In knitting, crochet and other textile arts, blocking is a final stage of handmade textile production that adjusts the shape of the finished piece. Not all pieces need blocking, however blocking is standard for lace work, and is not uncommon in sweaters, socks, and other solid projects. Through heat and moisture, blocking sets the stitches and standardizes the final dimensions, and may enhance the drape.[1] Hand manufacture places natural stresses on fabrics that may result in deviations from its intended shape and size. Blocking is only effective on natural fibers.[2] This degree of malleability is determined by the type of yarn used, with wool providing the most flexibility. For projects that are produced in sections, blocking is normally done prior to final assembly.
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Blocking methods
Blocking can be done in several different ways. Depending on the method, the crafter may use rustproof pins, a steamer, or a steam iron. A stable flat surface and towels are standard. Fibers that tolerate water well may be wet blocked, shaping moist fabric into the desired shape and then allowing it to air dry. Cold blocking uses no heat and less water to achieve the same result by spraying water upon the material instead of immersing the fabric. Steam blocking uses a steamer or steam iron, but without applying direct pressure to the item.[3]
Wet Blocking
Wet blocking is done by saturating a garment in warm water and allowing it to dry after pinning or otherwise holding the garment in its desired shape.
Steam blocking
Steam blocking is done by hovering a hot, steaming iron over the fabric. Hovering it over it all, about 1 or 2 inches above the fabric, flattens the stitch, makes it thinner, and it will hold its shape better.
Spritz Blocking
Spritz blocking involves spraying the garment with water. This relaxes the fibers more than steam blocking but less than wet blocking. Most often, a spray bottle is used.
References
- ^ Edie Eckman, The Crochet Answer Book, North Adams, Massachesetts: Storey Publishing, 2005, p. 237.
- ^ Debbie Stoller, Stitch 'N Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker New York: Workman Publishing, 2006, p. 89.
- ^ Eckman, p. 238.
External links
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