Crafting Cozy Crochet Blanket Blocks: A Step-By-Step Guide

Blocking a crochet blanket is a way to set its shape and make the stitches look more even. It is done by making the fibres damp or wet and then pinning them on a board to dry in the desired shape. There are three main methods of blocking: wet blocking, steam blocking, and spray blocking. Wet blocking involves dunking the blanket in water and then pinning it to a board to dry. Steam blocking uses the steam from an iron to dampen the blanket, and spray blocking involves misting the blanket with water until it is damp before pinning it to dry.

Blocking methods: wet, steam, spray, combo, or machine wash and dry

Blocking is a process that is done at the end of a crochet project, after you've woven in the ends. It involves making the fibres wet or damp and then pinning them on a board to dry in their final desired shape. This process makes the stitches look neater, the edges look straighter, and the work feel softer. It also helps to get closer to your desired dimensions.

There are three main methods of blocking: wet, steam, and spray.

Wet Blocking

Wet blocking involves dunking your crochet project in a basin of water and soaking it before removing and gently squeezing out any excess water. You then lay it out on a towel and roll it up to absorb more moisture. Once it is no longer dripping, you can lay it out on blocking boards or a mat and pin it to the desired shape. This method is more suitable for small items as larger items can become heavy and bulky, making it difficult to neatly pin them in place.

Steam Blocking

Steam blocking is done by using a handheld steamer or the steam setting on an iron and running it over the crochet project without touching it. This method is suitable for large projects as the fabric will not get oversaturated. However, it can be time-consuming and cumbersome, especially for large blankets.

Spray Blocking

Spray blocking is a simple method that only requires a spray bottle filled with water. You spray the crochet project until it is saturated, and then you wait for it to dry completely. This method works well for large crochet blankets as it does not require excess moisture, but it can take a long time to dry.

Combo Blocking

If you are short on time, you can combine wet and steam blocking. First, spray your crochet project with water, then lay it down or hang it up and start steaming. Once the fibres open up and become more drapey, pin it to the desired shape. You can then use a hairdryer on a low setting to speed up the drying process.

Machine Wash and Dry

For certain fibres, you can also use a washing machine and dryer to block your crochet project. Always check the fibre content and washing instructions on the yarn label. If machine washing and drying are not recommended, you can test a small swatch of your crochet item first. This method is suitable for blankets that do not require much shaping.

The importance of blocking: improves the look, feel, and shape of your crocheted blanket

Blocking is an important step in improving the look, feel, and shape of your crocheted blanket. It is a process that uses water or steam to shape your crochet fabric, giving it a more finished look. The moisture is added, the fabric is shaped and fixed using pins or wires, and then left to dry. Blocking helps to even out the tension in your crocheted blanket and enhance the look of lace or textured stitches. It is also used to flatten areas where the work has curled and improve the drape of the finished item.

There are three main methods of blocking: wet blocking, spray blocking, and steam blocking. Wet blocking involves completely submerging your crocheted blanket in water, gently removing excess water, and then pinning it to a blocking board to dry. Spray blocking is a great method for large crochet blankets as it does not require soaking the item in water, making it less heavy and bulky. It involves spraying the blanket with water until damp and then pinning it to dry. Steam blocking uses indirect heat from a steamer or iron to add moisture to the fabric. This method is suitable for acrylic yarn and fibres that do not respond well to wet blocking.

Blocking is not permanent, but it can help to improve the shape and size of your crocheted blanket. It is often done at the end of a crochet project, after weaving in the ends. By blocking your crocheted blanket, you can achieve neater stitches, straighter edges, and a softer feel. It can also help you get closer to your desired dimensions.

Overall, blocking is an important step in improving the look, feel, and shape of your crocheted blanket. It helps to enhance the appearance of your crochet work and ensure that your blanket lies flat and has the desired dimensions. By using the appropriate blocking method for your yarn type and project size, you can achieve the best results.

Why you should block: to make your blanket softer, neater, and more even

Blocking is a great way to make your crocheted blanket softer, neater, and more even. It is a process that uses water to shape your crochet fabric to achieve a more finished look. The moisture is added, the fabric is shaped and fixed, and then left to dry. This process is very effective in evening out the tension in your blanket and enhancing the look of lace or textured stitches.

Blocking is also used to flatten areas where the work has curled, highlight stitch definition, and improve the drape of the finished item. It is a great way to ensure that all the parts of your blanket are neatly shaped. The process can be done on all different types of yarn, so it doesn't matter if you are using acrylic yarn or more natural fibres.

There are three main methods of blocking: wet blocking, spray blocking, and steam blocking. Wet blocking involves dunking your project in a basin of water and soaking it before pinning it to a board to dry. This method can be difficult for large projects as the excess water weight makes the project heavy and bulky, making it hard to neatly pin in place. Spray blocking is a great alternative for large blankets as it uses less water and yields the same results. Steam blocking is more advanced and cumbersome as you only steam small portions of your project at a time, and you must be careful not to use too much heat.

Blocking your crochet blanket will make it softer, neater, and more even. It is a great way to enhance the look of your work and ensure that all the parts are uniformly shaped. The process is simple and can be done on any type of yarn, making it a great finishing step for any crochet project.

How to block: add moisture, shape, pin, and dry

Blocking is the process of using water to shape your crochet fabric to achieve a more finished look. The process involves adding moisture to the fabric, shaping and fixing it with pins, and then letting it dry. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to block your crochet blanket:

Add Moisture:

• For natural fibres such as cotton or wool, use a water-based method such as washing and air-drying or spraying the blanket with water. Submerge the blanket in cool water or wash it on a delicate cycle in the washing machine. You can also add a small amount of detergent if desired, but plain water works fine.
• For acrylic or acrylic-blend yarn, use an indirect heat method such as steam from an iron. Do not let the hot iron touch the yarn as it may melt it.

Shape and Pin:

• After removing the blanket from the water or washer, gently wring out the excess water. Place the blanket on a towel and roll it up to blot out more water. Be careful not to twist or stretch the blanket.
• Spread the blanket on a flat surface, such as a bed or the floor, covered with clean, dry towels. Smooth out the blanket, arranging it how you want it to look when dry. Aim for straight edges and an overall even appearance.
• Pin the blanket to the towels at the corners and sides. Use rust-proof pins to prevent stains and insert them about every 2-3 inches along each edge. You can also use special blocking clips if you prefer not to use pins.

Dry:

• Allow the blanket to air dry completely. This may take 12-24 hours, depending on the size and density of the blanket and the climate you are in. You can aim a fan at the blanket to speed up the drying process.
• For steam blocking, let the blanket cool for about 30 minutes after steaming before removing the pins.

Tips for blocking: use rust-proof pins, don't overstretch, and allow enough time for drying

When blocking your crochet blanket, it's important to use rust-proof pins. This is because, during the process, your crochet project will be damp, and regular pins can start to rust if they are left in for too long. Rust-proof pins will save you the trouble of having to wash your yarn to remove any rust stains.

Another tip for blocking is to avoid overstretching your crochet blanket. You should aim for straight edges and an overall even appearance, but be careful not to stretch it out. Overstretching will result in a loss of the professional finish you are aiming for.

Finally, make sure you allow enough time for your blanket to dry. Depending on the size and density of your blanket, as well as the climate you are in, it could take 12 to 24 hours to dry completely. Wait until it is completely dry before removing the pins.

Frequently asked questions