How to Iron a Karate Uniform

Ironing a karate uniform should be done on a regular basis--preferably after each wash. Another name for a karate uniform is a "gi." A gi is made up of a pair of pants and a shirt that ties on the inside and outside. Depending on the karate school, a gi may have printing or patches with the school's logo or honors and ranks that the student has achieved.

Things You'll Need

• Iron
• Ironing board
• Spray bottle with water
• Hanger

Instructions

1. Heat up the iron according to its directions. Some irons require a small amount of water to create the steam that presses the fabric flat. Wait approximately two minutes for the iron to heat up to the proper temperature. Make sure to turn the setting on the iron to the proper clothing type. Karate uniforms can be made of different fabrics; check the tag for the right setting.

2. Fold out the ironing board and place the pants of the karate uniform on it. One leg should lay flat, taking up most of the length of the ironing board. The other pants leg can hang loosely while you iron the first leg of the karate uniform.

3. Place the heated iron to the fabric of the karate uniform's pants leg. Rub the iron gently over the fabric in a smooth motion from one end to the other. For tough wrinkles move the iron in a small circular motion. If wrinkles are really tough to get out, spray a mist of water on the fabric, then iron over the area again. After the first pants leg is ironed switch the pant legs and repeat this process.

4. Hang the pants on a hanger either folded over the center or so that the legs hang straight. Karate uniform pants can be placed in such a way that the legs hang because the pants have an elastic waist that can stretch over the sides of a hanger.

5. Lay the shirt on the ironing board starting with one of the sleeves of the karate uniform. Smooth out any wrinkles in the sleeves with the hot iron in the same manner used for the pants. Iron the karate uniform shirt in sections until you get to the other sleeve. If wrinkles are tough remember to spray a light mist of water on them before ironing over the area. Hang the ironed karate shirt over the pants that are already on the hanger.

Tips & Warnings

• Spray water on the karate uniform's tough wrinkles to make them easier to press out.

• Do not spray the water directly on the iron. Remember to turn the iron off and cool it before putting it away.