Pointers

Here you’ll find helpful tips and videos for my patterns.

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Steam Blocking

I often finish a blanket and find slight ruffling along one edge or one side is a tad bigger than the opposite side. If the yarn is acrylic, steam blocking the project will create straight, even edges. There are many techniques to blocking a project, but I prefer steam blocking if the yarn is all acrylic. Very important! Never let the iron touch the acrylic yarn. (Doing so melts the fibers and fuses them together and you lose the texture of the yarn.)

Evenly spread blanket on blocking mats (you can also use an old towel or yoga mat), making sure edges are straight and even, and pin in place with blocking pins or T-pins. Steam with your iron or steamer 2 to 3 inches from the blanket. Repeat if needed and adjust edges as needed with your fingers—being careful not to burn them on the steam.

Let dry completely, I usually leave it pinned in place for a full day. When you remove the pins, the project should stay in place. If the project pulls or bounces, pin, steam and let dry again.

I did splurge on a complete blocking kit that has everything needed—interlocking foam blocks, 3 different pin types, measuring tape—all in a handy carrying bag. The blocks have lines in one-inch increments for easy arranging and measuring, as well as a circle pattern. I have not come across a more complete kit!