Generally speaking, blocking is the method used to finish all knitted pieces by wetting them before shaping and allowing them to dry.

It refers to the wetting (either by washing, spraying or steaming) and pinning out to "set" it into the desired final shape and measurements as it dries - this is often critical if you want a well-fitted garment.

The choice of technique for your blocking will depend on the yarn you have used, the stitches/patterns and the final use of your knitwear. We will discuss this in more detail in the later sections but rest assured that blocking can improve the finish of absolutely anything you knit.