velvet

[searose]

Can anyone give me any expert advice on working with stretch velvet ? I plan on making a plain scoop neck top with 3/4 length sleeves. I know you cannot iron it so how do you get the seams and neckline to lie flat? Lynne

[Glennssister]

I'm anxious to hear the ans. I didn't know about not Ironing.

[DorothyL]

I have a pressing cloth that is a mesh made of threads that are fairly thick. It looks a lot like needlepoint canvas that has been worked with and softened. I think I got it at Joann Fabrics a few years ago. It's made for things with a nap.
If you get something like that test it first and you might want to use another press cloth over it, depending on the fiber content of the velvet.
I think you can also get a mat to press velvet on.

[Sewing Lady]

Hey Dorthy,

I have something called a needle board. It's not very big but it was very expensive. It is very stiff not soft and has (like the name) little needles very close together. I think that I ordered a long time ago very nancy's sewing. I have used it many, many times.

Leighanna

[LeapFrog Libby]

I use a very soft thick pile terry towel and use the steam more than the weight of the iron.. Also slight zig zag stitch for all seams helps.. Works for me..

[MartySews2]

When I made my aunt a pair of stretch velvet slacks, I used a thick terry towel under the fabric and a press cloth on top making sure not to have "markings" by barely touching the iron to the seam. I did use a lot of steam. Also, I had to use Seams Great2 (I think it was 3/8 inch) on the seams to keep them from rolling. Hope this helps.
Marty

[searose]

thank you everyone for the good suggestions. i looked up needleboard and found one --but at prices starting at $58. going up to $200.00 , i think i will try the gentle steaming with towel and press cloth and see how it goes. thanks lynne