FINISHING YOUR PROJECT...
What a great sense of accomplishment there is when a crochet project is finally completed! Though a relatively simple technique, blocking is what gives many projects a polished appearance. The process shapes and sets the design and smooths the stitches into place. Here are some handy tips we've learned over the years about blocking:
First: You should always check the yarn label for any special care instructions. Lots of natural fibers, such as cotton, linen, and wool, respond well to steam blocking. However, you shouldn't use steam or heat on mohair or angora. There are also many acrylics and some blends that shouldn't be blocked at all, especially with steam, because they might melt!
Second: You will need a fluffly hand towel or handkerchief, and a padded ironing board. If you prefer, you can substitute a table, or any flat surface that you have padded adequately.
Steam Blocking is great for lots of crochet projects, our crochet thread is a natural fiber, so this method works well with it. Holding a steam iron or steamer just above your project, steam the piece throughly. Take the dampened fluffy towel or handkerchief, place it over the edge of the project and steam, lift towel and repeat with another section all the way around. Finally, leave the item in place until it's dry.
