How to Wet Block Knitting

Wet blocking ensures that buttons and button holes line up.

A knitting project isn't complete until you block it. Blocking helps a piece lay correctly once its finished. Knit Simple magazine says, "Without blocking, a knit garment winds up looking sloppy." Wet blocking works for most fibers, but check the yarn label for care instructions before wet blocking the project since some fibers, such as polyester eyelash or plush yarns, do not need blocking.

Things You'll Need

• Towel
• Spray bottle (with water)
• Pins

Instructions

1. Fill a spray bottle with cool water.

2. Dampen the knit piece with a spray bottle. Do not saturate the piece, but make sure it is damp all the way through.

3. Spread the piece flat on a towel or flat board. Place it in an area where it can remain for several hours to dry.

4. Gently stretch and pull the to work it into the right shape without curled or crooked edges and seams.

5. Pin the piece (with rustproof pins or needles) in place on the towel or padded surface of the flat board. Once the knitted piece dries, it should keep the shape. If it does not, try blocking again pulling a little harder to reshape it.

Tips & Warnings

• Stockinette stitch is going to curl; wet blocking alone will not fix the issue. Try adding edging or replacing the edges with garter stitch.

References

• KnittingHelp.com: Orientation for Beginning Knitting
• Knit Simple Magazine: Knit 101 Blocking
• Vogue Knitting: Wear and Care

Resources

• Vogue Knitting: Wear and Care