Pressing? What’s that? I have an iron, I know how to iron, and I thought that’s what I need to do for fabrics?
Yes, we use the same appliance to iron clothes and press fabrics, but the technique needed is different if we want our sewing projects to be better (not to mention it will make the whole process less stressful for us when it goes nicely our way!). Pressing ensures that your fabric is nice and smooth before you start drafting, cutting and sewing. It also reduces bulk as you piece multiple fabrics together and help to set the stitches.
So how to press fabric before sewing?
Step 1
Lay out the fabric on your ironing board. Some people prefer the fabric washed and dried first; others use the material straightaway. You can layer several other pieces of fabric or clothes under it to create a thicker padding for a smoother effect. If you are working with delicate fabrics like silk or satin, put another layer of fabric on top of it (this is the pressing cloth – it will minimize the possibility of damage from too-high temperature settings).
Step 2
Make sure the temperature is set according to the fabric you are working with. Pressing silk at cotton’s temperature is just asking for unnecessary heartache.
Step 3
Put the iron at one section of the fabric. Leave it for a few seconds, then lift and place it on another section – make sure the folding lines and wrinkles have been smoothed out. Starting from a corner makes it easier for you to track the sections you have pressed.
Step 4
Go over the whole piece section by section, repeating if there are any stubborn lines remaining.
Whenever a pattern also calls for you to press seams after sewing, refer to the pattern instructions to set the seams (either wide open or pressed to one specific side) and follow Steps 2 to 4 to complete.
All done! Your fabric is nicely pressed and ready to go!