Using a Steamer for Blocking
July 18, 2009
Minerva S., a Member of the SweaterBabe.com Knitting Club, asked me this:
Dear SweaterBabe,
What is your opinion on using a steamer to block knitted or crocheted items?
-- Minerva S.
And here is what I suggested:
I use a steam iron to do all of my blocking these days, unless I feel that more blocking is necessary.
If I want more blocking, I use wet handtowels (mostly wrung out) and lay them on top of the pinned down items and let it all air dry.
Are you asking about a steam iron or one of those fancy steamers that has a big water tank that you use for hanging items?
If you mean a steamer that is intended for use while an item is hung, I would definitely NOT recommend that. Most knitwear is too heavy and will stretch out if hung, especially if moisture is added.
-- SweaterBabe
Got a question for SweaterBabe? The Ask SweaterBabe feature is now a Member benefit of the SweaterBabe.com Knitting Club! Find out how to join and get all of your questions answered directly by SweaterBabe!
I like a steamer for blocking and will use my friends tank variety but still block things flat using foam core as a base. You have to watch the yarn type though. Acrylic is very sensitve to heat and will loose body if too much heat is used. I Just finished a vine lace christening gown made from Sirdir Snuggley. I washed the finished gown (washing machine) and wet blocked. Cottons and wool respond well to steam.
Posted by: Mary Meyer | July 27, 2009 at 07:59 AM