What can you tell me about blocking?

[Perogi]

I hear lots about blocking and now it has something to do with how your knitting dries (I think?) but I don't know what it's for. So can someone fill me in? - What is blocking? How do you do it? When should you do it? Why do you do it? Thanks! :pink

[hunnybumm]

:eyes

[pamelamama]

Blocking is when you wet or steam your work to get it shaped the way you want it. :D

[pamelamama]

the fabulously helpful KNITTY:

http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter02/FEATdiyknitter.html

[Lauira]

Never done this...maybe someday I will try! My knitting always manages to be the right shape when I finish. :lol: :lol:

[hunnybumm]

Ahh, I have never needed to block either, but the only things I have really made are soakers, shorts and pants that are knit in the round. It's good to know for future reference.

[Perogi]

So would this work for helping longies to find their shape again after getting stretched out from regular wear and tear? I'm noticing it particulary with the Paton's Classic merino wool.