Learn how to wet block your crochet project with this tutorial at Nana’s Crafty Home!

If you have been working on the Autumn Rhapsody Blanket or are making the Sunflower Stitch, you may find this tutorial helpful. But, if you haven’t blocked your crochet projects in the past (or find the thought intimidating!) this tutorial will help you take this to many other projects as well.

I really love how the Sunflower Crochet Stitch looks in my blanket, but I was not in love with how much curling they did prior to blocking. Definitely not the look I was going for!

There are many benefits to blocking a crochet project:

• flatten curling edges
• lace usually needs blocking to open up the stitches
• straighten out uneven edges
• give squares uniform shape to make sewing together easier
• improve the finished appearance of your project

There are two different blocking methods – steam and wet blocking – and this tutorial will teach you the wet blocking method.

The Wet Blocking method can be used for cotton, acrylic and wool yarn – but because there can be many different fiber contents in yarn – it is important you follow the recommendations for all components of your yarn. However, wet blocking is generally safe for most yarn fibers.

Be careful not to over-block your project! Yarn fibers have a natural spring to them which provides the drape for your project. If you stretch your project too much when blocking, it will take the life from your yarn. Over-blocking can also flatten out cables or other textured stitches so it is best to only lightly block or not block at all in those areas of your project.

Blocking is not necessary for every project – if you like the look of your item, don’t block it!

To get free crochet patterns and get notified of future giveaways, sign up for my newsletter. I never share or sell your information to third parties — it stays private!

If you would like daily crochet inspiration be sure to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, Twitter and Tumblr!

Wet Block

You have two options with wet blocking. You can either pin the pieces first and then wet them down with a water-filled spray bottle. Or, immerse your project in cool water, squeeze out your project (gently!) then stretch and pin your project to the exact measurements on a flat board. Either option will work just fine and is entirely up to you. My preference is the 1st method – pinning first, then spraying.

The advantage to the spray method is that you can spot block your piece if you just want to block the edge or a section of your project.

The advantage to the immersion method is being able to wash your project prior to blocking – particularly useful for pet owners to get rid of unwanted pet hair from your project.

You may also like the following at Nana’s Crafty Home:

1. Tapestry Crochet Tips & Tricks Photo & Video Tutorial
2. Lace Clusters Stitch Tutorial
3. Guide to changing colors in Corner to Corner (C2C)

How to Wet Block Photo Tutorial

Supplies:

*This post contains affiliate links.  You can click on any yarn or material highlighted to purchase.  I will receive a small commission if you purchase but it won’t cost you any extra! 

Blocking Board – I purchased interlocking foam mats sold at a local box store being sold as a child’s play mat. However, most craft stores sell blocking boards.
T-Pins rust-proof
Spray bottle filled with water

Wet Block – spray method

Step 1: Prepare your supplies. Make sure your blocking board is big enough to manage the project you will be blocking. Lay out your project on the blocking board. Using your rust-proof pins, pin evenly around edge of your project – measuring to make sure your project is shaped and pinned to the right size.

Pin the complete outside edge of the project before pinning anything on the inside of your project.

NOTE: If steam blocking – do NOT use pins with plastic tops like those shown in photos as they will melt! I am using these pins because they are safe for wet blocking and they can be seen easily in a photo.

Step 2: With a spray bottle filled with cool water, evenly spray your project – including the edges. Spray until your project is wet – not just damp. You want the underside of your project to be wet (not just the front).

Step 3: Let air dry in a spot that will be undisturbed. This may take 24 hours or more depending upon humidity level.

Step 4: When completely dry, gently remove pins being careful not to snag any stitches.

Wet Block – Soaking method

Step 1: Fill a wash basin with enough cold water to cover your project. Add your project to the basin and let soak for about 15 to 20 minutes. If you are washing your project prior to blocking, add a mild detergent to your water. There are many mild detergent brands available specifically for knit or crochet items.

After your project has soaked, gently squeeze out excess water. Do not wring or twist! To absorb more water, you can place your piece in a towel and roll.

Step 2: Lay out your project on the blocking board. Using your rust-proof pins, pin evenly around edge of your project – measuring to make sure your project is shaped and pinned to the right size.

Step 3: Let air dry in a spot that will be undisturbed. This may take 24 hours or more depending upon humidity level.

Step 4: When completely dry, gently remove pins being careful not to snag any stitches.

Step 5: Enjoy your newly blocked and beautiful crochet piece!