I decided some time ago to never use water in my irons anymore. Now that I have two good misting bottles - one large at home and a smaller one for traveling - I find that the mist from the bottle is enough. Another benefit -- the misting bottles don't have to be refilled as often as the tiny iron reservoirs do. Just my preference. YMMV.
I stopped putting water in my iron as well; had issues with color bleeding and water stains. Not fun! The mist bottle is great! This is my first time viewing this channel. So happy you have the walking foot; it's a game changer for sure. Thinking about a wool mat. Thanks for the reviews, and happy sewing!
I remember my mum sprinkling water from a bowl over the ironing items, rolled them up n stacked into a basket ready for ironing. I have never used water in my irons after my first one leaked horrible black goop onto a favourite pair of pants in the 80s. Water spray bottle for me - always. And my irons last until they burn out. Have not had many irons over the years at all.
@@SC-hj3hr oh my goodness I had forgot about that, my mom and grandma both did the same thing and so did the neighbor lady. Wash clothes on Monday and do the toning on Tuesday
2 things - It’s best not to use steam on a wool mat. The steam will cause the wool to begin to smell & May also stain the mat. #2- Your wool mat will sweat through using the hot iron, so DON’T place it on top of your cutting mat, & if you lay it on a wooden table, be careful that it doesn’t impact the finish of the wood. I used a plastic TV tray recently when doing some small piecing & layer a small hand towel under the mat to absorb the moisture.
It only smells when the wool mat is new and the smell wears off. As for the stains, it's typical. But, if you're worried, you can cover the mat with canvas or a thick cotton. I tried covering mine, but didn't like it. I only have one small stain on my mat and it's because I have spilled water on my mat not from steam
I made the mistake of placing my wool pressing pad on top of my cutting mat. The steam went through the pad and warped my cutting mat. So now I just place the pad on a wooden T.V. tray next to my machine. Love it.
I WISH the Wool pressing mats came with instructions because I wasn't thinking about the problems of steam getting thru the mat to damage the surface of my wooden table. I know, most of you would probably think about that but I did not. My table is very old and I need a new one but I would have been really upset if it was a new table. I think the Wool Mat should come with an instruction booklet for dummies like myself. ;-)
I’m 74 and have sewn just about all of my life. In the last few months I have purchased each of the items you showed today and I also have the same brand sewing machine that you have! I also didn’t know what a walking foot was. It definitely makes a world of difference in my quilting. I also love the mini iron, (not the same brand). Like you, I like to use the mini iron and my wool pressing mat for the smaller things and use the mister instead of putting water in the iron. I use my wool mat on my cutting table, not on my cutting mat, since the cutting mat is just to cut on . I don’t use water in any of my irons because the mister works so much better and I don’t have the hassle of filling and emptying the irons when I start and finish for the day. I enjoyed your video very much!
Yes, me too! I had to buy a new cutting mat because I warped mine. However, I love my wool mat. Yes, it initially smells, but it does go away. The smell didn't bother me. The wool mat is great for blocking your knit/crochet projects. My daughter uses it for blocking often. Also, if you need to use pins while ironing, this mat is great. In fact, I was thinking about getting a second mat.
My wool mat is a western saddle blanket that cost $39 from State Line Tack. It was so big that I cut it in thirds. I have a pad I made with a layer of batting and InsulBrite under the mat on a wood tv tray. Works great for having at my side while sewing.
If you are using some kind of table below your wool mat be careful using steam cuz it goes thru the wool and will make the table damp and will ruin it. I pressed on a sheet of freezer paper to the under side of the mat. It will keep the steam from ruining your table or mat.
I love my silicone iron rest. I can rest the iron on it and just slide it over to use it. I don’t have to pick it up and turn the iron upright. It saves wear and tear on my wrists. With arthritis it really helps.
8:42 I used to hate ironing. Then I got into sewing. And I weirdly began liking ironing. Somehow it became incredibly satisfying to make those fabric seams behave.
I was fortunate many years ago to buy a Pfaff with an on board walking foot. It was the only mfg at the time with an on board foot. It absolutely is needed for straight line quilting.
I was gifted an almost 40 year old Janome. It was originally my maternal grandmother’s and my mother just handed it down to me. I’m getting into quilting now and I’m obsessed! I ordered a walking foot through a sewing machine / vacuum restoring shop and I’m super excited to use it. Right now, I’m working on 9 quilts for my wedding party. I’m on quilt top 3/9 and I’m hoping the walking foot comes in soon so I have plenty of practice before I need to start batting and binding.
Three extra tips to complement this video: 1. Pressing ham. You can DIY or purchase a pressing ham for pressing shoulders and other curves. 2. Pressing pads (wool or other) are super easy to DIY. There are several how-to videos here on UA-cam. 3. Instead of buying another silicone pad for your tiny iron, if you're not going to use the large one, why not cut it to fit the tiny iron?
Just a helpful word to the wise, I have both the mat and the mini iron placed on my cutting board which I think is where yours is, and the heat did go thru and buckle my cutting board so I recommend having some protective underneath or working in a different place.
I had a Pfaff which has one built in so I’ve never used a walking foot. That machine was terrific, especially since I was sewing mostly home dec during those years and was using thick decorator fabrics. Now I own a Janome M7 which is a state of the art and can go through numerous layers with ease then immediately jump down to a very flimsy fabric. This machine is spectacular. For a quilter, it’s a dream. But an expensive one, so for most sewers, a walking foot is necessary and you certainly get your money’s worth!
Note for the wise: Don't steam on top of the wool mat on top of a cutting mat! I made that mistake and ruined my cutting mat - it warped it terribly because the steam was going through the wool mat and I didn't realize it! 😑
Yes, I would like to receive video’s of you sewing/quilting mug rugs, hot mats, fast & easy oven mitts & any other projects you care to share. Thank you for inspiring other’s to eventually take-up the stress-free hobby of quilting.
I do use steam on my wool mat, but I find the steam does come through on the other side. So I do not put it on my cutting mat. I have a small tv table at my side that I put my mat on. Make sure it has a finish that you do mind getting the steam on. I use a wood tray at first and it turned the finish white from the steam. I do not notice any smell coming from the mat.
The entire point of using a wool substrate for pressing is to help accommodate steam - whether from a steam iron, a mister bottle or a dauber. It is necessary to take into account that repeated usage on any surface will most likely cause damage to that surface. As for staining, a wool mat is a utilitarian object, just like the cover on an ironing board. Eventually both will discolor and may need replacement. Usage is tremendously more important than aesthetics with pressing equipment. I bought an old wool blanket - complete with a few moth holes - for $3 at a thrift store. Washed in warm water and tumbled dry to felt. Lined both my ironing board and a 12x16 oak cutting board with 4 layers of the blanket. Made duck cloth covers for both. Attached rubber feet from Home Depot to the bottom of the cutting board to use at my sewing table. The wool pad is a sewing trend, but used properly can ease a sewing task.
Oliso just recommends that you use spring water in your iron which is what I’ve been doing because we have really hard water here where I live. Anyway, just wanted to mention that to some of you be careful how much heat you’re putting on that wool mat while it’s sitting on your cutting mat, that could be an expensive and sad thing to find out later.
girl I always get the generic they work well as long as you know what shank to get for your machine and they are soooooo much cheaper. I have some that came with expensive machines and some I have ordered and you honestly cannot tell the difference.
I have the Oliso Pro and the mini. Both state that the iron is designed to be used with regular tap water. There is a recommendation if your water is over 12 grams of hardness. I have used tap water in mine for several years now with no issue.Love both of them. Also, agree with another commenter that your cutting mat can warp from the steam heat. There is a tutorial for making a portable ironing board that would probably work for you and keep the hear away from the cutting mat. It uses a piece of plywood. A lot of good help out there!😁 I love all your new gadgets and hope you enjoy them for years to come.
@@PinCutSew - I use distilled water too in my mini iron. It's cheap, takes a while to go through and I don't have to go anywhere to refill. I don't see the point of using regular tap water on a regular basis, even if theoretically it's fine. If anything any build up will happen much faster in a mini iron.
I use a mix of 50/50 distilled and reg. Tap water. I don’t recommend Oliso iron in that mine died just 2 weeks after warranty. Never felt gave out steam or got as hot as my Rowenta.
I put about 1 in cardboard insert from something else it was to be a recycle cardboard but that keeps the heat from going to my cutting mat or the wood on my sewing machine table. I feel in love with my baby iron.
I’m not sure why, but my wool mat purchased from Amazon (a no named brand) started putting black spots on my fabric after time. This was also mentioned by another Podcaster. So be careful! I quit using mine. I love my misting bottle too because I never put water in my irons, they have all leaked over time, even my regular size Oliso. 😢
Thank you so much I really really appreciate your time and effort to bring us all these amazing things for sewing 🧵 with. Yes that iron and felt square is really really cute and adorable too. Please stay safe and well too xxx Mags
I love love love my wool mat! I have had it for several months now and I cannot believe I hesitated to purchase one! So worth the $$. I also love my mini iron! Another product I wish I had not hesitated to purchase! :) I have a spray bottle. I don't use it too much as my mini iron has steam and so far does all that I need it to do. My walking foot....love when quilting!
You have a nice size wool mat. Mine is square, I like your rectangular one. I do the same thing you are doing, keeping one beside me so I don't have to keep getting up and down. I moved my big iron over, the small one I have was super hot!! if like mine it can warp your cutting board. You may want to put a board under it!
My MW iron is over 40 years old and I have never put water in it. I’ve repaired the cord twice. A misting bottle would be a welcome addition. A mini iron would also be nice-my birthday is a couple months away!
The first time I met a walking foot was back in the mid 1970s. I worked in a leather shop and we needed a walking foot so as not to leave unpleasant marks on the leather. This was for a commercial machine, and they may not have been available for domestic machines at that time. I would love a wool pad, but I don't have one yet.
I bought a dritz brand silicone mat for my steam fast mini iorn. I don’t love the mini Olso iorn I find it uncomfortable to hold yours seems easy to hold. I like the price point of the steam fast ones.
When I bought my Elna in 1985 I was sold a walking foot which would not work on the elna no matter how I connected it. So it was put on the printers tray on display unused. Eventually in 2014 I inherited a pfaff 919 hobbymatic and I managed to fit the walking foot and it worked!!!!!!! 30 years later!
I love my mini irons when I was quilting. I've used them exclusively with regular garment sewing. After using mini ones for years it's very wierd using a regular one that I recently bought to replace a mini one that finally went to iron heaven. There's several I've had over the years because whenever Id taken one to visit my (iron-less) adult kids they insisted I leave it behind. Honestly why are vacuum cleaners and irons always the last thing kids on their own purchase). I find they get hotter than regular irons, have better directional steam (well they are smaller sooooo there's that) and they are just more ergonomic. The only downside is the small water chamber. But that wool pad is definitely something I've never seen before I'll have to put that on my list for sure. I used to use just a piece of quilt batting in a small pillow case next to my sewing machine when I was piecing. Maybe someday I'll actually remember to look for some silk organza also for the ultimate pressing cloth too. Thanks for the video, your feed just showed up on my screen. It's always good to find a new UA-camr 🙂💜🇨🇦
Those are all my favorites! Esp the wool mat. I use my walking foot when making burp cloths…game changer for sure. We’re in the process of gutting our 1950s home. One outlet per room😮 Crazy!! That won’t work in a craft room 😅
We are too! Our new house was built in 1958! It was last renovated about 30 years ago so definitely needs some updates including more designated outlets.
I will check out this mini iron. I had one before that was worthless that I got from bed bath & beyond it was kind of weird looking I don't remember the brand but it didn't seem worth beans. I took it back and got a refund. It would be nice to have a small steam iron that worked well a little projects. Have a super powerful rowenta steam generating iron which is fantastic except that it's heavy and sometimes it would be nice to use a lighter weight iron.
My irons don't steam well with our city water so I buy spring water to use. One of my irons specifically stated to NOT use distilled water. And, I always empty my iron when I'm finished with it. Leaving water in the iron may cause some corrosion which leads to leaking and spitting out black gunk. My mother preferred a non-steam iron which is now in my sewing room. It's one heavy iron.
I'm a stander to. I can't move around enough sitting. My arms and hands are much fast standing. I feel cramped sitting. Sometimes I will get tired and move back to my sewing table but not often.
Please consider not putting water in your irons. That blue water sprayer your mom bought you is what you should use instead. Irons work better for much longer when they don’t have to contend with mineral buildup and rust. And you will benefit with no stains on your fabrics from rust and minerals. Win win
I was ironing on my mat on top of my cutting mat and I warped my cutting mat. The heat and steam seeped through to the cutting mat and ruined that end of my cutting mat. I hope you don't have that problem.
I have a spray bottle not a misting one, the wool mat lives in my ironing board, I've got walking foot or feet for more than one machine on my bucket list, I quilt small projects fine without one. I would like anyone to explain how to install a walking foot on any brand machine, including Brother and Singer.
The secret to installing the walking foot: there’s a moveable lever on the right hand side of it that needs to rest ON TOP of the screw that holds your needle in place.
Some machines’ walking feet are timed so that the bottom and top feed dogs hit at the same time. Janome accufeed and Bernina machines have this feature, for sure. A step up from a generic walking foot.
The iron manufacturers say not to use distilled water but to use tap or spring water in them. I ruined several using distilled because i thought i knew best. I now use bottled spring water.
Be aware with some wool pressing mats if they get wet they may emit some sheep odors. It depends on the brand and how extensively the wool was cleaned prior to creating the mat.
I haven’t used water in any of my irons for many, many years - pain in the *** to do it - but my mim always insisted I empty the water out after finishing ironing % which I always did. Nit removing the water can cause the iron to rust inside and that may cause spurts of rust - not nice. I used to use a plain old spray bottle but these new misters are fabulous! They actually came from the beauty supply store - beauticians use them. I have quite a few with quilting stuff on them but the generic ones from beauty supply stores are just as good, but not as cute!!😄😄
@@PinCutSew without all the really cute designs, the ones from the beauty supply are a whole bunch cheaper!!! I actually keep one of my sewing logo ones in the bathroom when my bangs go crazy some days! These mister bottles are fabulous!
Two questions. One. Not the mini iron but the other iron you were using, I noticed it was cordless. could you tell me what brand that is? Question 2. since you can't backstitch with a walking foot, how are you supposed to make it so your stitches don't come out? I have used a walking foot several times but I leave long enough tail of the thread and then just hand Stitch whatever closed
My big iron is a Shark and it’s great, love it! It’s not cordless though, that must have been an optical illusion haha. I actually do backstitch with my walking foot! Never had a problem. My machine also has a knot feature, so I use that a lot too, depending on what I’m doing.
@@PinCutSew I was re-watcing your video and wondering if you made your beanie/hat? I make hats using a round loom ( I can't knit 😊 ) if you did, is there a video? My daughter wants a slouchy beanie and I've never made 1. Thanks
Just an fyi the heat will go through the mat , so put something between it and your cutting board . Ps I posted this while still watching so maybe you discover that more into the video
Be careful with using the wool mat on your cutting mat. I have an Oliso iron that is super hot and it warped my cutting mat. Also the wool mat smells when its being used. But it does make it easier when I don't want to drag out the ironing board.
Its a good idea not to have your woolmat on your cutting board when ironing i did this once and ruined my cutting mat, the heat went through completely ruined mat.
The best things I did was to stop using water in my iron( I use a spray bottle ) and to buy a small iron … the small iron is soooooo much better than using my big iron when I am quilting and even for sewing clothes … plus I am disabled so the iron being so light makes things also easier .. thanks for your video 💖
Those mini irons do use distilled water. But my Chi Professional says to use tap water - I use bottled drinking water - it didn't do well with distilled 🙄
Years back my mom always used distilled water in our irons - but we lived in Phoenix and the water there was horrible - but I did drink it instead of the water from one of those water softener things my mom had forever and I’m still alive (75) but I don’t live in Phoenix anymore😄
@@sandybruce9092 I have the same problem with Vegas 💧 being very hard. Distilled water has absolutely no minerals where purified drinking water still has some. But, like my Chi Professional iron has a self clean button, you can rid the minerals in the holes of the iron quite easily and quickly from easily by remembering to do it frequently
@@ceciliaschleicher278 since we moved to Mooresville, NC I haven’t even tried the water here but it is a thousand percent better than Phoenix. It’s actually clear! And we have very good reports on it - and it actually really tastes good. So I may just give my local water a try (although I do admit to being completely obsessed with the new mister-type spray bottles!)
If you want a larger pressing mat, purchasing a wool saddle pad from an equestrian shop is much less expensive and still very high quality - horse people are fussy!
Yes! Very true. My Rowenta bought about 20 years ago stated not to use distilled water % just plain old tap water. Also mine never leaked as some people have had problems with this brand leaking - maybe it’s letting the water stay in the iron when not using it? Not sure but I was taught to empty the iron after use.
I decided some time ago to never use water in my irons anymore. Now that I have two good misting bottles - one large at home and a smaller one for traveling - I find that the mist from the bottle is enough. Another benefit -- the misting bottles don't have to be refilled as often as the tiny iron reservoirs do. Just my preference. YMMV.
I stopped putting water in my iron as well; had issues with color bleeding and water stains. Not fun! The mist bottle is great! This is my first time viewing this channel. So happy you have the walking foot; it's a game changer for sure. Thinking about a wool mat. Thanks for the reviews, and happy sewing!
I put distilled water in my 52 year old iron.
I always did that too until I started having problems despite the distilled water. Now I have the misting spray bottle.
I remember my mum sprinkling water from a bowl over the ironing items, rolled them up n stacked into a basket ready for ironing.
I have never used water in my irons after my first one leaked horrible black goop onto a favourite pair of pants in the 80s.
Water spray bottle for me - always. And my irons last until they burn out. Have not had many irons over the years at all.
@@SC-hj3hr oh my goodness I had forgot about that, my mom and grandma both did the same thing and so did the neighbor lady. Wash clothes on Monday and do the toning on Tuesday
2 things - It’s best not to use steam on a wool mat. The steam will cause the wool to begin to smell & May also stain the mat. #2- Your wool mat will sweat through using the hot iron, so DON’T place it on top of your cutting mat, & if you lay it on a wooden table, be careful that it doesn’t impact the finish of the wood. I used a plastic TV tray recently when doing some small piecing & layer a small hand towel under the mat to absorb the moisture.
It only smells when the wool mat is new and the smell wears off. As for the stains, it's typical. But, if you're worried, you can cover the mat with canvas or a thick cotton. I tried covering mine, but didn't like it. I only have one small stain on my mat and it's because I have spilled water on my mat not from steam
I made the mistake of placing my wool pressing pad on top of my cutting mat. The steam went through the pad and warped my cutting mat. So now I just place the pad on a wooden T.V. tray next to my machine. Love it.
@Dollie Egert I did that too at first and now do the same on a TV tray next to my machine - great for piecing (building) blocks
Thanks for posting. I wanted a wool mat but after reading your comment, I find something else to use.
I WISH the Wool pressing mats came with instructions because I wasn't thinking about the problems of steam getting thru the mat to damage the surface of my wooden table. I know, most of you would probably think about that but I did not. My table is very old and I need a new one but I would have been really upset if it was a new table. I think the Wool Mat should come with an instruction booklet for dummies like myself. ;-)
I’m 74 and have sewn just about all of my life. In the last few months I have purchased each of the items you showed today and I also have the same brand sewing machine that you have! I also didn’t know what a walking foot was. It definitely makes a world of difference in my quilting. I also love the mini iron, (not the same brand). Like you, I like to use the mini iron and my wool pressing mat for the smaller things and use the mister instead of putting water in the iron. I use my wool mat on my cutting table, not on my cutting mat, since the cutting mat is just to cut on . I don’t use water in any of my irons because the mister works so much better and I don’t have the hassle of filling and emptying the irons when I start and finish for the day. I enjoyed your video very much!
To get a mister, buy Mr. Clean in the misting spray, use it up cleaning your house and save the bottle to use as a misting bottle
I warped my cutting mat using a mini iron on my wool mat, that was on top of the cutting mat. I now move the mat and place the wool on my tabletop
I was going to say the same. The heat and steam definitely go through the wool mat
Eek! Thanks for that warning, I’ll for sure move it!
@@shadowmom Me too! I don't think it matters if it's a full size or a mini.
Yes, me too! I had to buy a new cutting mat because I warped mine. However, I love my wool mat. Yes, it initially smells, but it does go away. The smell didn't bother me. The wool mat is great for blocking your knit/crochet projects. My daughter uses it for blocking often. Also, if you need to use pins while ironing, this mat is great. In fact, I was thinking about getting a second mat.
I’ve never had that issue with my wool mat, it’s almost half an inch thick. After ironing, under my mat was room temp.
My wool mat is a western saddle blanket that cost $39 from State Line Tack. It was so big that I cut it in thirds. I have a pad I made with a layer of batting and InsulBrite under the mat on a wood tv tray. Works great for having at my side while sewing.
If you are using some kind of table below your wool mat be careful using steam cuz it goes thru the wool and will make the table damp and will ruin it. I pressed on a sheet of freezer paper to the under side of the mat. It will keep the steam from ruining your table or mat.
I love my silicone iron rest. I can rest the iron on it and just slide it over to use it. I don’t have to pick it up and turn the iron upright. It saves wear and tear on my wrists. With arthritis it really helps.
8:42 I used to hate ironing. Then I got into sewing. And I weirdly began liking ironing. Somehow it became incredibly satisfying to make those fabric seams behave.
I make doll clothes mostly but also some quilting and home goods, the small iron is a game changer. Love your channel.
I was fortunate many years ago to buy a Pfaff with an on board walking foot. It was the only mfg at the time with an on board foot. It absolutely is needed for straight line quilting.
Bought the iron and wool pad... LOVE THEM.. thank you
I bought one of those misters, and are they ever nice to spray at yourself on a hot day.
Haha! I’ll keep that in mind 😆
Exactly! Functional & pretty is my motto!
I was gifted an almost 40 year old Janome. It was originally my maternal grandmother’s and my mother just handed it down to me. I’m getting into quilting now and I’m obsessed! I ordered a walking foot through a sewing machine / vacuum restoring shop and I’m super excited to use it. Right now, I’m working on 9 quilts for my wedding party. I’m on quilt top 3/9 and I’m hoping the walking foot comes in soon so I have plenty of practice before I need to start batting and binding.
Wow, that’s an amazing gift!
Three extra tips to complement this video:
1. Pressing ham. You can DIY or purchase a pressing ham for pressing shoulders and other curves.
2. Pressing pads (wool or other) are super easy to DIY. There are several how-to videos here on UA-cam.
3. Instead of buying another silicone pad for your tiny iron, if you're not going to use the large one, why not cut it to fit the tiny iron?
You should add a clapper to your list of much-needed/useful items
WALKING FOOT CHANGED MY SEWING!!! I love knits especially bamboo, medium sewing speed,
I made a cover for my pressing mat and glad I did. It has kept it clean.
Clever!
Just a helpful word to the wise, I have both the mat and the mini iron placed on my cutting board which I think is where yours is, and the heat did go thru and buckle my cutting board so I recommend having some protective underneath or working in a different place.
I love your easy, breezy, ❤uncomplicated way of quilting. Keep up the wonderful videos
I had a Pfaff which has one built in so I’ve never used a walking foot. That machine was terrific, especially since I was sewing mostly home dec during those years and was using thick decorator fabrics. Now I own a Janome M7 which is a state of the art and can go through numerous layers with ease then immediately jump down to a very flimsy fabric. This machine is spectacular. For a quilter, it’s a dream. But an expensive one, so for most sewers, a walking foot is necessary and you certainly get your money’s worth!
I had been a Pfaff user before this too! I did love that built in walking foot.
Dear S I did the same thing,Had to buy a new cutting mat. I have all 4 items and love them.
Ironing on the wool mat placed on your cutting map will warp your cutting mat. Learned the hard way.
Agree with the comment below ,I was told steam could felt the mat. They take out wrinkles quickly with just heat.
Note for the wise: Don't steam on top of the wool mat on top of a cutting mat! I made that mistake and ruined my cutting mat - it warped it terribly because the steam was going through the wool mat and I didn't realize it! 😑
Yes, I would like to receive video’s of you sewing/quilting mug rugs, hot mats, fast & easy oven mitts & any other projects you care to share. Thank you for inspiring other’s to eventually take-up the stress-free hobby of quilting.
Love my walking feet, I have one for 3 of my machines
I do use steam on my wool mat, but I find the steam does come through on the other side. So I do not put it on my cutting mat. I have a small tv table at my side that I put my mat on. Make sure it has a finish that you do mind getting the steam on. I use a wood tray at first and it turned the finish white from the steam. I do not notice any smell coming from the mat.
It also is great for sewing plaids!!
I ordered a walking foot for my Babylock Jazz II and I love it!!
The entire point of using a wool substrate for pressing is to help accommodate steam - whether from a steam iron, a mister bottle or a dauber. It is necessary to take into account that repeated usage on any surface will most likely cause damage to that surface.
As for staining, a wool mat is a utilitarian object, just like the cover on an ironing board. Eventually both will discolor and may need replacement. Usage is tremendously more important than aesthetics with pressing equipment.
I bought an old wool blanket - complete with a few moth holes - for $3 at a thrift store. Washed in warm water and tumbled dry to felt. Lined both my ironing board and a 12x16 oak cutting board with 4 layers of the blanket. Made duck cloth covers for both. Attached rubber feet from Home Depot to the bottom of the cutting board to use at my sewing table.
The wool pad is a sewing trend, but used properly can ease a sewing task.
Very clever ideas.
I have the same mini-iron. Love it! The perfect quilter’s iron! Stays HOT & does not shut off, ready when you’ve sewn those blocks!
You should add a clapper to your list of much-needed/useful items. Love to use my clapper!
Yes, I do need a clapper! Also a tailor’s ham.
I use one and really like it!
I found mone at JoAnn & uses their coupon on it, was soo tickled to find it AND get a deal on price! 👍
Oliso just recommends that you use spring water in your iron which is what I’ve been doing because we have really hard water here where I live. Anyway, just wanted to mention that to some of you be careful how much heat you’re putting on that wool mat while it’s sitting on your cutting mat, that could be an expensive and sad thing to find out later.
girl I always get the generic they work well as long as you know what shank to get for your machine and they are soooooo much cheaper. I have some that came with expensive machines and some I have ordered and you honestly cannot tell the difference.
I have the Oliso Pro and the mini. Both state that the iron is designed to be used with regular tap water. There is a recommendation if your water is over 12 grams of hardness. I have used tap water in mine for several years now with no issue.Love both of them. Also, agree with another commenter that your cutting mat can warp from the steam heat. There is a tutorial for making a portable ironing board that would probably work for you and keep the hear away from the cutting mat. It uses a piece of plywood. A lot of good help out there!😁 I love all your new gadgets and hope you enjoy them for years to come.
Thanks for that, I’ll see what the manual says about the water. And I moved it off my cutting mat! 😁
@@PinCutSew - I use distilled water too in my mini iron. It's cheap, takes a while to go through and I don't have to go anywhere to refill. I don't see the point of using regular tap water on a regular basis, even if theoretically it's fine. If anything any build up will happen much faster in a mini iron.
I use a mix of 50/50 distilled and reg. Tap water. I don’t recommend Oliso iron in that mine died just 2 weeks after warranty. Never felt gave out steam or got as hot as my Rowenta.
Holy Christmas is January 7! we have only had commerical xmas.I wish you a blessed real Christmas day too!
I have all of the tools you mentioned. Thanks for sharing great information
I put about 1 in cardboard insert from something else it was to be a recycle cardboard but that keeps the heat from going to my cutting mat or the wood on my sewing machine table. I feel in love with my baby iron.
I’m not sure why, but my wool mat purchased from Amazon (a no named brand) started putting black spots on my fabric after time. This was also mentioned by another Podcaster. So be careful! I quit using mine. I love my misting bottle too because I never put water in my irons, they have all leaked over time, even my regular size Oliso. 😢
I love my wool mat! And I love my walking foot too! 💜 going to look at that iron too!
Thanks
Thank you so much I really really appreciate your time and effort to bring us all these amazing things for sewing 🧵 with. Yes that iron and felt square is really really cute and adorable too. Please stay safe and well too xxx Mags
The only thing I'm still waiting on is the wool mat!! I'm determined to get it this yr (2023)!!!
I love love love my wool mat! I have had it for several months now and I cannot believe I hesitated to purchase one! So worth the $$. I also love my mini iron! Another product I wish I had not hesitated to purchase! :) I have a spray bottle. I don't use it too much as my mini iron has steam and so far does all that I need it to do. My walking foot....love when quilting!
You have a nice size wool mat. Mine is square, I like your rectangular one. I do the same thing you are doing, keeping one beside me so I don't have to keep getting up and down. I moved my big iron over, the small one I have was super hot!! if like mine it can warp your cutting board. You may want to put a board under it!
My MW iron is over 40 years old and I have never put water in it. I’ve repaired the cord twice. A misting bottle would be a welcome addition. A mini iron would also be nice-my birthday is a couple months away!
Cute gadgets you got.
The first time I met a walking foot was back in the mid 1970s. I worked in a leather shop and we needed a walking foot so as not to leave unpleasant marks on the leather. This was for a commercial machine, and they may not have been available for domestic machines at that time. I would love a wool pad, but I don't have one yet.
I bought a dritz brand silicone mat for my steam fast mini iorn. I don’t love the mini Olso iorn I find it uncomfortable to hold yours seems easy to hold. I like the price point of the steam fast ones.
When I bought my Elna in 1985 I was sold a walking foot which would not work on the elna no matter how I connected it. So it was put on the printers tray on display unused. Eventually in 2014 I inherited a pfaff 919 hobbymatic and I managed to fit the walking foot and it worked!!!!!!! 30 years later!
I’m 52 and only heard of a walking foot a few weeks ago, it’s on my wish list!
I love my mini irons when I was quilting. I've used them exclusively with regular garment sewing. After using mini ones for years it's very wierd using a regular one that I recently bought to replace a mini one that finally went to iron heaven. There's several I've had over the years because whenever Id taken one to visit my (iron-less) adult kids they insisted I leave it behind. Honestly why are vacuum cleaners and irons always the last thing kids on their own purchase). I find they get hotter than regular irons, have better directional steam (well they are smaller sooooo there's that) and they are just more ergonomic. The only downside is the small water chamber. But that wool pad is definitely something I've never seen before I'll have to put that on my list for sure. I used to use just a piece of quilt batting in a small pillow case next to my sewing machine when I was piecing. Maybe someday I'll actually remember to look for some silk organza also for the ultimate pressing cloth too. Thanks for the video, your feed just showed up on my screen. It's always good to find a new UA-camr 🙂💜🇨🇦
Well now I know what to give my kids as housewarming gifts someday 😆
For the iron use distilled water last long because of mineral in water cause to heat up less.
Those are all my favorites! Esp the wool mat. I use my walking foot when making burp cloths…game changer for sure.
We’re in the process of gutting our 1950s home. One outlet per room😮 Crazy!! That won’t work in a craft room 😅
Happy New Year to you too 🎉
We are also renovating a 50s house! Solidarity, I feel your pain 👊🏻
We are too! Our new house was built in 1958! It was last renovated about 30 years ago so definitely needs some updates including more designated outlets.
I will check out this mini iron. I had one before that was worthless that I got from bed bath & beyond it was kind of weird looking I don't remember the brand but it didn't seem worth beans. I took it back and got a refund. It would be nice to have a small steam iron that worked well a little projects. Have a super powerful rowenta steam generating iron which is fantastic except that it's heavy and sometimes it would be nice to use a lighter weight iron.
My irons don't steam well with our city water so I buy spring water to use. One of my irons specifically stated to NOT use distilled water. And, I always empty my iron when I'm finished with it. Leaving water in the iron may cause some corrosion which leads to leaking and spitting out black gunk. My mother preferred a non-steam iron which is now in my sewing room. It's one heavy iron.
I got myself those things, too!
Really good tips. Thankyou
I use that spray bottle for my face, and also for baking bread!
The only thing I don’t have of all you mentioned is that mister, I will look for it now. Thank you.
I'm a stander to. I can't move around enough sitting. My arms and hands are much fast standing. I feel cramped sitting. Sometimes I will get tired and move back to my sewing table but not often.
Please consider not putting water in your irons. That blue water sprayer your mom bought you is what you should use instead. Irons work better for much longer when they don’t have to contend with mineral buildup and rust. And you will benefit with no stains on your fabrics from rust and minerals. Win win
Happy New Year 🎊
Sharper image has the mat for this iron along with the carry case for under $20
Ooh! Thank you for telling me!
I love my wool mat
The Oliso Mini is really hard to hold on to. Hated it, made my hand cramp. I returned it and got an a mini travel.
Becareful using iron on your wool mat , you can warp your cutting mat.
I made the mistake in using my wool mate on my cutting mat! It warps the cutting mat.
I was ironing on my mat on top of my cutting mat and I warped my cutting mat. The heat and steam seeped through to the cutting mat and ruined that end of my cutting mat. I hope you don't have that problem.
Take a silicon pot holder and cut to size of your mini iron and there you go, works like a charm
I have a spray bottle not a misting one, the wool mat lives in my ironing board, I've got walking foot or feet for more than one machine on my bucket list, I quilt small projects fine without one. I would like anyone to explain how to install a walking foot on any brand machine, including Brother and Singer.
I own 2 mini iron but still prefer my newer large iron. But for travel a mini kit of everything is useful
The secret to installing the walking foot: there’s a moveable lever on the right hand side of it that needs to rest ON TOP of the screw that holds your needle in place.
Some machines’ walking feet are timed so that the bottom and top feed dogs hit at the same time. Janome accufeed and Bernina machines have this feature, for sure. A step up from a generic walking foot.
Yes and Pfaff too! Thanks for pointing that out, I failed to mention that in the video.
Don’t use that mini iron on top of a cutting mat. You’ll ruin it. Ask me how I know? 😬
The iron manufacturers say not to use distilled water but to use tap or spring water in them. I ruined several using distilled because i thought i knew best. I now use bottled spring water.
I’ve heard that of other irons, but this little one’s instructions actually say to use distilled! I wonder what makes the difference 🤔
I see travel size irons in thrift stores, all the time, for $2-3.
Unfortunately, you don't know if they've been dropped which is the fastest way to ruin an iron.
Be aware with some wool pressing mats if they get wet they may emit some sheep odors. It depends on the brand and how extensively the wool was cleaned prior to creating the mat.
What kind of cordless iron are you using in the earlier part of the video?
I don't have a cordless iron, that must have been an optical illusion, haha! My large iron is a Shark and this mini one is Sharper Image.
@@PinCutSew Thanks, I must not be see things
I haven’t used water in any of my irons for many, many years - pain in the *** to do it - but my mim always insisted I empty the water out after finishing ironing % which I always did. Nit removing the water can cause the iron to rust inside and that may cause spurts of rust - not nice. I used to use a plain old spray bottle but these new misters are fabulous! They actually came from the beauty supply store - beauticians use them. I have quite a few with quilting stuff on them but the generic ones from beauty supply stores are just as good, but not as cute!!😄😄
Right after making this video, I got a hair cut and my stylist had one!! Haha, I can’t believe I never noticed what a great sewing tool it would be.
@@PinCutSew without all the really cute designs, the ones from the beauty supply are a whole bunch cheaper!!! I actually keep one of my sewing logo ones in the bathroom when my bangs go crazy some days! These mister bottles are fabulous!
Two questions.
One. Not the mini iron but the other iron you were using, I noticed it was cordless. could you tell me what brand that is?
Question 2. since you can't backstitch with a walking foot, how are you supposed to make it so your stitches don't come out? I have used a walking foot several times but I leave long enough tail of the thread and then just hand Stitch whatever closed
My big iron is a Shark and it’s great, love it! It’s not cordless though, that must have been an optical illusion haha. I actually do backstitch with my walking foot! Never had a problem. My machine also has a knot feature, so I use that a lot too, depending on what I’m doing.
@@PinCutSew I've never actually tried to backstitch with my walking foot. Thanks for the videos
@@PinCutSew I was re-watcing your video and wondering if you made your beanie/hat? I make hats using a round loom ( I can't knit 😊 ) if you did, is there a video? My daughter wants a slouchy beanie and I've never made 1.
Thanks
Crazy these sewing machines intended for quilting don't include 1/4 inch foot or a walking foot!!! Nice channel I just found!
They want you to buy separately and cost you more money 💰
Quarter inch tape from Cluck Cluck Sew will help you, I bought mine from MSQC, but available elsewhere.
Just an fyi the heat will go through the mat , so put something between it and your cutting board . Ps I posted this while still watching so maybe you discover that more into the video
I just bought an Oliso smart iron and the instructions say tap water is OK, or bottled water, but never distilled. Doesn’t say why.
Read iron instructions many irons say don’t use distilled water
I love my Janome's. I have 3. I traded in my 6600 and wish I still had it. It was so good going over thick seams.
This is my first Janome and I could not be happier!
My mama loved her Janome, which I inherited. Need to use it.
I love my Janome too
Mini silicone mat at Hobby Lobby.
Oops, just realized that you said you did not get the Oliso!!! Sorry!!!😬 Just always a good idea to check!!
What machine did you get?
From the demonstrations of use for the mini Oliso, I’d steer clear from it.
When using your wool mat - I have always been told - don’t place it on your cutting mat as the steam/heat will come through and distort your mat.
Yes, a few others have said that here and I moved it right off of there! 😁
I haven’t had this issue, I iron on my dining table, the mat is cool underneath after ironing. It’s a thick mat.
I don't put water in any iron, they cause too much problems over time
FYI. You are not supposed to use steam on those wall mats it will ruin them. I bought a Panasonic cordless I am that I just love.
Be careful with using the wool mat on your cutting mat. I have an Oliso iron that is super hot and it warped my cutting mat. Also the wool mat smells when its being used. But it does make it easier when I don't want to drag out the ironing board.
Its a good idea not to have your woolmat on your cutting board when ironing i did this once and ruined my cutting mat, the heat went through completely ruined mat.
Me Clean comes in those misting bottles now
The best things I did was to stop using water in my iron( I use a spray bottle ) and to buy a small iron … the small iron is soooooo much better than using my big iron when I am quilting and even for sewing clothes … plus I am disabled so the iron being so light makes things also easier .. thanks for your video 💖
Those mini irons do use distilled water. But my Chi Professional says to use tap water - I use bottled drinking water - it didn't do well with distilled 🙄
So interesting, I wonder why it matters! Lol
Years back my mom always used distilled water in our irons - but we lived in Phoenix and the water there was horrible - but I did drink it instead of the water from one of those water softener things my mom had forever and I’m still alive (75) but I don’t live in Phoenix anymore😄
@@sandybruce9092 I have the same problem with Vegas 💧 being very hard. Distilled water has absolutely no minerals where purified drinking water still has some. But, like my Chi Professional iron has a self clean button, you can rid the minerals in the holes of the iron quite easily and quickly from easily by remembering to do it frequently
@@ceciliaschleicher278 since we moved to Mooresville, NC I haven’t even tried the water here but it is a thousand percent better than Phoenix. It’s actually clear! And we have very good reports on it - and it actually really tastes good. So I may just give my local water a try (although I do admit to being completely obsessed with the new mister-type spray bottles!)
Distilled water doesn't steam as effectively as spring water.
If you want a larger pressing mat, purchasing a wool saddle pad from an equestrian shop is much less expensive and still very high quality - horse people are fussy!
Great tip!
I used my wool mat on top of my cutting mat and it has distorted my mat 😢
Many new iron do not want distilled water requirements. Some irons need the minerals. Check your manual…..ask my how I know🤪
I will check!
Yes! Very true. My Rowenta bought about 20 years ago stated not to use distilled water % just plain old tap water. Also mine never leaked as some people have had problems with this brand leaking - maybe it’s letting the water stay in the iron when not using it? Not sure but I was taught to empty the iron after use.