Many knitters do not spend the time to block their finished projects, especially if they knit with [tag]acrylic yarns[/tag]. A nice thing about acrylic is that it’s self-blocking – just toss it into the washer and dryer, and it springs back into the shape it’s supposed to be. Just make sure it gets dried thoroughly.
But, other yarns, like wool, do need to be blocked. This helps to set the shape of the garment, it helps to relax your stitches and it helps to show off your stitch design. [tag]Blocking[/tag] can also help the drape of your project and correct parts of the item that just don’t look or fit properly.
Most knitters block their piece where ever they have a flat surface: washing machine, dryer, spare bed, floor, kitchen counter – you name the place and an inventive knitter has used the space!
Other knitters feel the need to use a blocking board. Sometimes you just don’t have a large enough flat surface to fit your project and a [tag]blocking board[/tag] gives you a surface you can get wet and stick pins in! The inch grids on the board help you to square up your item and block to size properly.
This board is available through [tag]Webs[/tag] and it can be folded up and slipped into a closet when you are finished.
I made my own blocking boards. I am very proud of them and find them imensley usefull. I wouldn’t be without them now and I would never NOT block my work as it really does make it easier to sew together and gives it a much more professional look.
Thanks for the comment Rachael. The more I use natural fibers, the more I see how the knitting just “pops” after blocking. Really finishes the garment!