Monica Knits

One of the two steps in creating the Rocking Horse Bib that I have not yet discussed is blocking. Blocking is to knitting as polish is to shoes. In addition to providing the final shaping, it provides a professional finish. I have used both hand-made blocking tools (padded cardboard covered with a pillow case) and purchased tools, of which there are now a great variety, including specialty tools for socks and lace.

The bib was blocked using the June Tailor, "Quilter's Cut 'n Press II" tool after the bib was knitted, but before it was embroidered. This was to ensure that it was square before it was embroidered. It was then blocked once more, in case it was stretched during the embroidery step. The padded, pressing tool was the right size for this project and the printed grid useful for shaping the garment.

When blocking, it is important to use rust free pins. Pin the garment to shape and mist with a sprayer. I use a small watercolorist's sprayer to gently mist and then let the garment rest and dry overnight. There is no need to soak the garment. Misting works for yarns that cannot be steamed as well as those that can.