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.
Log in or become a member to post a comment.
Sign up Log in