Blocking is something I discovered after I put together my first coat.  I was only partially successful in blocking it.  I’m sorry I didn’t take a “before” picture – it was even more wobbly then the “after” picture, if that’s even possible.  Okay – lesson learned.

Essentially, blocking involves stretching and tacking your piece (or pieces) to something rigid, steaming them and then letting them dry so that they will lie flat.  This can be done with acrylic, as well as natural yarns.  I use my iron and make judicious use of the steam button, while holding it about an inch above the crocheted item.  A couple of passes should be sufficient – unless you’re working with cotton.  It reacts just like cotton fabric, so resists this smoothing process somewhat.

This shawl is something I did just because I had an over-abundance of charcoal grey yarn (Lion Brand, Pound of Love).  It’s fairly large and will be finished with long fringe – or maybe tassels – in teal.