Learn All About The Beauty Of Blocking Crochet
Learn all about the Beauty Of Blocking Crochet. Blocking is a method of stretching and shaping a finished piece to reach the dimensions suggested in the pattern.
If you need to make two pieces that need to match the same size, or to make your stitches look more even, then blocking is the answer.
It’s an essential last step in crocheting especially if the project you just created doesn’t come out exactly the way you want it to look.
Any project that has pieces that need to be joined together can benefit from blocking, and it’s also great for making projects square come together better before sewing, to fit better, or even look better.
3 Different Methods Of Blocking
Spray Blocking
Spray blocking is the most gentle way to block. It is great for expensive and delicate fibers. If you don’t know what kind of yarn you’re working with, it’s a good method to use.
All you need to do is pin the piece to the desired dimensions and lightly spray the finished piece with water. Get it damp enough to relax the fibers, but not soaking wet. Allow to dry, and you’re done.
Usually the method is specified in the pattern. Instructions will vary depending on the project and the materials used.
If your pattern calls for Spray Blocking, here are a few tips on how to do it. Please Click Here: Spray Blocking for Knit and Crochet Projects
Steam Blocking
Steam blocking uses steam to relax the fibers instead of water. The method you use depends on the flexibility of the crocheting.
Heat and steam should not be used on human-made fibers because it tends to destroy them and will make a mess of all your hard work.
Different crocheters use different techniques when it comes to steam blocking. Some stretch and pin their work to the desired shape before they steam. Others will steam first and then pin.
If you can get it into shape without the steam, pin first. If not, steam and then pin.
Here are some tips and instructions on steam blocking. Please Click Here: Steam Blocking for Knit and Crochet Projects
Wet Blocking
Wet blocking is a finishing step that is often used in crochet patterns. It improves the finished look of stitches and seams and the overall project appearance.
It ensures the correct shape and measurements even after washing as some yarns tend to stretch or shrink.
Block a sample swatch before working on a finished pattern to see if there are any changes after blocking. It will help you to make necessary adjustments.
Tools required and steps to wet blocking are listed here: Wet Blocking for Knit and Crochet Projects
All the Above tutorial links take you to the Ira Rott Blog – thank you Ira!
For those of you who prefer watching video tutorials, check out the following which have been created by Beth over at Bethintx1:
And Finally this great video by Sarah Jane over at Bella Coco on Setting and Blocking:
Before we go, just a word of caution from Andrea from This Knitted Life: If you’re Happy with it the way it is… Leave it Alone! Please Click Here: When Blocking Can be A Bad Idea.
Featured image: Kirsten from Haakmaarraak – many thanks!
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