The Art of Ironing: A Timeless Skill

Ironing is still a part of our household routine. It's a tradition that I cherish. In this video, I share how my dear mom taught me this essential skill. During our college days and throughout the years of my husband's career, he always dressed well in an ironed shirt. It was only during my busiest years as a shop owner that he occasionally took his shirts to be laundered and heavily starched.

The Seasonal Clothes Switcheroo

Currently, I’m immersed in what I call the seasonal "Clothes Switcheroo." This process involves transitioning from fall and winter attire to spring and summer outfits while refreshing our wardrobe for warmer months. As I iron a few select shirts for my husband this year, I remembered that I had recorded this instructional video a long time ago. It felt like the right moment to revive it from the depths of my blog records.

I often wish that when men stand in front of groups, they'd at least present themselves in an ironed shirt. This is just my humble (grey-haired) opinion!

Choosing the Right Iron

Sadly, the Oliso iron with 'feet' is no longer available. My current iron of choice is a Black & Decker, which I purchased from Amazon. I particularly like the pointed design of this iron. It does consume a lot of water, though, and it’s designed to work well with tap water.

For anyone interested in upgrading their ironing experience, you can check out this Black & Decker Iron.

Essential Supplies for Sewing and Ironing

If you sew and use fusibles of any type, you need a few handy supplies. Here are my essentials:

• Iron Clean: Keeping your iron clean is crucial for optimal performance. I recommend using Iron Clean. This cleaner works effectively to remove any residue or buildup.

  
  

• Paper Towels: Having some doubled-up paper towels nearby is also very useful. They can be used to absorb excess water or to protect your fabrics from direct heat.

  
  

Tips for Successful Ironing

Ironing can sometimes feel like a daunting task, but with the right techniques, it can be quick and easy. Here are some tips that have worked for our family over the years:

1. Invest in Quality Tools

A good iron can make a world of difference. While I currently use a Black & Decker, it's essential to find one that suits your needs. Look for features like steam options, a comfortable grip, and a pointed tip for precision.

2. Use the Right Settings

Always read the labels on your clothes before ironing. Different fabrics require different heat settings. For instance, use a lower setting for silk and a higher one for cotton.

3. Keep it Steamy

Make sure to add enough water to your iron for steam. This helps to remove wrinkles more efficiently. If you're using fusibles while sewing, steam can also help in adhering the pieces together.

4. Iron in Order

When ironing a shirt, start with the collar and cuffs. Then move to the sleeves and finish with the body. This method ensures that you don't accidentally re-wrinkle areas you've already pressed.

5. Hang Immediately

Once you’ve finished ironing, hang your clothes promptly. This helps maintain their smooth appearance and prevents new wrinkles from forming.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! At least one tried-and-true method that has worked for our family over the years is ironing shirts. Learning this art has been beneficial not just for our family's appearance, but it's also a useful skill that can enhance anyone's daily routine. I hope these tips and my personal experiences inspire you to embrace the art of ironing, whether for yourself or your loved ones. Happy ironing!