Non-Traditional Ways to Iron Oilcloth

Oilcloth is a PVC product so you never want to take an iron to it. Instead we have to get tricky when sewing seams that we would normally press. I have 3 simple methods for you to try; finger pressing, book pressing and crease pressing.

Book Pressing is very easy, but it can cost you time. It's best for projects that need a really crisp edge or for really thick seams. Simply lay a stack of books on top of your seam(s) for a few hours or overnight. Gravity and the weight of the books flatten out your oilcloth so you can stitch with ease.

This next one is just a good old finger press. All you do is rub your finger, thumb or the palm across the seam that you need to be flatten and tamed. Tip: I always press both my seams off to one side when working with oilcloth, it's just gives you a nicer finish. Trust me trying to keep open seams flat on oilcloth is a losing battle.


The last method I have for you is the crease press. I do this when I work with the 1" oilcloth trim that I used on the floor mat in At Home with Modern June. All you have to do is fold your trim in half and rub the oilcloth trim along the edge of your table. This just creates enough of a crease down the center so you can sew fast and free!

I hope this helps you in your addiction to oilcloth!

XOXOX,
Kelly

OCA Sewing Tip #5---Pressing Oilcloth

We are well over due for a new oilcloth sewing tip, aren't we? Remember back a few months ago when we chatted about how to press oilcloth, well here is yet another technique that is very handy when you really need a crisp finish to an oilcloth project.

For a really good press ask Martha to lend a hand, my Martha Stewart Craft Book collection helps me ever time. Yesterday I needed to "press" a few dozen oilcloth dish gloves for a Modern June wholesale order so I grabbed a handful of my books and a nice big tray to do the job.

When you are faced with fluffy folds just neatly stack your project under the pile of large books.

Before


After

Since I had a few dozen cuffs to contend with I made two stacks and then placed a wide tray under the books, then topped it with a heavy suitcase. Now just leave it there overnight and in the morning you will have a beautifully pressed project.

Now, go get crafty!