A case for blocking

We all (edit: not all, knitters are not a monolith, but I think these things being annoying are tropes in knitting spaces) accept that blocking and weaving in ends are generally annoying and inconvenient. I don't think I have met many people who truly LOVE the process of blocking--it can be very tedious.

That being said, I would like to share the number one reason I think blocking is the GOAT: Your knitting feels so much softer and more luxurious when it is finished drying after blocking.

Yes, the shape can be improved or manipulated in nice ways. Yes, it helps your stitches open up. Yes, it is good to clean your item after touching every inch of yarn you used to make it with your grubby little hands. All of those things are benefits, but my favorite thing about blocking and the thing that has made me into someone who consistently blocks my projects is how freaking nice they feel once they are dry. Doesn't matter if it's a traditional soak and lay flat vs steam blocking, the relaxing of the stitches and blooming of the yarn always results in an even nicer product than I had before, regardless of the yarn.

Anyway, no judgement for people who don't want to block their work (I acknowledge and accept you). HOWEVER, if you are impatient like me, know that blocking has consistently worked out to be worth it from a sensory perspective. Plus, there is no shame in hitting your piece with a hair dryer if you decide you can't just lay it flat forever. Once it's dry enough, you can feel self-satisfied for doing something so responsible (another benefit) and squish your knitting to your hearts content.