Daily life, craft, and technique
For generations, this was the heart of laundry day. Tailors, dressmakers, hotel laundries, and families relied on it to smooth seams, set pleats, and polish collars.
What made a great press:
Moisture + heat: Clothes were slightly dampened first (sprinkled with water) so steam from the hot soleplate relaxed fibers.
Rhythm: Users learned a rhythm—press, lift, fan the vents to stoke the charcoal, press again.
Starch and finish: Starched cuffs and collars were common; some rubbed a bit of beeswax or soap on the soleplate to glide over fabric.
Care and safety: Ash was emptied outside; coals were handled with tongs; irons were parked on a trivet to protect tables.
Why the decorations?
Makers often added ornamental latches or handles—birds, lions, scrollwork—not just for beauty but for grip and as a quick-acting latch you could lift with one hand. Craftspeople took pride in tools that were both rugged and handsome.
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For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends
Daily life, craft, and technique
For generations, this was the heart of laundry day. Tailors, dressmakers, hotel laundries, and families relied on it to smooth seams, set pleats, and polish collars.
What made a great press:
Moisture + heat: Clothes were slightly dampened first (sprinkled with water) so steam from the hot soleplate relaxed fibers.
Rhythm: Users learned a rhythm—press, lift, fan the vents to stoke the charcoal, press again.
Starch and finish: Starched cuffs and collars were common; some rubbed a bit of beeswax or soap on the soleplate to glide over fabric.
Care and safety: Ash was emptied outside; coals were handled with tongs; irons were parked on a trivet to protect tables.
Why the decorations?
Makers often added ornamental latches or handles—birds, lions, scrollwork—not just for beauty but for grip and as a quick-acting latch you could lift with one hand. Craftspeople took pride in tools that were both rugged and handsome.
see next page
For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends
