How to Block a Crocheted Sweater

Blocking is the process by which an entire crocheted sweater is gently pulled into proper shape and dimension. This is done through the use of a pattern. Crochet books offer varied advice on blocking, and some even say it isn’t necessary. However, many professional and hobbyist crocheters agree that blocking gives a sweater an expert finish. It helps make stitches look uniform. Blocking can be done using water or steam, and the method chosen is partly dictated by the yarn used to create the sweater.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• White towels
• Styrofoam board
• Rustproof straight pins
• Spray bottle
• Steam iron
• Garment steamer

1. Block sweater pieces separately before assembling the sweater. Do this if a significant amount of easing will be necessary to bring them to the size and shape that matches the pattern you’re following. For example, blocking can be used to make sleeves the same width and length.

2. Examine the crocheted sweater pieces to see whether any of them curled as they were stitched. Another purpose for blocking is to get sections to lie flat.

3. Consider the yarn used to make the sweater. Steam can be used to block natural-fiber sweaters made from cotton, linen and wool. Steam can make acrylic and nylon sweaters limp. Cool water blocking is recommended for sweaters stitched with man-made yarns.

4. Use a solid, flat surface to block the sweater. This will serve as your blocking board. You can lay three or four white towels on a table or floor for this purpose. You can also use a Styrofoam board large enough to accommodate the pieces you’re blocking.

5. Check your pattern dimensions. Separately pin the pieces to the blocking board in accordance with those dimensions, inserting the pins along the edges of the piece. Use rustproof, straight pins to attach each piece to the board. Space them close together.

6. Take a spray bottle filled with clean, cool water. Thoroughly wet the crochet sweater piece attached to the blocking board, without drenching it. Remove the crochet sweater piece from the blocking board after it dries. Check it to make sure its dimensions agree with your pattern.

7. Steam your sweater pieces using an iron or garment steamer held at least an inch away from them. Make sure the steam iron temperature is set correctly for the yarn used to create the sweater. Allow steamed pieces to dry. Remember to check the resulting dimensions before assembling the crocheted sweater.

Tips & Warnings

• Use white towels or colorfast towels that won’t bleed onto your sweater when dampened.
• Take care not to damage the surface of a floor or table with steam or pin scratches.

Resources

• More on Blocking Sweaters