Choosing a Great Iron

Choosing the Right Iron for Sewing and Quilting

Sewing and quilting projects require a lot of pressing, so having the right iron is very important to achieving a professional finish. A good iron will make your work faster, easier and more efficient. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best and most reliable quilting irons?

Here are some factors to consider when selecting an iron:

1. Heat Settings: A good iron should have a range of heat settings so you can adjust the temperature to suit different fabrics. A temperature control dial or digital display makes it easy to choose the right heat setting.
2. Steam Control: A good iron should have a steam control feature. This will help you control the amount of steam you need to get rid of wrinkles and creases in your fabric. Some sewists choose not to use steam at all. Many believe that never using the water chamber of the iron prolongs the life of the iron. Instead, they use starch, starch alternative, or simply a spray bottle of water.
3. Size and Weight: Consider the size and weight of the iron. An iron that is too heavy or bulky can be difficult to maneuver, especially when working on large projects. A lightweight iron might be more manageable for some sewists.
4. Soleplate Material: The soleplate is the bottom part of the iron that comes into contact with the fabric. The best materials for soleplates are ceramic, stainless steel or titanium. These materials are smooth, durable and conduct heat evenly, which helps prevent scorching or damage to your fabric.
5. Auto-Shutoff Feature: This feature is a fun little safety feature (obviously invented by a genius!) that automatically turns off the iron after a set amount of time if it is left unattended. This is especially important for those who frequently forget to turn off their iron. (Who can relate?)
6. Price: Irons range in price from under $20 to over $200. Determine how much you are willing to spend and look for an iron with the features you need in your price range.

Do you love your iron?

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, having the right iron can make all the difference in your projects. If you’re shopping for a new iron, Missouri Star has a great selection. (Click here.) Some sewists claim that a great iron is more important than a great sewing machine. What do you think? We would love to hear what kind of iron you have and why you love it! Click below to add a comment!