Tips on water blocking

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So I’m in the process of making a summer cardigan. And In the pattern it says to block it so it fits the measurements. I’ve never blocked anything before so if anyone has any tips that would be very appreciated!

I have decided to wet block it. The yarn is
51% cotton
49% rayon from bamboo
But let me know if I should stem block it instead.

I’m also thinking of letting it dry outside cuz it’s really nice today. But let me know if there’s anything I should look out for.

Have a wonderful day :two_hearts:

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i normally steam block cotton as the water makes it “heavy” even after drying

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although if it is acrylic i would sugjust water blocking because the heat can melt the yarn

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I’ve water blocked a few things (mostly granny squares and a scarf for my great grandma) but I would say wash it in the sink with either laundry detergent or just simply wash it with just water- luke warm leaning towards warmer- and pin it to cardboard with sewing pins (idk the actual name for them)

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In this case I suggest you avoid steaming as cotton can shrink if you use heat such as a steamer or if you put it in the clothes dryer.

Check the yarn label to see the washing instructions. It should give you an idea of water temp etc.

Is the item made all in one piece or in multiple pieces which are then stitched together?

If it’s made in multiple pieces and then stitched together, you may want to block each piece before seaming/joining the pieces together.

Does the pattern give you any instructions on how to block the item. If you’ve used the same yarn as the pattern, follow their directions.

Never place your project on a hanger to dry/block as this will pull the garment out of shape.

Here is how I wet block my makes.

  1. Place your item in the laundry sink and cover it with water, allowing the water to penetrate the fibres. Don’t agitate it in the water, just press it to encourage the uptake of water. There’s no need to add detergent etc.
  2. Drain the sink of water and with your hands, press the item multiple times to remove excess water. Don’t wring it out.
  3. Get a bath sheet/towel and lay it flat on a table/kitchen bench etc.
  4. Take your item from the sink and place it flat on the bath sheet.
  5. Roll the bath sheet and item together tightly and gradually, at the same time press and squeeze out the excess water remaining in the pieces. You may need to do this several times.
  6. Unroll the bath sheet/towel and your project.
  7. Spread the item over your blocking mats, gently pulling it into shape. If the blocking mat isn’t big enough you can use folded towels etc to enlarge the surface as needed.
  8. If needed you can pin the item to the size needed/suggested in the pattern, to the blocking mat.
  9. Once the item is dry, remove pins and voila your item has been blocked.

You can definitely place it outside to dry.

  • I suggest keeping it out of direct sunlight as this can cause fading.

  • It’s best to do this on a day that isn’t windy as you could end up with dust and dirt all over your project.

I hope this helps out. :smiley:

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Wow!! Tysm for taking the time to write that :blush:

I really appreciate it, and you answered a lot of my questions!

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You’re very welcome. :smiley:

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I found that videos were really helpful when I was learning to block!

I can’t find the one I first watched, it was by TL Yarn Crafts.

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