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3. Reduces the Need for Rework
The more you press as you sew, the less you’ll have to redo later. By taking a moment to press after each seam, you avoid the risk of having to re-sew or adjust later because you didn’t catch issues while the fabric was still manageable. Pressing as you go helps you spot problems early and address them, saving you time and frustration in the long run.
4. Improves Fabric Texture and Appearance
Certain fabrics, like cotton or linen, tend to wrinkle easily. By pressing these fabrics regularly, you can restore their smoothness, helping them hold their shape throughout the sewing process. This is especially useful when working with delicate or lightweight fabrics, which can lose their shape and texture if not properly pressed.
How to Press Properly
To get the best results, here are some pressing tips from the seamstress with over sixty years of experience:
- Use the Right Temperature: Make sure your iron is set to the appropriate heat for your fabric. Check the care label on your fabric for temperature guidelines, and always test on a scrap piece before pressing the entire project.
- Use Steam Wisely: Steam can be incredibly helpful when pressing, as it helps relax the fibers and smooth out wrinkles more effectively. However, be mindful of how much steam you’re using, especially with delicate fabrics like silk. You don’t want to over-saturate the fabric.
- Press, Don’t Iron: Always lift and press the iron onto the fabric rather than sliding it across. This prevents stretching and distorting the fabric, ensuring a smoother, more professional finish.
- Use a Pressing Cloth: If you’re working with delicate fabrics that could be damaged by direct heat, use a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric. This protects the fabric from scorch marks and allows you to press with confidence.
- Press Seams Open: For many projects, especially those involving thick fabrics, pressing seams open can prevent bulk and create a cleaner finish. It also ensures that your seams lie flat, making it easier to sew them into the rest of the garment or project.
Pressing Tools Every Seamstress Should Have
To make your pressing process even easier, here are some tools that the seasoned seamstress swears by:
- Ironing Board: Invest in a sturdy ironing board with a smooth surface that’s large enough for your sewing projects.
- Steam Iron: A quality steam iron allows you to press with precision and gives your fabric a smooth finish.
- Tailor’s Ham and Sleeve Roll: These tools help you press curves, like sleeves or darts, without flattening the shape.
- Clapper: A clapper is a tool that helps set seams by pressing them into place with a bit of extra pressure. It works wonders when pressing thick fabrics or heavy seams.
Conclusion
The secret shared by this seamstress with sixty years of experience is simple yet incredibly powerful: pressing as you go. By pressing each seam and section of fabric as you sew, you’ll create smoother seams, a cleaner finish, and a more professional-looking final product. Whether you’re making clothes, quilts, or other fabric projects, this small step can make a world of difference. So, next time you sit down to sew, remember this invaluable advice, and take a few extra moments to press your fabric—it’s a habit that will pay off in the long run!
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