How do you block crochet comes down to two main methods: wet blocking, where you soak the piece and pin it flat to dry, and steam blocking, where you use a steam iron held just above the fabric to relax the fibers into shape. I wet block anything cotton and steam block anything wool, since the two fibers respond differently. This guide covers both methods step by step.
Wet Blocking
- Soak the finished piece in cool water for about 15 minutes.
- Gently squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting.
- Lay flat on a towel or blocking mat, pinning edges and corners to your target measurements.
- Let air dry completely before removing the pins.
Steam Blocking
- Pin the dry piece to your target shape on a blocking mat.
- Hold a steam iron just above the fabric, never touching it directly, and pass steam over the piece.
- Let the piece cool and dry fully before removing pins.
Frequently asked questions
Should I wet block or steam block my project?
Wet blocking works well for cotton and most acrylics, while steam blocking suits wool and other animal fibers that respond well to heat and moisture without a full soak. Always check your yarn label’s care instructions before choosing a method.
Want to stop curling before you even block?
Blocking fixes a lot, but the right stitch choice prevents curling from the start.
See why crochet curls and how to prevent it