Blocking Crochet
By Rachel – 14 CommentsBlocking crochet is the process of “molding” your finished work into the shape that you desire. For example, you may want to block your crocheted bag so that it keeps a nice, sharp bag shape. Different techniques can be used for blocking your work depending on the type of yarn you used and the shape of the object being blocked. Here are some general guidelines to follow.
Step 1: Lay the item you want to block into the shape you want it to be. You may choose to use pins to hold your item in place. Try using pins that won’t rust. There are also boards specifically made for blocking, but you can use any surface that works for you. A layer of towels is great for adsorbing water and placing pins into.
Step 2: Wet it. Blocking is done be wetting your item and letting it dry. The method for wetting your item will depend on the type of yarn you are using. Check the yarn label for special instruction to make sure that you don’t violate any. You may choose to use a spray bottle to wet your item. You can also choose to steam your item using an iron. Since some materials should not be ironed, the safest way to block is via the spray bottle. You can also switch steps 1 and 2 and use the sink to wet the item.
Step 3: Let it dry. After your item is dry, it should be blocked!
Do you have a blocking tip? Fell free the share it by leaving it as a comment!
Hi! When I block, I wet the item first, and then (because I hate working with pins) I stretch it out to the shape I want it on a towel. Then I place a similar-sized towel on top, and then place a pile of heavy books on top of the whole thing. The next day I replace the towels with dry ones, and continue with the heavy books on top. Then I just let the item air-dry the rest of the way by itself.
After that is done, I lightly spray it with spray starch on both sides to help it be “stiff”.
This procedure is mostly for the doilies I make, but I guess could be used for other things.
Cool Pam! I have to try it that way. Thanks for sharing
[...] squeeze out as much water as possible and lay to dry. Often times you will want to block your work. Blocking crochet and other items is really easy, just set your item into the finished shape your desire and let it [...]
I deeply appreciate all the neat how-to articles and the gorgeous patterns. I’m building up my how-to folder quite quickly and most of it if from crochet spot. Thanks!
Hey, thanks for the information. I have never really known how to do this. I’ve only seen things that have been steam ironed, and I hate the look of ironed crochet! Any gifts like this I ever received, I’ve immediately washed and air-fluffed in the dryer. Love all the neat hints and stuff on your site!
[...] Blocking. In my opinion this the best thing to do. Blocking crochet is the one simple step to “mold” your work into the way you want it. Whether you choose to steam it with an iron or wet it and let it dry, blocking can be fast and easy to do. Learn more about Blocking Crochet. [...]
[...] projects require blocking for completion. See Blocking Crochet how to accomplish [...]
i tried blocking my scarf so i layed it flat and let it dry but it didnt work, any suggestions? thanks!
Hi Jaci, you can try to pin it down. Especially if it’s curling, having something to hold it down to keep it in place is probably needed.
[...] might need to “block it” before or after assembly – read the pattern. Search the internet on blocking. How hard can that [...]
[...] stitch is one that looks best when blocked, depending on the type of yarn you are using. Check out Blocking Crochet for more information on what blocking is and how to achieve [...]
Hello again Rachel, lol
I have crochet the pound of love hooded baby afghan and I put an edging on. Well what happened is I now have a curve in the blanket. Think I pulled the stitches too tight. Once I block the blanket will it have to be reblocked once the person who receives it wash it or is it set permanently? Please help me. Thank you so much!!
Hi Angela, I wouldn’t count on the blanket keeping it’s shape after it’s washed.
Thank you. Guess I better remove the edging. You are such a great help to me.