To effectively "iron" a knitted blanket without damaging its delicate stitches or texture, the recommended method is steam blocking using an iron. Direct application of a hot iron can flatten stitches, remove loft, and potentially melt synthetic fibers. Steam blocking, however, uses the gentle power of steam to relax fibers, shape your blanket, and create a smooth, even finish.
Understanding Steam Blocking for Knitted Blankets
Steam blocking is a finishing technique that uses moisture and heat to set the shape and size of knitted items. It's particularly beneficial for blankets as it helps:
- Even out stitches: Makes your knitting look more uniform.
- Achieve desired dimensions: Allows you to gently stretch and set the fabric to specific measurements.
- Enhance drape: Gives the blanket a softer, more fluid feel.
- Smooth out curls: Flattens edges that tend to roll.
Essential Tools for Steam Blocking
Before you begin, gather these items:
- Steam Iron: Any standard iron with a good steam function will work.
- Blocking Mats or Thick Towels: Interlocking foam mats (often used for puzzles or exercise) are ideal for pinning, but clean, thick towels spread over a flat surface also work.
- Rust-Proof T-Pins or Straight Pins: Essential for securing your blanket in shape.
- Measuring Tape: To ensure your blanket reaches its desired dimensions.
- Spray Bottle (Optional): For stubborn areas or if your iron's steam output is weak.
Step-by-Step Guide to Steam Blocking Your Knitted Blanket
Follow these steps carefully to steam block your knitted blanket to perfection:
-
Prepare Your Blanket:
- If your blanket is very dirty or needs a thorough wash, hand wash it gently and squeeze out excess water. You can block it damp or dry, but damp can sometimes be more effective.
- Lay your blanket flat on your blocking mats or clean, dry towels. Ensure you have enough space to spread it out completely.
-
Shape and Pin:
- Gently smooth the blanket with your hands, working from the center outwards.
- Using your measuring tape, carefully stretch and pin the blanket to its desired finished dimensions.
- Insert pins along the edges, about 1-2 inches apart, ensuring that the edges are straight and any curling is flattened. Avoid overstretching, as this can distort the fabric.
-
Set Up Your Iron:
- Fill your iron with distilled water.
- Set your iron to the appropriate steam setting for your blanket's fiber type (e.g., medium for wool, low for acrylic, high for cotton). Crucially, ensure the iron is set to produce plenty of steam.
- Important: Never allow the iron's hot plate to directly touch your knitted blanket.
-
The Steaming Process:
- Hold the iron about 1 to 2 inches above the surface of your pinned blanket.
- Begin to release a generous amount of steam over a small section of the blanket. Allow the steam to penetrate the fibers.
- Hold the steam over this section for about 30 to 60 seconds, letting the heat and moisture work their magic.
- Lift the iron and move to the next section, overlapping slightly with the previously steamed area. Continue this process until the entire blanket has been thoroughly steamed.
-
Cooling and Drying:
- Once a section or the entire blanket has been steamed, put your iron down.
- It's important to wait for the steamed area to cool a little bit before you start touching or adjusting it too much.
- Once cooled slightly, gently check and adjust any corners or edges, making sure the blanket is lying perfectly flat and maintaining its desired shape.
- Allow the blanket to dry completely while it is still pinned in place. This can take anywhere from 12 to 48 hours, depending on the fiber, humidity, and thickness of your blanket. Do not remove the pins until it is bone dry.
Specific Considerations for Different Fiber Types
The type of yarn used in your knitted blanket will influence the best approach to steam blocking.
| Fiber Type | Iron Setting | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Acrylic | Low to Medium Steam | High heat can melt or permanently distort acrylic ("killing" the yarn), removing its elasticity and bounce. Always hover the iron. |
| Wool | Medium to High Steam | Wool responds very well to steam blocking. It can also be wet blocked effectively. |
| Cotton | High Steam | Cotton is durable and generally requires more steam to relax. |
| Blends | Test on Swatch | Always follow the care instructions for the most delicate fiber in the blend. If unsure, test on a small, hidden area or a swatch first. |
Tips for Best Results
- Swatch Test: If you're unsure how your yarn will react, always block a small swatch of the same yarn and stitch pattern first.
- Even Steam: Ensure you're providing consistent steam across the entire blanket for uniform results.
- Patience is Key: Don't rush the drying process. Removing pins too soon can undo your hard work.
- Clean Iron: Use an iron that is clean and free of mineral deposits to avoid staining your blanket.
When to Avoid "Ironing" a Knitted Blanket
Directly pressing a hot iron onto a knitted blanket is almost always discouraged. This can:
- Flatten Stitches: Destroying the natural texture and loft of your knitting.
- Remove Elasticity: Especially damaging to ribbed patterns or items needing stretch.
- Melt Fibers: Acrylic and other synthetic fibers can melt and become stiff or shiny.
For most knitted items, steam blocking or wet blocking is the safest and most effective way to achieve a professional finish.
