You can press a velvet blazer by ironing it, but you must use a specific technique to protect the fabric's delicate nap.
Safely Ironing a Velvet Blazer
Ironing velvet directly is not recommended as it can crush or damage the plush surface known as the "nap." However, with the right method, you can effectively press wrinkles out of a velvet blazer.
Essential Technique Using a Velvet Press Cloth
The key to pressing velvet safely is to avoid direct contact between the iron and the blazer's nap. Based on the reference provided, a simple and effective method uses a scrap of the same fabric:
- Preparation: Lay the velvet blazer flat on your ironing surface, inside out (so you are working on the back of the fabric).
- Use a Press Cloth: Get a scrap piece of velvet. This will act as your protective layer.
- Position the Cloth: Place the velvet scrap right side facing the right side of the blazer fabric you need to press. This means the plush sides of both the scrap and the blazer are touching each other.
- Press from the Back: Apply the iron to the back of the blazer fabric (the side that does not have the nap exposed).
- Ironing Motion: Press gently in sections. Avoid sliding the iron across the fabric, which can still distort the nap underneath the press cloth. Lift and move the iron rather than pushing it.
- Check Temperature: Always use a low to medium heat setting on your iron suitable for delicate fabrics like velvet. Test on an inconspicuous area first if possible.
Important Considerations:
- Ensure the iron never directly touches the velvet nap of the blazer.
- Using a scrap of velvet as a press cloth is a simple solution that avoids the need for specialized equipment like a needle board.
By following these steps, you can press your velvet blazer without damaging its luxurious texture.
