I blocked the sweater according to the directions given in the book (and, since I didn't have the book or copies of those pages, so very generously shared with me by a number of people). The pieces were pinned to the dimensions given and then covered with a damp towel. I had to peek occasionally, but otherwise it was left 'til the towel was dry. I used freshly washed towels and it took about 24 hours to dry.