To steam block crochet with an iron, you position your project on a blocking surface and apply steam from an iron held just above the fabric, ensuring the iron does not make direct contact.
Steam blocking is a popular method for shaping and setting crochet projects, especially those made from animal fibers like wool, which respond well to moisture and heat. Using an iron for steam blocking allows you to target steam effectively without the risk of flattening stitches that direct ironing can cause.
Here's a breakdown of the process based on the provided information:
Preparing for Steam Blocking
Before you begin steaming, ensure your project is ready:
- Gather Supplies: You will need your finished crochet project, a blocking board or thick towels, rust-proof pins, and a steam iron.
- Prepare the Surface: Lay your project flat on the blocking board. This provides a stable, pin-friendly surface. If you don't have a dedicated blocking board, stacked towels or a foam mat can work.
- Shape and Pin: Pinning it flat if needed helps to stretch your project to the desired dimensions and keep edges straight. Pin the project according to your pattern's finished measurements or to achieve an even shape. Use plenty of pins to hold the shape securely.
Applying Steam with an Iron
Once your project is pinned and ready, it's time to apply the steam:
- Fill the Iron: Fill your iron's reservoir with water according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Heat the Iron: Turn on the iron and set it to a steam setting appropriate for the fiber type of your project. Allow it to heat up fully until it produces a steady stream of steam.
- Apply Steam: Hold the iron just above the project (but do NOT let it touch), and let the iron release some steam onto your project. Move the iron slowly over the pinned area, allowing the steam to penetrate the fibers. Do not press down or let the soleplate touch the yarn.
- Shape and Set: The heat and moisture from the steam relax the fibers, allowing them to be shaped. Allow the pins to help the project stretch and/or lay flat, or gently use your hand (just be careful not to burn yourself) to guide the fabric into the correct shape while it's warm and damp.
Drying and Finishing
After steaming, leave the project pinned on the blocking board until it is completely dry. This is a crucial step to ensure the new shape is set. Once dry, unpin your project, and it will hold its new, improved shape.
Key Takeaway: The essential technique when using an iron for steam blocking is applying steam from a short distance without touching the project itself. This prevents crushing the texture of your crochet stitches while still allowing the heat and moisture to relax and shape the fibers.
