I blocked my sweater last night. I bought a sample of "Soak" at my LYS to use instead of my usual Woolite. Apparently some people think Woolite is too abrasive/damaging, but I've always found it to be fine when I've used it. Anyways, since this is my biggest knitting accomplishment thus far, I thought I'd get the "good stuff." :) It's no rinse which is nice when you're soaking a big item. I didn't read up much on blocking ahead of time, and I just squeezed the water out afterwards while holding it up. Later I read that you should try not to lift the sweater unsupported because it can stretch out too much. It's better to just squeeze out the water in a towel. Anyways, when I laid the sweater out to dry I got a little nervous because it looked a lot bigger!! Nervous enough to lay down next to the sweater to see if it looked like it would still fit my torso--ha! :) (I knew it would get a little bigger since I had done a wash/dry gauge swatch and I was expecting it to grow about 1/4 inch for every 2 inches.)
I tried it on this morning, though, and it is fitting nicely! The body was a little short to begin with, so I like the new length. The sleeve that I made full length looks just about right. I just need to add the hem. I thought I might have to frog a few rows from the sleeve before doing that but I think it is ok (see my arm on the door in the second photo). The blocking did take care of some of the jog that was on the second sleeve. I don't think I'll re-knit it.
So, overall I think it is a success! I like the way the scalloped front band lays now after it's been blocked. The yarn definitely became a lot drapier when washed but it is soft and pretty.
It looks just wonderful! The color, the fit, you! Is that a skinny mirror in your powder room or do you just look fabulous?
ReplyDeleteLove ya tons!
I LOVE it! And I admire your patience, and the fact that you took the time to do everything the RIGHT way! I often don't do that, and it helps to be reminded of that so I can improve :-)
ReplyDeletePS: I've only blocked a few small-ish things (never as big as a sweater!)and I used just plain water, soaking the item for just a few minutes before lifting it out (I do do the towel thing you mentioned). Do you think Woollite or "Soak" really make a difference? Does it just make it softer, or are there other benefits? Did you get a scented Soak?
Thanks, Mom and Erica! Erica, I use Woolite on my baby gifts because I want them to be totally fresh and clean. If it's for an adult I usually don't bother. :) This was the first item I washed for the purpose of shaping it. I got the scented citrus soak. I didn't think it made a big difference in look/scent but I did like that I didn't have to rinse it out.
ReplyDeleteSo glad that it worked out. The sweater is gorgeous!
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