Steam blocking is a method of blocking your knitting that uses steam. Giving a piece of knitting a steam block, is perfect for pieces that don’t need a lot of stretching.
How to Steam Block your Knitting
Lay piece flat on ironing board or other surface. Hold iron or steamer over surface of knitting without ever touching the surface and shoot sufficient steam into it to saturate the piece. Allow piece to dry without moving it.
If steam blocking doesn’t work for your project, you could alternatively wet block, or spray block your knitting.
Pattern Specific Variations to Steam Block
Sometimes, I include technique variations that are for specific patterns. I always include directions for specific techniques in the pattern itself, so be sure to also read any patterns you’re working on closely.
Steam Block Variation for Firenze
My preferred method for steam blocking is to do it on a counter or other large flat surface that you can use steam on. I do not put the iron down on either the knitting or the countertop, so it won’t hurt anything! I use a regular Rowenta iron for this, it doesn’t need to be fancy.
Heat the iron to linen, and make sure the water reservoir is full. Turn the steam to full steam. Lay the piece face down on the counter and with the iron about 1″/ 2.5 cm above the surface, shoot steam into the entire piece. You will see moisture on the countertop or surface you are using. Put the iron down and pat the piece into shape, using the moisture to hold it in place. Shoot more steam as needed. Check your measurements. Steam the entire piece again.
The concept is to get the piece damp, but not wet, from the steam, then allow it to thoroughly dry. I like to leave things at least 3 hours without touching them. Any shrinkage will occur as the piece dries. Your surface will look fabulous and your stitches will be lovely!
See also: spray block, wet block, steam block, blocking lace
