I often get questions about blocking needlepoint. If you send your work to a finisher, they will block it. If you stitch small pieces on a frame, you may not need to block. For the rest of us and for our pieces, they will need blocking.
It used to be that blocking tools were easy to find, but these days I don’t know of any out there. Instead we have to make our own. This video, from Sarah Beecham in the UK, shows how to block your canvas step-by-step. I found it interesting for several reasons.
First, she dry blocks, starting with a dry canvas. Second, she only uses steam when needed to relax the canvas. Third, and this is a controversial point for many, she uses walpaper paste on the back to stabilize the canvas.
I do have a few cautions though. Depending on your threads, some threads may bleed even with just using steam. Her method works best fot square and rectangular items. Using this metod for other shapes will be more difficult. Finally, wallpaper paste ma attract insects depending on what it is made of.
About Janet M Perry
Janet Perry is the Internet's leading authority on needlepoint. She designs, teaches and writes, getting raves from her fans for her innovative techniques, extensive knowledge and generous teaching style. A leading writer of stitch guides, she blogs here and lives on an island in the northeast corner of the SF Bay with her family
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