Block

Blocking is a term used to shape the knitted fabric. There are several methods of blocking, steam, soaking in the sink and using the washing machine.

In this case, I used the washing machine. 

I fill the machine with cold water and add just a drop of shampoo. I really mean a drop. 

Turn the sweater inside out and put it in a pillowcase. You are putting it in a pillowcase to control the sleeves from getting all wrapped up and stretched during agitation.

Put the sweater in the machine and push it down with you hands to be sure that you have it submerged. Keep punching it down until you know that it is wet and heavy and will be under the water.

Turn the machine on the gentlest cycle. Allow the sweater to go through the wash, rinse and partial spin. Stop the machine during the spin if you can. You don't want the sweater spun dry. You just want the excess moisture removed.

Remove the pillowcase from the machine and lay on a large flat surface. Have the schematic of your pattern and a tape measure.

Remove the sweater from the pillowcase in a bunch. Don't pick up the sweater by an end and pull it out. You don't want to stretch it by accident.

Lay the sweater flat on the surface with the front facing you. Pat into its general shape. Don't worry about the sleeves at the moment.

Measure the sweater from the shoulder to the bottom. Stretch, pat, pound it into the right length. Now do the same with the width. Be sure that the neck is centered. If you have any stitches that are out of shape, give them a tug and pat back into place.

At this point, the sweater is like moldable clay. If you used a natural fiber, you will be able to get every stitch in place.

Once you have finished with the width, measure the length again and make necessary adjustments.

At this point, I am totally in love with Alfa. Every stitch goes right into place. 

Now measure the sleeves from the shoulder to the wrist. Pull or scrunch until you have the correct measurement. Be sure that you have the center of the sleeve in line with the shoulder seam. Pat the sleeve and gently lay across the body. Repeat with the other sleeve.

Leave the sweater to set overnight. 

On the next day, gently lift the sweater, dry the flat surface and lay the sweater face down. Pat the back. 

It should be dry by evening!