How to Steam Iron Wrinkles From Velvet Fabric
Velvet. While the word usually brings to mind English royalty, velvet's earliest origins are unclear. It is believed to have been brought to Europe by Arab merchants. The rich fabric was originally made from silk, although it can now be made from various types of threads. Characterized by a soft top surface made of thread loops that form a thick pile, the back of the material is smooth to the touch. Most velvet fabrics must be dry-cleaned, and because of its unique weave, cannot be touched with an iron. Seamstresses recommend a "needleboard," a special pin-covered surface for ironing velvet so that the pile doesn't crush. But for those of us who need to take the wrinkles out of a Christmas dress once a year, the simplest method is to use a steam iron on the garment. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Steam Ironing a Velvet Garment
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Fill your steam iron with water and preheat while you prepare your garment.
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Hang your garment on a hanger from a shower curtain rod. This allows you to access all sides of the garment without having to continually move it around on a surface.
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3
Start at the top of the garment and hold the steam iron next to the fabric, but without directly touching it. If your iron requires pushing a button to release the steam, do so, moving the iron in gentle circles next to the fabric.
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Move from top to bottom of the garment, and then repeat on the other side and on the sleeves.
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Tips & Warnings
Before you get started, make sure the iron cord is long enough to reach the garment when it is hanging; you may need an extension cord.
Remember not to press the iron flat against your garment. Crushing the pile on velvet will give it a shiny look.
