An iron is an essential tool for quilters, but which one to buy can be a big conundrum. In this article I share what you need to look for and what to avoid when purchasing an iron for quilting.
How to Choose an Iron
Start With What you Have
I never want new quilters to feel that they need to purchase a lot of tools prior to getting started. While an iron is a must have for quilting, please start with what you already have. If you already own an iron, start with it. If not, keep reading for my tips on how to choose an iron.
Types of Irons
The common household iron is one of the types of irons you can use in quilting. It is what most quilters begin with, however, there are other options on the market. Let’s look at them.
Ironing Stations
Ironing stations include an iron and a tank you fill with water. The iron is attached by a cord and it rests on top of the tank. An ironing station combines the iron and tank so you don’t need to refill your iron nearly as much. The other advantage is ironing stations get very hot, compared to most household irons.
Gravity Fed Irons
A gravity fed iron is somewhat similar to an ironing station, but the water is held in a container hanging above, usually from the ceiling. Like an ironing station, a gravity fed iron gets very hot and produces wonderful steam, if you want it. This is the type of iron you would see at most dry cleaners.
Mini/Project Irons
On the smaller side, a mini or project iron is very helpful for small blocks or small pieces. I use my Oliso M3 Project Iron all the time, much more often than I use my full size Oliso iron.
Top Things to Consider
Now that you know about the types of irons you can purchase, these are the things to consider in your choice.
How Much Does it Weigh
While it may seem like a good idea that the iron you choose should be lightweight, that’s not the best idea. Your iron needs to have some weight to it in order to flatten your seams. My Oliso TG1600 Pro weighs 3.7 lbs. A heavy iron will make pressing easier.
How Hot Does it Get
I am very particular about this subject and that is how hot does the iron get. I have had a number of irons over the years and I won’t buy any iron that is less than 1600 Watts, and I prefer 1800 Watts if I can get it. If the iron doesn’t get hot enough, you will have to press harder to achieve the same result.
Corded vs. Cordless
When I say a cordless iron, I am referring to the Panasonic Freestyle Cordless Iron. I had one for many years, but found it beyond annoying. It didn’t stay hot for long enough, the football shape is just weird, and the base you had to rest it in wasn’t the greatest. They are good irons, but expensive and lightweight compared to conventional corded irons.
Auto Shut Off
I am a huge fan of this feature. I have heard many stories of quilters forgetting their iron was plugged in and setting their house on fire.
The longer the auto shut off period, the better. Oliso’s auto shut off is 30 minutes which is wonderful. Many auto shut off periods are 6-10 minutes which isn’t long enough, IMHO.
Cords
Also, pay attention to the length of cord on the iron you are considering. I prefer at least a 6’ cord, but there are longer and shorter cords available on many irons.
Extra Tools you Can Use to Make Pressing Easier
A couple of extra tools you can use to make pressing easier. The first is a wool pressing mat. Well worth it if you pay the money for a good quality one like Gypsy Quilter. I have had my wool mats for around 10 years and they’re still going strong. I advise you about paying for a good quality mat because I have heard many people complain about their mats smelling like a damn sheep. I have never experienced that with my Gypsy Quilter wool mats.
Also, a tailor’s clapper can make your pressing much easier. Simply press your seam as usual, then place the tailor’s clapper over the seam and press down. The clapper will flatten your seam further than just pressing alone.
My Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoyed How to Choose an Iron. As I said from the beginning, start with what you have. If you don’t already have an iron, I hope my article can help you make the best decision for you.
Some News
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