Mastering the Finishing Touches: How to Complete Your Finger Knit Blanket

Cozy andadatably unique, finger knit blankets have been making waves in the knitting scene. Once you've mastered the technique, you're left with a beautiful, textured fabric perfect for throws or baby blankets. But the big question remains: how do you finish off a finger knit blanket?

Fretting over that last stretch of knitting is normal. After all, you want your blanket to look as beautiful from afar as it feels under your touch. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you finish your finger knit blanket like a pro.

Preparing Your Blanket for Finishing

The first step in finishing your blanket is to assess its condition. Gently wash your blanket in lukewarm water with a small amount of mild soap. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to air dry. This helps to preshrink your blanket and gives you a better idea of its final size.

Before you start weaving in ends or trimming, make sure your blanket lies flat and is free of any wrinkles. You can use a steam iron or an iron set to medium heat to help smooth out any kinks.

Weaving In Ends

Weaving in ends is the backbone of neat finishing. Start by snipping your working yarn close to the edge of your blanket. Using a tapestry needle, sow the tail under two or three loops on the wrong side of your work. Pull the tail through to the right side, creating a small knot.

Using the tail, weave in and out of the loops across the edge of your blanket. Try to space your stitches evenly to keep the edge looking neat. Once you've woven in a few inches, cut the tail short and snip off any excess. Repeat this process for all loose ends.

Trimming Your Edges

Depending on your pattern, you might need to trim the edges of your blanket for a clean, even look. Use sharp embroidery scissors to carefully snip any long loops or uneven edges. Be mindful not to cut into your knitting.

To achieve a neat, rounded edge, you can use a technique called "grafting." This involves knitting the two edges together to create a seamless join. It requires a bit of patience, but the result is a professional finish that hides any raw edges.

Adding A Border (Optional)

If you want to add a decorative touch to your blanket, consider adding a border. Crocheted or knitted borders can add a touch of color, complexity, and texture. They also provide a visually appealing final touch to seal the edges.

Choose a border that complements your blanket's design. A simple crocheted edge can work well with a baby blanket, while an intricate cable border might suit a larger throw blanket better.

Crocheted Edge

trabajando with a smaller hook than the one you used for your blanket, crochet along the edge of your blanket. Start by chaining a foundation row that's slightly shorter than your blanket's edge. Then, work in half-double or double crochet stitches along the edge, increasing or decreasing your stitches to accommodate the width of your blanket.

Once you've reached the end of your row, fasten off and weave in your ends. For a neater finish, you can also graft the final row of crochet stitches to the first chain in your foundation row.

Knit Border

Depending on your blanket's size and design, you might want to add a knitted border instead. Use your leftover yarn and a set of knitting needles to work a simple rib, stockinette, or lace border around the edges of your blanket.

To begin, pick up and knit stitches along the edge of your blanket. Knit your border in the pattern of your choice, adjusting your tension to match that of your blanket. Once you've reached the end, bind off loosely and weave in your ends.

Care and Cleaning

Congratulations! You've just finished your finger knit blanket. Now it's time to take care of it so it can provide you with years of comfort and joy.

Wash your blanket gently in cool or lukewarm water with a mild soap. Avoid hot water, which can cause shrinkage and felting. Rinse thoroughly and allow your blanket to air dry flat. Never tumble dry your blanket, as the heat can damage the fibers.

Preventive Care

To keep your blanket looking its best, always shake it out before folding it to remove any crumbs or debris. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources that could cause fading or damage.

Occasional spot cleaning with a mild soap and a soft brush can help maintain the surface of your blanket. Just be sure to rinse any detergent residue completely to prevent it from attracts dirt.

Now that you've finished your finger knit blanket, it's time to enjoy its warmth and beauty. Whether you're wrapping yourself in its cozy embrace or gifting it to a loved one, your blanket is a testament to your skill and creativity. Happy knitting!