How to Wet Block Your Knits
How to Wet Block Your Knits
Blocking your knitting is one of the most transformative finishing steps you can do — it helps even out stitches, open up texture, improve drape, and set your piece to its final size and shape.
Why Wet Blocking Matters
Wet blocking gently relaxes the fibers in your finished knit so the fabric lies flat and the stitches look polished. This is especially helpful for things like lace, cables, and pieces with texture. It can also help:
smooth out curled edges (common in stockinette)
improve drape on garments meant to hang or flow
help your finished piece reach and hold its intended dimensions
soften fibers and give your knitting a more finished look
Most natural fibers — wool, alpaca, cotton, and linen — respond very well to wet blocking. Always check your yarn care instructions before you begin.
Watch the Video Tutorial
What You’ll Need
A basin or sink large enough to hold your garment
Cool water
A gentle wash for knits or mild soap
Towels for drying
Blocking mats or a clean, flat surface
Step-by-Step: How to Wet Block
1. Prepare your piece
Weave in all ends and make sure your knitting is ready to be shaped.
2. Soak it
Fill your sink or basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a gentle wool wash if you like. Submerge your piece fully and let it soak for about 15–20 minutes so the fibers relax.
3. Gently remove excess water
Lift the garment out and support it from underneath so it doesn’t stretch. Press out the water gently — do not wring or twist, which can distort the fabric.
4. Roll in a towel
Lay your piece flat on a towel, roll it up, and press or step on the towel to absorb more moisture. This speeds up drying time and helps avoid over-stretching.
5. Shape and pin
Lay the damp knit on blocking mats or another flat surface. Use T-pins or blocking wires to gently shape it to your desired dimensions. Pay attention to edges and pattern details.
6. Let it dry completely
Leave the piece pinned until it is completely dry. This can take several hours or overnight depending on size and thickness. Once dry, unpin and enjoy your finished knit.
How to Wet Block Your Knits
Blocking Tips
If the yarn is prone to bleeding, test a swatch first before soaking the whole piece.
Blocking can change stitch size, so blocking your gauge swatch before sewing is often helpful.
For lace shawls, blocking wires can help open up edges evenly.
Avoid overstretching delicate fabrics — gentle shaping is all you need.
Final Thoughts
Wet blocking doesn’t just finish a knit — it completes it. It smooths stitches, improves fit and drape, and gives your handmade piece the look and feel you imagined when you first picked up your needles.
How to Wet Block Your Knits