Crochet Journal
Steam Blocking vs Wet Blocking vs Spray Blocking
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Blocking settles stitches and helps a piece reach its intended shape. The safest method depends on fibre content, construction and the manufacturer's care instructions.
Wet blocking
The item is washed or fully soaked as permitted, excess water is removed without wringing and the piece is shaped to dry. This allows the whole fabric to relax and is useful when the yarn tolerates immersion.
Spray blocking
The dry item is pinned to measurements and misted evenly with water. It uses less moisture and can be convenient for light shaping, though the effect may be gentler than full wet blocking.
Steam blocking
Steam is applied near the fabric without pressing the iron onto it. Heat can permanently flatten texture or damage some synthetics, so test a swatch and obey care symbols. Begin with the least aggressive suitable method and use rust-resistant pins on a clean surface.
Keep this in mind
Let the label and a test swatch decide among wet, spray and steam methods; heat should never be an automatic choice.
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