Sewing Tips | Why Ironing is Important
Why should you iron your sewing projects? It may seem like an unnecessary step but, the truth is that ironing/pressing is almost as important as sewing an accurate seam. In this installment of our Sewing Tips series, we’re making the case for proper pressing and why this is a step you should never skip!
WHY SHOULD I PRESS MY SEWING PROJECTS?
Pressing preps your fabric for sewing. It should be free of wrinkles before cutting pattern pieces. When a fabric isn’t pressed before cutting, wrinkles may prevent accuracy. Pressing also sets stitches and makes your seams look professional.
PRESSING TOOLS
There are a number of tools, besides the obvious being an iron, that will help level up your pressing. The three listed below are the most commonly recommended and used.
- Pressing Cloth, to protect delicate fabrics and your iron from residue
- Pressing Ham, helpful for pressing darts and curves
- Clapper, helps set folds in heavy fabrics
DARTS AND A PRESSING HAM
Pressing darts is key to creating a curve in the fabric for your body.
Using a ham (or even a rolled towel) mimics the body’s curves. Tailor’s hams have 2 sides, one is typically wool and the other is cotton. Use the wool side for heavier fabric and the cotton side for lighter, more delicate fabrics.
PRESSING A HEM
All hems need to be pressed, but especially curved hems, like the Fringe dress.
Pressing can smooth out any wobbles in the curves.
USING A TAILOR’S CLAPPER FOR HEAVY FABRICS
A tailor’s clapper is another great pressing tool. It is great for heavy fabrics, like denim, canvas, or twill.
After pressing with steam, place the clapper on the fabric.
The clapper and the steam will set the folds in the fabric.
Find more sewing tips and tutorials under our Sewing Tips section here, Check out our Sew Alongs here, and shop our full sewing pattern library here.
