Blocking your work can help relax and smooth out your stitches so they look more beautiful, and is essential on larger projects with shaping such as sweaters. Here are the basic steps:
- Fill a small sink or bowl with cool water; mix with a small amount of Woolite or other soap made for wool,
- Add your finished piece and let soak for 10 minutes,
- Rinse well until all the soap is gone,
- Press the piece very gently to get out some of the water, but do not squeeze or wring out your work,
- Lay the wet piece on a towel and roll up to get out much of the water, repeating one to three more times until the excess liquid is out,
- On a fresh towel, lay flat and shape how you want, and
- Leave until dry, which could take between 24 hours and a few days for a large or thick item.
The following video shows you how to do the steps:
Cushion of Joy 