How to clean a homemade yarn knit or crochet item?

[zoesam]

It's a top, but a homemade yarn knit, like an afghan - that kind of yarn.  Can it be washed or do I need to dry clean?   

Also, if anyone can tell me if it's knit or crochet, I'd appreciate it.  I think it's knit, but I am still unclear on the difference (unless you see it being made lol).  

Thanks in advance! 

[marsha91091]

Probably acrylic so I'd hand wash cold to be safe. (If it wasn't for selling I'd toss all caution to the wind and machine wash.)
It is crochet.
I just know by looking at it but if I had to put into words I'd say that crochet is loopy and knit is more flat.

[sunsetpainter]

Agree with marsha. It's crochet and more than likely acrylic. If it were mine, i would hand wash in cool water with baby shampoo, spin it on delicate cycle in the washer or roll it up in a towel to get as much water out as possible without stretching it, and dry it flat on a towel blocking it to shape.

ETA:  If it were mine TO SELL, I would hand wash in cool water, etc.  I always throw my own afghans in the washer on gentle and into the dryer on medium heat, even the ones my grandma made.  They come out great.

[jandsknight]

I'm guessing crochet from looking at the picture. Crochet is usually more lumpy & knotty. Knit is softer & smoother, although there are some knit stitches that look like crochet. I've knitted more than I've crocheted. When you get past plain knit and purl there are some very complicated stitches that can produce lacy fabric or thick, bumpy fabric.

Synthetics don't require much attention to blocking. They generally hold their shapes when wet, but drying flat is the best to be safe.

[denise15601]

Looks like crochet to me.

My daughter has been picking up vintage afghans at estate sales which sell for $30 ish. I wash in my washer and tumble dry. Never a problem.

My grandmothers and mother crocheted afghans and that is always how I took care of them.

Does anyone remember the crocheted vests that our grandmothers made us in the 1960's? They show up at GW sometimes.

[zoesam]

Thank you everyone, I appreciate it! I actually have quite a few afghans that my mom crocheted in the 70's, I haven't had to wash them though, since they pretty much sit in the closet.

I guess I was wrong about it being a knit, glad I asked you wise ladies! Thanks all!

[val2525]

www.thesprucecrafts.com/differences-between-knitting-and-crochet-4077447



www.darngoodyarn.com/blogs/darn-good-blog/crochet-vs-knitting-what-s-the-difference

[zoesam]

I"ve read a million of those articles val2525 & have several of my own bookmarked, it still never helps when I'm looking at the piece.  I always 2nd guess. 

I did wash the piece & took a chance based on a couple of the comments & machine washed it & it came out fine. 

Also Val, your 2nd link doesn't work, if you care to fix it.  I don't need it.