Blocking merino wool?

abc

I have an EF 100% merino wool sweater that has always been dry cleaned. The last few times I've worn it somehow it seems a lot shorter in the length. Is it possible to block it? What are the steps I need to take? Thanks in advance.

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8 years ago

General

6 replies

Latest reply was from Marilyn

Jennib12

Active Member

As I knitter, I block merino all the time. Is it 100% wool? I'd be wary of trying if it's not. To block, I would either immerse it in tepid water, or if it's really fine, you could just mist it heavily with a spray bottle. You could then pin the entire sweater out flat in the dimensions you want. I use a cardboard sewing mat thingie I bought at a craft store - cost me $5. The trick is to pin all the edges so they're laying nicely and not getting a little ripple, if you know what I mean? You won't get a ton of extra length out of it, but if it's 100% merino it will stretch. Just be careful because you can't easily go the other way!

Like I said, I do this with hand knit items all the time, but have never tried in on a purchased piece. If you're not wearing it because of the length, it might be worth a try!

8 years ago

abc

Veteran

Thanks Jennib12. When I wear it I feel the proportions are just off from where it used to hit me. Thx for the info. I may give it a try.

8 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

YES. Iron it with steam and stretch it out at the bottom by 2 inches. You have to iron quite vigorously.

8 years ago

abc

Veteran

Thanks, Angie! Xoxo

8 years ago

Anonymous

Jennib12 provided excellent true blocking instructions but there's a lazy version that can work well too.
After you wash the sweater, roll it in a towel to dry it a little, then lay it flat on a dry towel, pull and shape it as best you can, cover with another dry towel and weigh it down with books for the night.

8 years ago

Marilyn

Veteran

I second Angie on ironing with steam. I do this all the time. I'm petite so length is rarely an issue but I use this technique to give a bit of extra width when a sweater is too clingy. Works brilliantly.

8 years ago

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