I hate blocking.
Of all the non-knitting elements that go into a garment, blocking is my least favorite. I'd rather sew seams, which I actually enjoy. Weaving in ends is right up there too, but blocking wins. For several years I didn't even know I was suppose to be blocking my garments. Now I do it when it's necessary, especially for design submissions. I just blocked a sweater for the fall issue of Vogue. The yarn was Reynolds Andean Alpaca Regal. The blocking was actually easy and it resulted in a very soft fabric. I was inspired.
I've had a sweater sitting in my closet since I think September (I was going to wear it for Thanksgiving). All that needed to be done was blocking the bottom trim. So inspired by the success of the other sweater, I pulled it out for blocking. I got out the pattern to read the dimensions, and right there I see instructions for pressing. No, not full on dunk-the-sweater-in-water type of blocking. Just a damp cloth and warm iron pressing. I've been waiting months to wear this sweater and all I needed to do was a quick pressing.
Before
After
The pattern is Cloud from Rowan's Calmer Collection book. I used a different yarn though, Jo Sharp Silkroad DK Tweed.
In the spirit of finishing things, I finally finished the Katrina rib. It has been sitting in my knitting bag for months just needing about 6 more rounds. It looks great, but I'm not happy with the neckline. Mine came out just a bit too wavy from the ribbing. I've tried a few different edgings, but haven't found one I like yet.
Of all the non-knitting elements that go into a garment, blocking is my least favorite. I'd rather sew seams, which I actually enjoy. Weaving in ends is right up there too, but blocking wins. For several years I didn't even know I was suppose to be blocking my garments. Now I do it when it's necessary, especially for design submissions. I just blocked a sweater for the fall issue of Vogue. The yarn was Reynolds Andean Alpaca Regal. The blocking was actually easy and it resulted in a very soft fabric. I was inspired.
I've had a sweater sitting in my closet since I think September (I was going to wear it for Thanksgiving). All that needed to be done was blocking the bottom trim. So inspired by the success of the other sweater, I pulled it out for blocking. I got out the pattern to read the dimensions, and right there I see instructions for pressing. No, not full on dunk-the-sweater-in-water type of blocking. Just a damp cloth and warm iron pressing. I've been waiting months to wear this sweater and all I needed to do was a quick pressing.
Before
After
The pattern is Cloud from Rowan's Calmer Collection book. I used a different yarn though, Jo Sharp Silkroad DK Tweed.
In the spirit of finishing things, I finally finished the Katrina rib. It has been sitting in my knitting bag for months just needing about 6 more rounds. It looks great, but I'm not happy with the neckline. Mine came out just a bit too wavy from the ribbing. I've tried a few different edgings, but haven't found one I like yet.
Labels: My Finished Objects
posted by Jordana Paige at 3/09/2006 01:03:00 PM
4 Comments:
I'm not sure if this was an intended result of your post or not, but knowing that "well-known knitwear designer Jordana Paige" doesn't like blocking (and has UFOs) makes me feel better about my own stalled projects. :)
(P.S. I LOVE the new blue knitting bag... congratulations on another fantastic design success!)
Jena you made me laugh. Yes, I think to be a true knitter one MUST have UFOs and at least a small stash of yarn!
Hi Jordana, I've blocked once in my life and decided there must be a better way. I've steam pressed everything I've ever knit since (and I'm talking a couple of decades at least). Light, heavy depending on the yarn (though nevera acrylic... though I never use it anyway so.. moot point!). Woman from the Wool Council once told me I was doing it right and that's why my knits (and and machine) held their shape.
Glad you have a blog on your site! Great!!
knitknut,
I think steam pressing is what I'm going to try from now on. So much less work re-shaping it and the results are great.
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