Just as a beloved tree needs occasional pruning to maintain its beauty and health, so too does a cherished knitted garment require some tender loving care. After a few years of wear and countless memorable occasions, your knitted piece may lose some of its initial shape, becoming a bit stretched, saggy, or misshapen. Don’t worry, though! You can easily rejuvenate your finished pieces—no matter how old—by re-blocking them.
Most of us know the importance of blocking a project when we first take it off the needles (or hook, for those of us who crochet 😉). Blocking helps even out your stitches, allows the fibers of the yarn to settle into their final configuration, and improves the fabric’s drape, making your finished piece feel beautiful and complete. It also allows you to stretch and shape your work to match the pattern’s stated dimensions, which is especially crucial for projects like lace shawls or sweaters, where the pattern’s intricacies and fit are essential.
However, even with careful washing, you may find that your piece eventually needs to be re-blocked in order to restore its original form and appearance. Luckily, it’s very easy to do!
- Gently wash your piece in cool water with a mild wool wash, then carefully squeeze out the excess water (remember, never wring out a knitted item).
- Reshape it on a clean towel or blocking mat, carefully adjusting it to match its original dimensions. You may need to use pins along the edges just as when you first blocked your piece.
- Leave it to dry flat in a well-ventilated, shady spot away from direct sunlight. This process not only revives your garment’s shape but also refreshes the fibers, helping your knitted item to look as stunning as the day you first wore it.
In our opinion, knitted garments are more than just clothes—they’re cherished companions that deserve to be loved and cared for, ensuring they’ll remain by your side, imparting warmth and comfort, for many more years to come.
Don’t forget to share your handmade garments with us on Facebook and Pinterest, we can’t wait to see the amazing projects you create!