Steam Blocking
Steam blocking uses a steam iron or garment steamer to set the shape of a finished piece without fully wetting it. Faster than wet blocking and useful for fibres that should not be wet (silk, some superwash blends).
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Method
Pin the piece flat to a blocking mat. Hold a steam iron 2–5 cm above the fabric (do not touch the iron to the fabric). Steam thoroughly for 30–60 seconds per section. Let the piece cool and dry completely before unpinning.
When to use
Touch-up blocking between washes. Quick blocking of small accessories. Blocking silk or silk-blend fabrics that should not be wetted heavily. Setting the shape of seams after sewing.
In partnership Tools and supplies that make this technique easier.
Limitations
Less effective than wet blocking for opening lace patterns or transforming gauge. The shape memory from steam blocking is shorter-lived than from wet blocking.
Cautions
Never let the iron touch the fabric — synthetic fibres melt and natural fibres can scorch. Use a press cloth (a thin cotton cloth) for added safety. Test on a swatch first.
Abbreviation reference
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| BO | bind off |
Tips
- Hold the iron 2–5 cm above the fabric — never touch.
- Use steam blocking for touch-ups; use wet blocking for full first blocks.
- Test on a swatch before steaming a finished garment.
In depth
Steam blocking is a faster alternative to wet blocking for many situations. The combination of speed and gentleness makes it especially useful for delicate fibres and for routine touch-ups between washes.