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I often see questions about whether to block a knit item or not and wanted to share some photos about why (as a lace knitter) I think it’s not only a good idea, but essential.

If your project doesn’t look like much when you’ve finished binding off, a quick soak and a stretch can work wonders.

The bandana-shaped shawl in the photos was knit in fingering-weight 100 percent merino. The pattern is one of mine on Ravelry (paid), Vineyard Rain:
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/vineyard-rain

Before (above)

During (above)

After (above)

Before I got involved with lace knitting I never blocked any of my finished work. The thought of it was intimidating, I didn’t want to take the extra time involved, and I was sure I wouldn’t be able to do it successfully.

Now I block just about everything, including sample swatches, and find the result a much more professional, finished appearance.

Happy Knitting!
MikeH