Blocking Mats
Blocking mats are foam mats you pin knitted fabric to during blocking, allowing the garment to dry in the correct shape and size.
Explanation
Blocking mats are dense foam boards, often puzzle-piece shaped so they can be assembled to the desired size, used as a surface when blocking knitted fabric. The dampened or freshly washed garment is pinned to the mats with rust-proof blocking pins to the correct shape and measurements, then left to dry undisturbed. Mats protect the surface underneath from moisture and make it easier to achieve straight lines and precise measurements than blocking directly on a towel or carpet.
Also known as: Blocking boards
What they do
Blocking mats are foam tiles that lock together into whatever surface you need. They take pins without damage, let moisture through, and let you measure directly on the mat since most are printed with a grid.
Alternatives exist — a towel on the floor, a spare bed — but without a firm surface that accepts pins, blocking shawls and anything else that needs stretching becomes awkward.
Shawls versus garments
Shawls need pins or blocking wires to stretch the points out. Sweaters and body garments rarely need pins at all: you shape the piece to its measurements and leave it.
For repeated projects it pays to note which mat layout you used. Blocking a second sweater in the same size then takes minutes rather than a fresh round of measuring and pinning.
Common mistakes
- Blocking on a surface that traps moisture, leaving the underside wet.
- Using pins that rust and mark light-colored yarn.
Keywords
- blocking mats
- puzzle mats
- blocking boards
Frequently asked questions
Do I need blocking mats?
For shawls and lace they are close to essential. For sweaters a towel on a flat surface will do.
Can I use children’s foam puzzle mats?
Yes, they are effectively the same product. Just check they do not release dye when wet.
How many mats do I need?
Nine tiles of 12 inches each covers most sweaters laid flat. A large lace shawl can need twice that, so buy in sets you can extend later.