Taunton



Yes!
I want expert
sewing tips, fabric
reviews, and more.
Renew subscription
Give a Gift


Sewing Basics
Garment Construction
Design
Fabric
Fitting
Embellishments
Embroidery
Tools & Supplies
Home Decoration
Quilting
Video Tips
Online Extras

Threads eLetter


In the Current Issue
Advertiser Index
Sewing Corner
Magazine Index
Contact the Staff
Author Guidelines
Buy Back Issues
Order Slipcases
Threads eLetter





PRESSING TIP
Weatherproof Fabrics Require Special Pressing Techniques

Water-repellent fabric
Cotton fabric finished to be water-repellent does not require steam. Water will simply bead and roll off the surface of the fabric. And high heat could damage the water-repellent finish.

Rubber-coated and vinyl fabric
Use finger-pressing to open the seam allowances and then glue or stitch them in place. You can use a very low heat setting and an iron shoe to press hems in vinyl fabric.

Synthetic suede and leather
Use a dry iron, a low temperature setting, and an iron shoe for these heat-sensitive fabrics. If the fabric begins to soften and stick to the iron, lower the temperature even more. Glue the seam and hem allowances in place.

Real suede and leather
Use medium to low heat and a press cloth of brown paper or an iron shoe. If working with suede, the color may rub off so also cover the ironing surface with brown paper.

-- Cecilia Podolak


Adapted from "Tips for Better Pressing," Threads magazine, February/March 2003 (#105).

© 2003 The Taunton Press, Inc.





All the Tips      NEXT TIP       


Taunton Home | Books & Videos | Contact Us | Customer Service

Privacy Policy | Copyright Notice | Taunton Guarantee | About Us | Work for Us | Advertise | Press Room


Fine Woodworking | Fine Homebuilding | Fine Cooking | Fine Gardening | Threads | CraftStylish | JUNKMARKET Style