When it comes to knitting, the joy of completing a project is unparalleled. However, to truly showcase the beauty of your handiwork, blocking and finishing are essential steps that should not be overlooked. These processes help to shape and smooth your knitted fabric, ensuring that it looks polished and professional. To achieve the best results, it is important to have the right tools at your disposal. In this article, we will explore the essential tools for blocking and finishing your finished knits.
Blocking Mats and T-Pins
Blocking mats are a must-have tool for any knitter. These foam mats provide a soft and stable surface for blocking your knitted pieces. They also come with grid lines that help you achieve accurate measurements and ensure that your project is symmetrical. T-pins are used to secure your knitted fabric to the blocking mats, allowing you to stretch and shape it as desired. These pins are long and sturdy, ensuring that your fabric stays in place during the blocking process.
Steam Iron
A steam iron is an indispensable tool for finishing your knits. It helps to set the shape of your fabric and smooth out any wrinkles or creases. When using a steam iron, it is important to place a pressing cloth or a towel between the iron and your knitted fabric to protect it from direct heat. Gently apply steam to the fabric, using the iron in an up-and-down motion. This will help to relax the fibers and give your knitted piece a professional finish.
Blocking Wires
Blocking wires are incredibly useful for achieving clean and crisp edges on your knitted garments. They are particularly helpful when blocking lace or delicate fabrics. Blocking wires can be threaded through the edges of your knitted piece, allowing you to stretch and shape it evenly. They are flexible and easy to work with, ensuring that you get the desired results every time.
Seam Roll
A seam roll is a cylindrical cushion that is used to press seams and shape curved areas of your knitted garments. It helps to create smooth and well-defined edges, giving your finished project a polished look. To use a seam roll, simply place it inside your knitted piece and press with a steam iron. This will help to set the shape and give your garment a professional finish.
Tapestry Needles
Tapestry needles are essential tools for weaving in ends and seaming your knitted pieces together. They have large eyes that can accommodate yarn, making it easy to hide loose ends within the fabric. When seaming, tapestry needles allow you to create invisible joins by weaving the yarn through the stitches in a seamless manner. These needles come in different sizes, so be sure to have a variety on hand to suit different yarn weights and project sizes.
In conclusion, blocking and finishing are crucial steps to ensure that your knitted projects look their best. With the right tools, you can shape, smooth, and give your fabric a professional finish. Investing in essential tools such as blocking mats, T-pins, a steam iron, blocking wires, a seam roll, and tapestry needles will greatly enhance your knitting experience and help you achieve stunning results. So, the next time you finish a knitting project, don’t forget to block and finish it with care, using these essential tools. Your knits will thank you for it!
