Blocking

Blocking (textile arts)

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Crochet samples during blocking. After soaking in hot water these items were shaped and laid to dry on a towel. Pins hold some examples in the desired shape.

In knitting, crochet and other textile arts, blocking is a final stage of handmade textile production that adjusts the shape of the finished piece. 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.

[edit] 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]

[edit] References

1. ^ Edie Eckman, The Crochet Answer Book, North Adams, Massachesetts: Storey Publishing, 2005, p. 237.
2. ^ Debbie Stoller, Stitch 'N Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker New York: Workman Publishing, 2006, p. 89.
3. ^ Eckman, p. 238.

[edit] External links

• Michaels.com explanation of blocking

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