Pressing & Finishing
Steam Iron
An iron does three things at once: it heats the fibre so it becomes plastic, it adds moisture to relax it, and it presses the new shape in as it cools. That is why pressing is not the same as ironing. Ironing moves the iron across the cloth to smooth it; pressing sets the iron down, holds it, and lets the fabric take the shape before you move on.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Power | 1800 - 2600 W |
| Steam rate | 30 - 120 g per minute |
| Water tank | 300 - 400 ml |
| Soleplate | Ceramic, stainless or titanium |
| Auto shut-off | 8 - 10 minutes flat, 30 s upright |
| Temperature | Nylon to linen, dial or digital |
Technical parameters
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Steam | Burst and continuous |
| Spray | For stubborn creases |
| Vertical steam | For hanging garments |
| Anti-scale | Cartridge or self-clean |
| Weight | 1.2 - 1.8 kg |
| Cord | 2 - 3 m, swivel at the base |
Safety
An iron is hot enough to burn skin and to scorch or melt fabric, and it produces steam that scalds. Stand it upright whenever it is not in your hand, keep the cord away from the soleplate, and never leave it unattended with children or pets in the room. Let it cool fully before you empty or store it.
What it is for
The single most important tool in the room after the machine. Heat, moisture and pressure set the shape of a garment.
Compatible fabrics
Compatible stitches
Working notes
- Press each seam as you sew it, not all of them at the end.
- Match the temperature to the fibre; test on a scrap of the actual fabric.
- Use a pressing cloth over wool and anything with a nap or a sheen.
- Let the fabric cool flat before you move it, or the shape will not hold.
Related tools
Tailor's Ham
A firmly stuffed curved cushion for pressing seams that are not flat, like darts, sleeve heads and hips.
Clapper
A block of hardwood you press down on a steamed seam to trap the heat and flatten it. The most underrated tool on the bench.
Pressing Cloth
A thin cotton or silk cloth laid between the iron and the garment to protect the fibre from scorching and shine.