Crochet blocking mats are interlocking foam tiles, usually with a printed grid, that you pin a wet or steamed piece to while it dries into shape. I like mats over a rigid board specifically because they store flat in a stack, which matters if you don’t have a spare closet shelf for a full-size board.
Foam mat versus rigid board
A mat’s foam surface takes pins easily from any angle, which I find gentler on my fingers than pushing pins into a harder board surface. The trade-off is that foam tiles can dent over years of heavy pin use, while a rigid board’s surface stays flat indefinitely.
What to check before buying
Tile count determines your maximum blocking area, since most sets sell in packs of nine or so and expect you to interlock several together for anything bigger than a small motif. I own two sets myself so I can lay out a full sweater panel at once.
- Tile thickness: thicker foam holds pins more securely but takes up more storage space.
- Grid printing: check it’s visible in both inches and centimeters, and dark enough to see once yarn covers it.
- Number of tiles: buy enough to cover a full sweater panel if you block garments, not just small motifs.
Frequently asked questions
Are foam blocking mats better than a blocking board?
Neither is strictly better. Mats store flatter and take pins more easily, while a rigid board holds up longer under heavy, repeated use.
How many blocking mat tiles do I need?
A standard nine-tile set covers most single garment panels. Buy a second set if you regularly block full sweaters or large afghans in one piece.
Can blocking mats be used for knitting too?
Yes, the same interlocking foam tiles work identically for knitted pieces, since blocking mats aren’t specific to either craft.
Comparing all your blocking options?
See our full guide to blocking boards for the rigid alternative.