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Unit 5 Sewing Techniques
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
• Transparent (clear) elastic is a synthetic product that stretches three to
four times its length with complete recovery to its original size. It is sewn
directly onto the fabric and is a good choice for swimwear and lingerie.
Interfacings
Interfacing is a fabric used under the outer fabric to prevent stretching and
provide shape to a garment. It also adds strength to necklines, buttonholes,
and front closings. It gives shape to collars, cuffs, waistbands, and pockets.
When choosing interfacing, consider the weight of your fabric. As a rule,
choose interfacing the same weight or a little lighter weight than your fabric.
Make sure your interfacing has the same care instructions as the other fabric
you are using. Interfacings come in both woven and nonwoven types. They
are either sewn into the garment or have a fusible backing. Fusible interfacings
bond to another fabric when pressed with
an iron.
Pressing Equipment
As you construct a quality garment, it
is important to press with an iron as you
sew. Irons vary in features and cost. A dry
iron can be used successfully if you use a
damp pressing cloth to supply steam when
needed. A steam iron is more convenient
and produces a lot of steam. The moisture,
not the heat, shapes the garment.
To prevent iron shine and possible
water drops on the fabric, cover your gar-
ment with a press cloth before you press.
You can use an absorbent, light- to medium-
weight cotton or linen fabric for a press
cloth. A press cloth allows you to remove
wrinkles without making the fabric sur-
face shiny. To provide more steam, simply
dampen the press cloth.
A sleeve board is handy for pressing
small details. It looks like a small iron-
ing board. A seam roll is a long, tubular
cushion that allows you to press seams
open without leaving marks from the seam
allowances. Curved seams and darts can be
easily pressed with a pressing ham (a fi rm,
round cushion), 24-10. The garment lies
fl at against its rounded shape and curved
edges.
An ironing board should be sturdy, level, and adjustable for different
heights. A smooth, absorbent padding with a tight-fi tting cover is best. A cot-
ton cover absorbs moisture. Keep the cover smooth and clean.
June Tailor, Inc.
24-10 A small
pressing mitt helps
you get good results
when pressing curved
areas and seams.