How to Make a Pressing Cloth

How to Make a Pressing Cloth: Expert Tips

Pressing both fabric and seams are generally a part of any sewing project, no matter what you are making. While some fabrics are known to take to pressing better than others, one thing that can help when pressing almost any type of fabric is a pressing cloth. ZJ shares the brand and type of pressing cloth that she likes to use and shows how it can be found. She explains that pressing cloths can be found in a variety of different sizes and that the size of cloth you choose to use can depend on the project you are making and the seam and/or fabric you are pressing.

She then explains what the cloth is made of and demonstrates how easy it is to use. She also explains the different types of project techniques and fabrics that can benefit from using a pressing cloth. Some of these techniques include things like applique where any kind of fusible may be used to hold layers of fabric together. This cloth protects the iron from potential reside that could stick to the iron. These cloths can also help protect fabric, whether it is a fabric that has a pile to it that can be damaged with direct pressing or it’s a thicker fabric where seam allowances can cause fabric indentations when pressed.

Once you’ve learned all about the pressing cloth, check out 5 tools every sewer needs to see if there are additional helpful sewing tools that you can add to your sewing space.

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5 Responses to “How to Make a Pressing Cloth”

Mabel December 5th, 2022

I have used 100% cotton muslin as a pressing cloth. this has not dye to transfer color.
Mariette December 5th, 2022

Nice video---a GREAT press cloth is a cloth diaper. Yes, there are still cloth diapers out there. I have been using them for over 45 years. After depleting my supply of diapers from my own children, I would go to consignment and thrift stores to find them. I have found brand new cloth diapers at thrift stores for $2 a package of a dozen! Also, a tip I learned from classes I took years ago---wet 1/2 of the cloth and wring it out then fold it to the dry side a couple of times. Wring it again and you then transfer the wet to the dry and have a damp cloth. Keep that in a plastic bag when you're working. I make up 5 or 6 of these when I am going to sew all day on a big project and then I always have a nice damp press cloth to use.
Patricia Hale December 5th, 2022

Super helpful! Thanks!!
Chandra Derrickson August 3rd, 2020

In this video in the background as decoration, there is a wire looking small dress form. I would like to know what it is called and where I may purchase one?
Lynne Clark July 4th, 2020

Did you know that if you saturate the cloth with vinegar, you can press in permanent creases? I learned that years ago when making plants and back when you wanted a crease down the front of the pant leg.