A Terrific Pressing Tool - The Clapper

Clapper and Iron

The Clapper is an often overlooked Pressing Tool that can really help you achieve a polished finished product.

What's a Clapper?  How do I use it?  Is it worth using?

The Clapper is a made from a hardwood like Maple or Ash.  It is unfinished, meaning no varnish, wax or stain.  This is to allow the wood to absorb heat and steam.

The one I use is about 10 inches long by 2 1/2 inches wide with a gently tapering shape.  The height is 1 3/4 inches. A groove on the sides makes it easy to pick up and use.





So just how does one use the Clapper? And for what purpose?

You just quickly steam the fabric with the iron and then place the Clapper on and apply pressure until the fabric cools.  The Clapper absorbs the heat and steam.  This results in a crisp press!

Use it for perfectly pressed seams, crisp pleats, pressing hems and other thick areas where you don't want 'show through' pressing lines. It is absolutely terrific for making Crisp Looking Straps and Handles for Bags and Totes!

Take a look at these Dog Bow Ties I recently made.  The whole shape is a result of pressing layers of interfaced fabric in a particular way.  By using the Clapper a Crisp Bow Tie is the result!

Using a Clapper makes the Bow Ties Crisp and Clean

The Clapper eliminates the need to keep the iron on the fabric a long time to achieve a crisp press.  This is especially helpful for delicate fabrics where the iron could damage the fabric if held on too long.

Is it worth using?  Yes!!  The more I use mine the better I like it. I use it for so many pressing areas!  If you haven't tried the Clapper you'll be surprised by how much it improves your sewing projects!

Where can you get one?  One place is  Seaside Fabricrafts Etsy Shop.  Other sewing supply stores may also carry it .

So what do you think?  Are you ready to improve your sewing projects?  Then go get yourself a Clapper.  You won't regret it!

Happy Sewing.....