After you’ve finished knitting a project, use blocking techniques to bring out the best in your work! With knitwear designer and author Kate Atherley as your guide, learn how to use blocking wires to make your stitchwork pop, your knitwear fit, your projects feel soft to the touch, and so much more. Kate will teach you about blocking, drying, and caring for a huge range of fibers, as well as how to protect your projects and supplies from moths and pests. Kate will even demystify using blocking wires to create perfectly straight edges, and pinning projects to form the shape and size you desire. Plus, Kate will take you step-by-step through blocking mittens, hats, lace scarves, lace shawls, one-piece, and multi-piece garments for the fabulous finish they deserve.
Class Materials:
Session 1: Introduction
Meet your Instructor, Kate Atherley, and find out more about the class.
Session 2: The Importance of Blocking
Kate shows a variety of blocked and unblocked projects to show how blocking helps flatten and shape knit pieces and show off stitch patterns.
Session 3: When to Block
Learn how to make blocking part of your finishing process, whether you’re knitting a single item or seaming together multiple pieces.
Session 4: How to Block
It’s as simple as getting your project thoroughly wet! You can use a bucket of water or the washing machine, depending on the project and the fiber.
Session 5: How to Treat Your Knits
Consider your yarn’s fiber content when determining how to handle it. Kate discusses wool washes, blocking with stitch holders and how to dry your project.
Session 6: Drying Your Knits
Some pieces require pins or wires when blocking to show off their stitches and shape. Kate shows you how to use these simple tools for the best effect.
Session 7: Blocking Your Projects
From socks and mittens to curved shawls, your creations deserve the best! You can return to this lesson again and again for tips on blocking any project.
Session 8: Fiber Care Guidelines
Kate discusses how to care for your knitted items and addresses that dreaded foe: clothes moths. Find out the best ways to avoid damage to your precious wool.
Session 9: Tips & Tricks
Kate covers a few last hints for blocking, including dealing with colorfastness, speed-drying and blocking to lengthen a garment.
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