How to Block a Crochet Afghan Pattern

As you're finishing up your crochet afghan pattern, you might be noticing that some of the ends look a little shaky or uneven, despite your careful and strict stitch counting. Don't worry, it's totally normal! There are different crochet techniques you can use to keep your edges straight as you work, but you can also just block your finished work when you're all done. Blocking is usually the last, finishing step after many stitching hours. Some crocheters don't bother while others swear by it - whether you block your finished piece is really up to you, but it does set your project and stitches in place, in just the right way.

If you're using any special stitches or cables, blocking can help set them off better or even show them off more beautifully. Plus, if you're working on a granny square crochet afghan pattern, it's easier to join and seam all the pieces together if they're blocked. If you're working on a full-sized, side-to-side afghan, it's very likely that your tension will vary throughout, and blocking will absolutely help with that and minimize that loosely crocheted parts.

There are three different ways to block items, traditionally: wet, dry and cold. Which method you choose to utilize depends on the type of project you've worked on and the yarn content, as certain yarn fibers can't handle high heat.

Before you begin blocking your afghan, be sure to have all the necessary materials and space ready: if you're working on smaller pieces, like granny squares, you'll need a blocking board, rustproof pins, a steamer or steam iron, spray bottle and your yarn labels. For a larger afghan, a bed, a large and well-padded table or even a carpeted floor (covered with a sheet) would work.