Basic tutorial in blocking using swatch model

After you wash you shawl, towel dry it by folding the shawl in a towel and press/squeeze (I usually jump on it. It's fun).
For wool, silk, linen, you stop at pinning down the shawls and air dry it. For cotton, viscose, acrylics, you have to continue to steam them and air dry. The longer you keep on the blocking mat the better. I usually leave it for 12-24 hours (tropical country). You may need longer if you are staying in colder and humid climate.