Ironing Techniques for Garment Sewing

The iron plays a huge role in the finished product of a garment. Between pressing and ironing (which) are different techniques used on fabrics, your garment will look better and remain in pristine condition when special care is taken. Learn the difference between the two techniques and how to get the most out of your iron and fabric.

Pressing vs. Ironing

Pressing is when an iron is lifted and lowered onto fabric to set seams or other tasks.

Ironing is done when an iron is moved from left to right in long motions to remove wrinkles.

Simply put, pressing is done during garment construction to achieve a good end product like ironing is done after construction to maintain a good product.

Pressing and Ironing Tools

• Iron/Ironing board
• Seam roll
• Point presser and Seam stick
• Clapper
• Pressing cloths 

Pressing Tips

• Iron seams as you sew for a professional, crisp finish.
• Pre-Wash fabric with wrinkles before sewing
• Use the correct setting and test iron using scrap fabric and/or a pressing cloth before pressing the actual fabric. Use steam on fabrics with set-in wrinkles. A wet pressing cloth will help release wrinkles from naturally woven fabrics like cotton.
• For delicate fabric like velvet, fur, and suede, press using a padded surface on the backside of the fabric with a press cloth/ low temp to avoid damaging the fabric. Use a Teflon pressing sheet for sensitive fabrics and interfacing.
• Press the seam line first, then set the seam by pressing it
• Finger press if a deep press isn’t needed.
• Use small pressing rolls to press curved areas like darts.
• Trim, grade, or clip before pressing 
• Remove pins before pressing to avoid melting pins or leaving marks on the fabric created by the iron.
• Keep the bottom of the iron clean with wipes and iron cleaner to avoid unwanted transferring to the fabric and wash pressing clothes regularly.

This knowledge can take your garment from home-sewn to professional when used appropriately. What did you learn from this post? Leave a comment below with your thoughts!