Easy Tricks to Block and Pin your Crochet Lace Shawl

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Brand New Pattern and Yarn Kit
3. Materials Needed for Blocking
4. How to Block a Shawl
   1. Preparing the Shawl for Blocking
   2. Soaking the Shawl in Water
   3. Removing Excess Water
   4. Rolling the Shawl in a Towel
   5. Setting up the Blocking Board
   6. Pinning the Shawl
   7. Blocking the Top Edge
   8. Blocking the Bottom Edge with Beads
   9. Adding More Blocking Mats
   10. Drying the Shawl
   11. Final Touches and Release of Pattern
5. Conclusion

The Art of Blocking a Shawl

Shawls are not only beautiful fashion accessories but also cherished pieces of handmade art. To truly enhance the look of a shawl, blocking is a crucial step that helps open up lace patterns, evens out stitches, and gives the fabric a polished and professional finish. In this article, we will explore the process of blocking a shawl, using a brand new pattern and yarn kit as our example.

The Brand New Pattern and Yarn Kit

We begin our journey into the art of blocking with a brand new pattern and yarn kit. This kit, soon to be available on our website, features a beautiful shawl adorned with little jingle bells, made from rose gold-tone beads with crystals inside. The pattern uses a sport weight bamboo yarn called Sporty Cakes, which comes in self-striping cakes with four colors. With two balls of yarn, totaling 240 cakes, you can create an eight-stripe shawl with stunning color transitions.

Materials Needed for Blocking

Before we dive into the blocking process, let's gather the materials we will need. These include the shawl itself, a basin or bowl for soaking, room-temperature water, a gentle wash product called Rapture, a fluffy towel, blocking mats, and pins. It's important to have all these items ready to ensure a smooth and successful blocking experience.

How to Block a Shawl

Preparing the Shawl for Blocking

To begin the blocking process, we need to prepare the shawl. If it's a finished project, the shawl should be clean and free from any dirt or debris. If not, give it a gentle hand wash using a delicate wash product like Rapture. Once the shawl is clean, gently squeeze out the excess water, being careful not to wring or twist the fabric, as this can damage the stitches.

Soaking the Shawl in Water

Now that the shawl is clean and damp, it's time to soak it in water. Fill a basin or bowl with room-temperature water and add a capful of the delicate wash product. Place the shawl in the water and gently press it down to ensure it is fully submerged. Allow the fibers to relax and absorb the water for about 15 minutes. This soaking process helps the yarn to soften and become more pliable, making it easier to shape during blocking.

Removing Excess Water

After the shawl has soaked, it's time to remove the excess water. Lay a dry, fluffy towel on a flat surface and place the shawl on top. Roll the towel and shawl together, pressing gently to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. You can press down firmly without worrying about damaging the fibers, but avoid twisting or moving the fabric in multiple directions, as this can cause distortions.

Setting up the Blocking Board

Now that the shawl has been prepared, it's time to set up the blocking board. Place the blocking mats on a flat surface, ensuring they are aligned to create a large enough space for the shawl to lay flat. If the shawl is larger than the blocking mats, you can either steam the edges or add more mats to accommodate its size. The goal is to have a sturdy and stable surface to work on.

Pinning the Shawl

With the blocking board ready, it's time to start pinning the shawl. Begin at the top edge, finding the center point and gently pinning it down. Continue pinning along the top edge, ensuring it is straight and even. Moving to the bottom edge, which is the more important part of the blocking process, find the center point of the scallops and pin them down. Each scallop has a chain three space in the middle, making it convenient for blocking.

Blocking the Top Edge

The top edge of the shawl is pinned out to define its shape and ensure it lays flat. Carefully adjust the pins to create a smooth edge, keeping the stitches evenly spaced. Take your time to achieve the desired result, as this will greatly impact the overall appearance of the shawl.

Blocking the Bottom Edge with Beads

The bottom edge of the shawl is where the lace edging and beads are located. Starting from the center, pin out each scallop, making sure to position the beads in the chain three spaces for an even and beautiful look. Working with midpoints is key to achieving a balanced and symmetrical shawl.

Adding More Blocking Mats

If the blocking mats are too small to accommodate the entire shawl, you can add more mats as needed. This ensures that the entire shawl receives the same blocking treatment, resulting in a cohesive finish. Don't be afraid to fuss and adjust the shawl as needed to achieve the desired shape and symmetry.

Drying the Shawl

Once the shawl is fully pinned, it's time to let it dry. To expedite the drying process, place the shawl in a well-ventilated area or in front of fans. The foam blocking mats are not absorbent, so a good airflow is essential for quick drying. With the right conditions, the shawl should dry within a day.

Final Touches and Release of Pattern

After the shawl is completely dry, unpin it carefully and marvel at the transformation. The lace patterns are now open and defined, the stitches are even, and the shawl has a polished and professional appearance. It's now ready to be photographed, and the pattern can be released on the website for fellow crocheters to enjoy.

Conclusion

Blocking a shawl is an essential step in creating a finished and professional-looking piece. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enhance the beauty of your handcrafted shawls and garments. Remember to take your time, adjust as needed, and enjoy the process of transforming your project into a true work of art.

Highlights

• Discover the art of blocking a shawl to enhance its beauty and finish.
• Explore a brand new pattern and yarn kit featuring a stunning shawl with jingle bells.
• Learn the step-by-step process of blocking a shawl, from washing to pinning and drying.
• Understand the importance of midpoints and symmetry in blocking lace edging and beads.
• Create a harmonious and polished finish by adjusting and fussing with the shawl as needed.
• Use the right materials and techniques to ensure a successful blocking experience.
• Enjoy the transformation as your shawl opens up, stitches even out, and patterns come to life.
• Release the pattern on your website and share your creation with fellow crocheters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use blocking mats that are smaller than my shawl?

A: If your shawl exceeds the size of your blocking mats, you can either steam the edges or add more mats to accommodate its size. The goal is to have a flat and stable surface for blocking.

Q: Do I need to use beads for blocking a shawl?

A: The use of beads is optional and depends on the design of your shawl. If your pattern includes beads, blocking with them can enhance the overall look and add a touch of elegance.

Q: How long does it take for a shawl to dry after blocking?

A: The drying time varies depending on factors such as humidity and airflow. With good ventilation or the use of fans, the shawl should dry within a day.

Q: Can I block a shawl made from different yarn weights?

A: The blocking process might differ slightly for shawls made from different yarn weights. Thicker yarns might require a more gentle blocking technique, while fine lace shawls may need to be stretched more for lace patterns to open up.

Q: Should I block my shawl if I am planning to wear it regularly?

A: Blocking helps to set the shape, even out stitches, and open up lace patterns. If you plan to wear your shawl regularly, blocking can help it maintain its shape and overall appearance even after washing.