Wet Blocking 101
Wet blocking is a foreign concept to most knitters and crocheters. In all honestly, you can go your whole maker life without blocking any of your projects. But, just like weaving in ends, blocking is a crucial finishing step to take your projects to the next level. Watch this video and see how to block knit & crochet projects the easy way!
This post contains affiliate links that support the content on TLYCBlog.com. All opinions are my own. Find my Privacy & Disclosures Policy here.
Pin It Now, Make It Later
I’ve had so much fun making another Loveland Shawl as part of the Loveland Crochet Along. After finishing my shawl, it was gorgeous, but a little stiff and you could barely see the gorgeous lace.
That’s where wet blocking comes in. Blocking is a process that involves submerging your finished knit and crochet projects in water, pinning them down, and letting them dry. The result is a piece with great drape, a lighter feel, and open lace.
If you’ve been wary to block your projects, I’ve got just the video for you. In less than 7 minutes, you’ll learn the following:
- What blocking is
- How it helps to perfect your knit & crochet projects
- All the supplies you need
- Exactly how to do it, step by step
Ready to get started? Watch this video:
I hope this video helps you conquer your fears and start blocking like a champ! Comment below with questions or any other blocking tips.
// RELEVANT LINKS
- Get the Loveland Shawl pattern here: https://tlyarncrafts.com/products/loveland-shawl-crochet-pdf-pattern
- Find more TL Yarn Crafts videos on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/tlyarncrafts
- 11 Essentials for Blocking Knitwear: https://tlycblog.com/knit-blocking-tools/
// BLOCKING SUPPLIES
- Rustproof pins: https://shrsl.com/28lcu
- Knit Blockers: https://amzn.to/2XT0n59
- Foam blocking boards: https://shrsl.com/28lcz
- Fancy wool wash: https://shrsl.com/28lcx
Thanks for your video. I was told by a yarn shop owner that she just steams her scarf or shawl projects and doesn’t block anymore. Have you ever tried this method and would appreciate your thoughts.
Hi Karen! There are many great ways to get the benefits of blocking with your finished projects. Steam blocking will work but is a much gentler form of blocking. Using this method on shawls will work, but it won’t give you as much increase in size or the drape you end up getting from wet blocking. Whether you steam or wet block something will really depend on preference and the particular project
Hi Toni, Thanks for sharing this video on blocking a crochet project. Honestly, I did it just once, but I realize how important it is for some specific projects. I appreciate your tips (mats and special blocking pins). I’m sure that will help me blocking my current project once it’s done 🙂 Take care!
Hey Toni,
I am new to wet blocking. I am currently making a Christmas vest for my husband (back panel & 2 front panels).
When would I wet block?
I am using patrons wool yarn and almost have the back panel completed to his size. I didnt realize that wet blocking could make the garment bigger.
When would you recommend wet blocking this vest?
Thanks for your help! I appreciate all the information you have shared!
Hi Deanna – since your project is just about the right dimensions, I wouldn’t wet block this vest. Instead, I would steam block it. I have a video on how to do that here.
Hi Toni,
Thank you so much for all this information on blocking. Its invaluable for a beginner like me! :o)
Like Deanna above, I am crocheting a cardigan for my sister (the project consists of 1 back panel, 2 front panel and 2 sleeves). I will go the steam-blocking route, however should I steam-block BEFORE I seam / join the panels or AFTER seaming / joining the panels?
Please reply when you can. Many many thanks.
Kind regards
-Rebecca
Great question, Rebecca! I always steam block BEFORE seaming. It makes it much easier to get the steam in contact with all of the pieces. I typically do another once over after seaming, to soften the seams and improve the drape. Hope that helps!
Thank you so very much for responding, Toni. It does certainly help. I did not think of doing another steaming after the seaming. That is so smart!
Thank you! :o)
-Rebecca