Why Pressing Accessories Are a Must-Have for Every Sewist

No matter what kind of sewing you love—whether it’s quilting, garment making, embroidery, or alterations—there’s one step that should never be skipped: pressing. Pressing isn’t just ironing. It’s a crucial process that sets your stitches, shapes your fabric, and gives your final project that polished, professional finish. And to do it right, you’ll need the right pressing accessories.

Why Pressing Matters

Pressing helps seams lay flat, curves form correctly, and blocks align perfectly. It can mean the difference between a homemade look and a handcrafted masterpiece. Unlike ironing, which involves sliding the iron across the fabric, pressing is about applying heat, steam, and sometimes pressure—without distorting the fabric.

Essential Pressing Accessories

1. Pressing Cloths
   A pressing cloth is a must-have to protect delicate fabrics. It acts as a barrier between your iron and the fabric, preventing scorch marks, shine, and heat damage. Use it when pressing embroidery, silks, and synthetics, or anytime you're unsure how the fabric will react to heat.

2. Wool Pressing Mats
   Wool mats are a favorite among quilters. The dense wool retains heat and helps press both sides of your fabric at once. This results in flatter seams and crisper blocks. Bonus: the natural fibers grip the fabric slightly, preventing shifting while you press.

3. Mini Irons
   Perfect for detail work, mini irons are great when space is tight or when pressing small seams, doll clothes, applique, or embroidery. Their size gives you better control, especially when working in tight areas or around curves.

4. Mist Spray Bottles
   Water is a powerful tool in pressing. A fine mist spray bottle lets you lightly dampen fabric to help relax fibers and set seams. It’s especially helpful when working with stubborn creases or thick seams.

5. Tailor’s Hams & Wool Pressing Hams
   Shaping fabric is much easier with a tailor’s ham. It mimics body curves, allowing you to press darts, princess seams, collars, and sleeve caps without flattening them. Wool hams retain heat and moisture, improving your results.

6. Sleeve Boards
   When it comes to pressing sleeves, pant legs, or small areas of garments, a sleeve board is a game-changer. It slides right into narrow spaces and helps you press without leaving unwanted creases.

A Pressed Project is a Polished Project

The right pressing tools don’t just make your sewing look better—they make the process easier and more enjoyable. Whether you're quilting precise seams or tailoring a jacket, pressing throughout your project will always lead to better results.

So if pressing has felt like a chore, try upgrading your tools. With the right accessories, pressing becomes less of a hassle and more of a creative step in your sewing journey.