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Sewing with Silk: Pressing Silk

Video: Threads magazine

Pressing is an essential aspect of successfully sewing with any fabric. Expert Katrina Walker offers handy tips for pressing silk, in this episode of the Sewing with Silk video series.

Pressing tools

When you press silk fabrics over a form, such as a ham or tailor board, be sure to use soft forms. If you press on a hard surface, as in a wooden tailor board, the area that is pressed may create shine along a seamline.

Softer shapes such as traditional hams or seam rolls enable you to press a sharp crease without creating impressions from seam allowances.

If you choose to use a press cloth, opt for silk organza.

Iron setting and moisture

Use the “wool” setting on the iron. (Katrina believes that the “silk” setting is better for synthetics.) Applying moisture can create a nicer press, too, but test the fabric first with a mist of water. Once you’re sure the water or steam won’t leave spots, go ahead and press with a steam iron or with a light spritz of water.

 

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About This Video Series

In this 20-part workshop, textile expert Katrina Walker introduces us to silk fabrics. She covers the gamut from silkworm to crafting beautiful silk garments, so you never need to fear working with this luxury material. Episode topics include sericulture: how silkworms are cultivated, and how the silk filaments are harvested from cocoons. You'll learn about the many categories of woven silk fabrics, including crepes, satins, and jacquards. Katrina also offers advice for matching your fabric…

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