7 Tips for Finishing a Hand Knit Blanket Like a Pro

Hand knitting a blanket is a labor of love that requires time, patience, and skill. But once you’ve finished knitting all those cozy squares or delicate lace motifs, the work is not quite done. The finishing touches are what take your hand-knit blanket from homemade to professional-looking. Here are seven tips to help you finish your hand-knit blanket like a pro.

1. Steam block for a polished finish.

You’ve put so much effort into creating the perfect stitches, so why not take the time to make them look their best? Steam blocking your hand-knit blanket can help smooth out any uneven tension and give your stitches a polished finish. Using a steam iron or steamer, gently steam over your blanket, being careful not to touch the fabric directly. This process can help relax the fibers and even out any imperfections.

2. Secure loose ends.

One of the most important steps in finishing a hand-knit blanket is securing all the loose ends. No one wants their hard work to unravel after just a few uses! Use a sharp tapestry needle to weave the loose ends into the fabric, making sure to do it discreetly so it doesn’t show on the right side of the blanket. By properly securing your loose ends, you can ensure that your blanket will stay intact for years to come.

3. Add a border for a professional touch.

A neatly done border can elevate the look of your hand-knit blanket and give it a more finished and professional appearance. Whether you choose a simple garter stitch border or a more intricate lace pattern, make sure to carefully pick up the stitches around the edges of your blanket and work the border with the same attention to detail as the rest of your knitting.

4. Block your blanket before adding the border.

Before adding the border, it’s important to block your blanket to ensure that all the stitches are even and the fabric lies flat. Blocking involves wetting the blanket, laying it out on a flat surface, and gently shaping it to the desired measurements. This process can help even out any inconsistencies in tension and make your finished blanket look more polished.

5. Use mattress stitch for invisible seams.

When it comes to joining the squares of your blanket or sewing up any seams, using the mattress stitch can give your project a seamless and professional finish. The mattress stitch creates an almost invisible seam, making it look as if your blanket was knitted in one piece. Take the time to carefully line up your stitches and sew them together using this technique for a flawless finish.

6. Keep the edges neat and tidy.

Creating tidy edges is another key to finishing your hand-knit blanket like a pro. Use a slip or chain stitch along the edge as you go to prevent the selvedge from curling or unravelling. You can also add a few extra stitches at the beginning and end of each row to create a clean and smooth edge that will make your blanket look more professional.

7. Finish with a personalized touch.

Once you’ve perfected the technical aspects of finishing your hand-knit blanket, don’t forget to add a personal touch. Whether it’s a hand-sewn label with your name or initials, a fabric backing for extra warmth, or a special trim, adding a personalized touch will make your blanket truly one-of-a-kind and show off your creativity and craftsmanship.

With these tips in mind, you can take your hand-knit blanket from amateur to professional. So go ahead and put the finishing touches on your creation, and enjoy the satisfaction and warmth that comes from wrapping yourself in a beautifully finished hand-knit blanket.

Blocking Your Finished Blanket

Blocking is an important step in finishing your hand knit blanket. This process involves stretching and shaping the blanket to even out any inconsistencies in the stitchwork and allow the fibers to relax and settle into place. Here are some tips for blocking your finished blanket:

Prepare your blocking area: Choose a clean, flat surface that is large enough to accommodate your blanket. Lay down a towel or blocking mats to protect your surface.
Fill a basin with lukewarm water: Add a small amount of mild soap or wool wash to the water. Submerge your blanket completely and gently squeeze to ensure it is thoroughly saturated. Let it soak for 15-20 minutes.
Drain and squeeze out the excess water: Remove the blanket from the basin and gently squeeze it to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the blanket as this can damage the fibers.
Lay out the blanket: Lay the blanket flat on your blocking surface, gently shaping it to your desired dimensions. Use a tape measure or blocking pins to ensure straight edges and even dimensions.
Pin the blanket in place: Starting at one corner, use T-pins or blocking wires to secure the edges of the blanket. Space the pins or wires evenly and ensure they are securely anchored into the blocking surface.
Let the blanket dry: Allow the blanket to air dry completely, which may take 24-48 hours depending on the humidity and thickness of the blanket. Avoid exposing the blanket to direct sunlight, as this can cause fading.
Remove the pins or wires: Once the blanket is fully dry, carefully remove the blocking pins or wires. The blanket should retain its stretched shape and have a more polished appearance.

Blocking can help transform a finished blanket from a lumpy and uneven piece to a beautifully finished project. It is worth taking the time to properly block your blanket to ensure it looks its best and maintains its shape over time.

Sewing in Loose Ends

When you finish knitting a blanket, one of the final steps is to sew in any loose ends. Sewing in loose ends is important for both the appearance and durability of your blanket. Here are some tips to help you sew in loose ends like a pro:

Use a tapestry needle: A tapestry needle is the best tool for sewing in loose ends. It has a blunt tip that won’t split your yarn and a large eye that can accommodate most yarn thicknesses.
Weave in ends as you go: To make the finishing process easier, try to weave in your ends as you knit. This means you won’t be left with a bunch of loose ends to deal with at the end.
Weave in ends along the edges: When sewing in your ends, try to weave them in along the edges of your blanket. This will make them less visible and help secure them in place.
Weave in ends in opposite directions: If you have multiple ends to sew in, it’s a good idea to weave them in opposite directions. This will prevent them from all coming undone if one end happens to get pulled.
Weave in ends for at least 2 inches: To ensure your ends don’t come undone, be sure to weave them in for at least 2 inches. This will provide a secure anchor for your yarn.
Trim excess yarn: Once you’ve securely woven in your ends, use a pair of sharp scissors to trim any excess yarn. Be careful not to cut any of the stitches or the woven-in ends.
Block your blanket: After sewing in all the loose ends, it’s a good idea to block your blanket. Blocking helps even out the stitches and gives your blanket a more professional finish.

By following these tips, you can sew in your loose ends like a pro and ensure that your hand-knit blanket looks polished and well-finished.

Adding a Beautiful Border

Once you have finished knitting your blanket, adding a border can give it a polished and professional look. Here are some tips to help you add a beautiful border to your hand-knit blanket:

Choose a complimentary color: Select a yarn color that complements the colors in your blanket to create a cohesive look.
Decide on the width: Determine how wide you want your border to be. This will depend on personal preference and the overall size of your blanket.
Pick a stitch pattern: Select a stitch pattern that suits the style of your blanket. You can choose a simple garter stitch, a lacy pattern, or any other design that you like.
Knit a swatch: Before starting the border, knit a small swatch using your chosen stitch pattern and yarn to determine the gauge. This will ensure that the border will match the rest of the blanket.
Measure and mark: Use a tape measure and stitch markers to measure and mark the positions for the border. This will help you evenly distribute the stitches for a neat and balanced look.
Pick up stitches: Using a smaller-sized needle, pick up stitches along the edge of your blanket. Make sure to pick up an even number of stitches to maintain symmetry.
Knit the border: Once you have picked up all the stitches, begin knitting the border using your chosen stitch pattern. Continue until you have reached the desired width.
Bind off: When the border is complete, bind off all the stitches and weave in any loose ends.

Adding a beautiful border can elevate your hand-knit blanket to a whole new level. Experiment with different colors and stitch patterns to create a unique and stunning finished product.

Incorporating Different Stitch Patterns

One way to add interest and variety to your hand-knit blanket is to incorporate different stitch patterns. This can give your blanket a unique and dynamic look, making it a true work of art. Here are some tips for incorporating different stitch patterns into your blanket:

Choose complementary stitch patterns: When selecting different stitch patterns, choose ones that complement each other. Consider the overall look and feel you want for your blanket, and select stitch patterns that will work well together.
Create a stitch pattern border: One way to incorporate different stitch patterns is to create a border around your blanket using a contrasting stitch pattern. This can frame your blanket and add visual interest.
Combine stitch patterns within the blanket: Another way to incorporate different stitch patterns is to combine them within the body of your blanket. This can create interesting textures and patterns throughout.
Use stitch pattern transitions: To create a smooth transition between different stitch patterns, consider using a transitional row or a row of garter stitch. This can help blend the different stitch patterns seamlessly.
Add stitch pattern accents: You can also add small sections of a different stitch pattern as accents within your main stitch pattern. This can create eye-catching focal points in your blanket.
Experiment with stitch pattern placement: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the placement of different stitch patterns. Try different combinations and see what works best for your blanket.
Create a stitch pattern sampler: If you’re unsure about which stitch patterns to incorporate, you can create a stitch pattern sampler. This involves knitting small swatches in different stitch patterns and arranging them to see how they look together.

By incorporating different stitch patterns into your hand-knit blanket, you can create a truly unique and beautiful piece. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different stitch patterns to achieve the look you desire.

Making Perfectly Straight Edges

One of the key elements in finishing a hand knit blanket like a pro is achieving perfectly straight edges. Here are some tips to help you create beautifully straight edges:

Use stitch markers: Place stitch markers at the beginning and end of each row to help you keep track of your stitches and ensure that you are not accidentally adding or dropping stitches.
Count your stitches: Regularly count your stitches to make sure that you have the correct number. If you notice a discrepancy, you can fix it immediately before it becomes a bigger problem.
Block your work: Before finishing your blanket, block your work to even out any uneven stitches and create a more polished look. This will help straighten out the edges and give a more professional finish to your project.
Use a selvage stitch: Adding a selvage stitch to your blanket can help create a more defined edge. This is often done by slipping the first stitch of each row purlwise and knitting the last stitch.
Use a knitting needle two sizes smaller: When knitting the first and last few stitches of each row, switch to a knitting needle two sizes smaller than the one you are using for the main part of the blanket. This will help create tighter stitches and prevent any loose edges.
Practice tension control: It’s important to maintain consistent tension throughout your knitting to ensure straight edges. Practice controlling your tension and adjust it as needed to achieve the desired result.
Use a stitch pattern that naturally creates straight edges: Some stitch patterns naturally create straight edges, such as garter stitch or ribbing. Consider using a stitch pattern that will help you achieve straight edges without much effort.

By following these tips, you can create a hand knit blanket with perfectly straight edges that will look professional and polished. Remember to take your time and pay attention to detail, and your finished blanket will be a work of art.

Choosing the Right Yarn and Needles

When starting a knitting project, it’s important to choose the right yarn and needles for the finished product you have in mind. Here are some factors to consider:

Fiber content: Different yarns are made from different fibers, such as wool, cotton, acrylic, or blends. Consider the qualities you want in your finished blanket, such as warmth, softness, or easy care. You can also experiment with different fiber blends for unique textures.
Weight: Yarn comes in different weights, from super fine to super bulky. The weight of the yarn you choose will determine the thickness and drape of the finished blanket. Consider the season you plan to use the blanket in and the desired level of warmth.
Gauge: Gauge refers to the number of stitches and rows per inch in a piece of knitting. It’s important to match the gauge specified in the pattern to ensure that your finished blanket will turn out the right size. If your gauge is too loose, try smaller needles; if it’s too tight, try larger needles.

Once you’ve chosen the right yarn, you’ll need to select the appropriate needles. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Needle material: Needles can be made from various materials, such as metal, wood, or plastic. Each material has its own feel and advantages. Metal needles are durable and have a slick surface that makes knitting fast, while wooden needles provide warmth and a smoother grip.
Needle size: The size of the needles you choose will depend on the yarn weight and desired gauge. Most patterns will specify a recommended needle size. If you’re not sure, start with a mid-range needle size and adjust as needed.

By choosing the right yarn and needles for your project, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and professional-looking hand knit blanket.

Care and Maintenance for your Finished Blanket

After you finish knitting your blanket, it’s important to take care of it properly to ensure its longevity and maintain its appearance. Here are some tips for caring for and maintaining your finished hand knit blanket:

Read the care instructions: Before you start washing or storing your blanket, check the yarn label for any specific care instructions. Different yarns may require different cleaning methods.
Gently hand wash: Hand washing is usually the safest and gentlest method for cleaning your hand knit blanket. Use lukewarm water and a mild detergent or wool wash. Avoid twisting or wringing the blanket to prevent stretching or damaging the fibers.
Avoid machine washing: Machine washing can cause the blanket to stretch, felt, or lose its shape. If machine washing is necessary, use a delicate cycle and place the blanket in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection.
Dry flat: After washing, reshape the blanket and lay it flat to dry. This helps prevent stretching or distortion. Avoid exposing the blanket to direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause fading or damage.
Store properly: When not in use, store your blanket in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture and mildew. Folding the blanket loosely or rolling it up can help prevent creases.
Avoid sharp objects: Keep your hand knit blanket away from sharp objects that can snag or pull the fibers. It’s best to use it in a safe and protected environment.
Occasional airing: To refresh and remove any odors, you can occasionally air your blanket by hanging it outside on a dry day. Just make sure to avoid direct sunlight if your blanket is brightly colored.

By following these care and maintenance tips, you can keep your hand knit blanket in excellent condition for years to come. The extra effort will be worth it when you cozy up with your beautiful, well-preserved blanket.

FAQ:

What is blocking and why is it important?

Blocking is a process that involves wetting the knitted fabric and carefully stretching it to the desired shape and size. It is important because it helps even out the stitches, relaxes the fibers, and gives the finished piece a more professional and polished look.

How can adding a border enhance the appearance of a hand knit blanket?

Adding a border to a hand knit blanket can enhance its appearance by giving it a more finished and polished look. A border can also help stabilize the edges of the blanket and prevent them from curling. You can choose a simple garter stitch or stockinette stitch border, or get creative and add a lace or cable pattern.

What are the benefits of attaching a label to a hand knit blanket?

Attaching a label to a hand knit blanket has several benefits. It adds a personal touch and lets people know that the blanket was hand made with care. It also helps identify the maker of the blanket, which can be especially useful if the blanket is being gifted or passed down through generations.

Can I steam or iron a hand knit blanket?

Whether or not you can steam or iron a hand knit blanket depends on the fiber it is made of. If the blanket is made of a fiber that can withstand heat, such as wool, you can steam or iron it to smooth out any wrinkles and give it a polished look. However, if the blanket is made of a delicate fiber like silk or alpaca, it is best to avoid heat and instead gently steam or block it.

End your hand knit blanket like a pro