch it out to the desired size and shape. Allow it to dry completely before removing the pins or wires.

Q: Can I add decorative edging to my knit blanket?
A: Yes, you can add decorative edging to your finished knit blanket by picking up stitches along the edge and working in your desired pattern. Some popular options include ribbing, lace, or seed stitch edging.

In conclusion, finishing a knit blanket requires careful and precise techniques to achieve a professional and polished final product. It involves blocking to even out the stitches, weaving in ends for a clean and seamless appearance, and choosing the perfect border or edging to complete the look. Choosing quality materials and investing time in proper finishing techniques will result in a durable and long-lasting blanket that can be cherished for years to come.

It is important to keep in mind the desired outcome and purpose of the blanket while finishing it, whether it is for personal use or as a gift. Taking breaks when needed and being patient throughout the process will help maintain consistency in tension and avoid mistakes.

Furthermore, learning how to finish a knit blanket not only involves technical skills but also allows for creativity in selecting various patterns, colors, textures, and borders. Don’t be afraid to try out new techniques or incorporate unique elements to make your blanket stand out.

Finally, knitting can be a therapeutic activity that promotes relaxation and mindfulness. Finishing a knit blanket is not just about reaching the end result, but it also provides a sense of accomplishment and pride in creating something with your own hands.

Overall, with proper techniques, patience, creativity, and love for crafting, anyone can successfully finish a knit blanket that will become a tre