How to Block Crochet Tablecloths

Your crochet tablecloth will need to be blocked in order to fit your table accurately.

If you've just finished crocheting your tablecloth only to find that it doesn't seem to fit your table the way it should, you probably haven't blocked it yet. Blocking is the process of shaping a finished piece of knitting or crochet into the desired position and stretching with water or steam. When you block, it gives a permanent shaping to your piece, so be sure you are blocking it according to your measurements.

Instructions

1. Shape your tablecloth to the correct measurements on a flat surface, with the right side facing up. Pin the tablecloth in place to match the shape of your table.

2. Measure your gauge, or amount of stitches and rows per inch, after shaping to make sure you your gauge is correct. If you find that the pattern of your tablecloth looks stretched, loosen the pins and don't pull the tablecloth as tightly.

3. Use a plant sprayer or spray bottle on the fine mist setting to spray the tablecloth with water. Ideally, the tablecloth should be on the table you crocheted it for, to help keep its shape.

4. Steam with a steam brush, after shaping your tablecloth on top of absorbent pad, with tablecloth's right side up. Steam the tablecloth on the lowest setting, keeping the steam brush away from the surface. If using a regular steamer, turn the tablecloth wrong side up.

5. Allow the tablecloth to dry completely.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are blocking pieces of a tablecloth before sewing together, use a damp towel in place of the sprayer or steamer.

• If you don't have access to the table the tablecloth is designed for, draw an outline of the table's measurements on a flat surface. Use this guide for blocking the tablecloth correctly.

• Do not move the tablecloth until it is completely dried.

References

• "Knitter's Handbook;" Montse Stanley; 1993