Knitting for over 50 years, and this is what I recommend: garment should be laid out and measured dry, if it is the size you want. Then, saturate it with COLD water. Squeeze water out gently, do not wring or twist!! Lay the garment out according to the pre-wash measurements. (if you think the dye will bleed, be sure to put blotting material (paper towels, washcloth) between the layers.) If you have a net "sweater dryer’ gadget that keeps the item off a solid surface, that is the best way. Lay the item out, and check for bumps and wiggles. I lay mine out on thick cotton towels which I change out every few hours. There should be no need to pin or put weights on it if you check it and make adjustments frequenty. By all means, never!!! apply heat, as it will cause the wool fibers to shrink and bunch up. If the yarns sieze up, there is no good way to stretch them out. Also, depending upon the dyes, it is best to keep the item indoors for drying. Make sure it is completely dry before storing away. I have sweaters that are decades old in perfect condition.