Steam from Irons

[brook]

Even though I've been quilting for years I still have questions. When I iron I don't use steam, but I see that Jenny uses it all the time. Doesn't steam cause fabrics to become out of shape (or wonky) ?

[Bubby]

Re: Steam from Irons

If you are "ironing" your block (back and forth with pressure), yes you can greatly distort a block. Pressing is up and down and a little steam seems to be fine.

[bubba]

Re: Steam from Irons

I use steam to set the stitches in the seam, then open the block out and just press it flat with no steam. That is what we were taught in a quilting class.

[SuzanneOrleansOntario]

Re: Steam from Irons

I also set seams w/o steam. I do steam press the blocks as I go. If a block is not the exact measurements as the pattern, I steam it into submission, also using Best Press keeps it square.

Now when sewing flannel blocks or blocks cut on the bias, that's a different story. I never steam as this will distort your fabric.

[quiltingaway]

Re: Steam from Irons

I also set seams w/o steam. I do steam press the blocks as I go. If a block is not the exact measurements as the pattern, I steam it into submission, also using Best Press keeps it square.

Funny. What you refer to as "steam into submission" I refer to as persuasive pressing.

I do use steam but press rather than iron as Bubby mentions.

[jjkaiser]

Re: Steam from Irons

I steam the daylights out of everything. I have never taken a quilting class but all my quilts have turned out great.

[Bubby]

Re: Steam from Irons

I steam the daylights out of everything. I have never taken a quilting class but all my quilts have turned out great.

You are such an individualist, Jocelyn!!

[Maria Sews]

Re: Steam from Irons

I find my blocks turn out flatter when I steam. I also use Best Press.