We're nearing the end of the Grouse Creek Knit-A-Long. Some of you have already finished your sweaters, but I wanted to do one last blog post about finishing a sweater.
Binding off
Because the sweater is done top down, you need to bind off at the cuffs and bottom ribbing on the body. I highly recommend doing a stretchy bind off like this one demonstrated by Very Pink Knits:
The reason we want stretchy bind offs is because the ribbing stretches. If the bind off doesn't stretch like the ribbing does, you won't be able to get your hand through your sleeve.
Blocking
Once you get your sweater off the needles and all the ends tucked in, you'll definitely want to block it. Blocking a sweater like this will even out all the colourwork stitches and help you finalize the shape of the sweater.
Blocking isn't a difficult process. You want to soak the sweater in some Soak and water for at least 15 minutes, then squeeze out as much of the water as you can. Stretch out your sweater to desired shape and lengths on old towels or blocking mats, and pin down if needed. Once it's dry, you're ready to enjoy it!
Supplies you may need for this:
- Soak Soak – Sweet Yarns
- Tpins T Pins – Sweet Yarns
- Knit Blockers Knit Blockers – Sweet Yarns
- Dye Catcher Sheets Dye Catcher – Sweet Yarns
Congratulations on all your hard work! I can't wait to see all the completed sweaters. We're going to have to plan for a group picture this Fall.