What Is a Cotton Press Cloth?
Cotton press cloths are a common tool used in sewing and garment construction and are useful to have in your sewing room or ironing area. The press cloth comes in handy when your closet contains clothing that needs regular pressing. A press cloth will protect and extend the life of clothing and other fabric items. Quality press cloths can be purchased or it is simple to make your own out of common household items.
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The Facts
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A cotton press cloth is made from 100 percent high-count cotton cloth. The cloth is a natural fiber and moisture absorbent. The size is generally the 24 inches by 14 inches, allowing for effective covering of the ironing board. In additional to white cotton cloths, see-through cloths are also available. This type aids in seeing the item that is being pressed.
Function
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A cotton press cloth is placed between the item being pressed and the iron. The cloth prevents fabric and fiber damage when heavy pressing is required for pleats, darts, buttonholes, hems or tucks. Due to high absorbency of the cotton, additional moisture can be added to the cloth when heavy steaming is needed. You can use a fabric sprayer or sponge to add moisture to the cloth while pressing. Heavyweight pressing cloths do not work well for pressing pleats, darts and tucks. They are more useful for pressing synthetic fabrics that are delicate.
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Benefits
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Cotton pressing cloths prevent scorching or burning of the fabric being ironed. Delicate fabrics benefit from using a pressing cloth as they are sensitive to heat. Press cloths also prevent shine on fabric. Synthetic fabrics pressed with a hot iron can sometimes produce a shiny look.
Warning
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Do not use press cloths made from synthetic fabrics or fabrics that are not natural fibers. Natural fibers are less likely to scorch and insulate heat. Pressing cloths need to be laundered regularly as they can discolor from the heat or collect minerals from the moisture used.
How to Make
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Cotton pressing cloths can be purchased from most hobby and sewing store retailers. It is easy to make your own from natural fiber fabrics. Cotton T-shirts that are 100 percent cotton and clean can be cut into a lightweight pressing cloth. Cotton sheets or cotton towels can also be used. In some cases, a more heavy-duty cloth is needed. You can also use 100 percent wool cloth. Some canvas is also 100 percent cotton and makes a nice heavyweight pressing cloth.
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