What is a Tailor’s Pressing Ham?
A Tailor’s Ham is a firmly stuffed, oval-shaped cushion used to press curved seams, darts, sleeve heads, and collarswithout flattening their natural shape. It is an indispensable tool for pressing areas that would otherwise be difficult to shape with a flat ironing board.
The curved edges of the pressing ham mimic the contours of the body, helping garments take on their intended form while preventing unwanted seam impressions on the fabric.
Key Features & Benefits:
✔ Ergonomic Design – The rounded shape conforms to body curves, making it ideal for shaping and pressing.
✔ Dual Fabric Covering – One side features a wool blend fabric to retain steam and heat for pressing wool and heavier fabrics, while the other side has a cotton cover for lighter, delicate fabrics.
✔ Ideal for Precision Pressing – Helps to open and shape curved seams, sleeve heads, darts, princess seams, and collars with ease.
✔ Prevents Seam Impressions – Ensures that seam allowances are pressed properly without showing through on the garment’s right side.
✔ Compact & Portable – Easy to store and use in any workspace, whether at home or in a professional sewing studio.
How to Use a Tailor’s Pressing Ham:
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Set Up Your Iron & Work Area
- Adjust your iron to the correct heat setting for your fabric.
- If working with steam, ensure the iron has enough water and use a pressing cloth if needed.
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Position the Fabric on the Pressing Ham
- Place the garment section that needs pressing over the tailor’s ham, aligning it with the curved surface that best matches the shape of the seam or dart.
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Press, Don't Iron
- Use an up-and-down pressing motion rather than sliding the iron back and forth, which could distort the fabric.
- Hold the iron in place for a few seconds to allow the steam and heat to set the shape.
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Use Steam for Better Shaping
- Steam helps set the fabric into shape. If your iron doesn’t have a steam function, lightly mist the fabric with water before pressing.
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Let the Fabric Cool Before Moving
- After pressing, allow the fabric to cool on the ham before removing it. This helps the fabric retain its shape.
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Alternate Between the Two Fabric Surfaces
- Use the cotton side for pressing delicate fabrics like cotton, silk, and synthetics.
- Use the wool side for pressing heavier fabrics like wool, linen, and tweeds.
Who Should Use a Tailor’s Pressing Ham?
The Tailor’s Ham is a must-have tool for:
✔ Dressmakers & Tailors – Achieve professional-quality shaping for fitted garments.
✔ Home Sewists – Perfect for personal sewing projects, alterations, and custom tailoring.
✔ Quilters & Crafters – Useful for precision pressing in quilting and crafting projects.
Care Instructions:
- Store in a dry place to prevent moisture buildup.
- Avoid exposing it to excessive heat for long periods.
- If needed, spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Why You Need a Tailor’s Pressing Ham
A flat ironing board simply won’t give you the same results when it comes to pressing curved seams, darts, and collars. The Tailor’s Pressing Ham allows you to shape garments correctly, ensuring your sewing projects have a polished, professional finish. Whether you're working on a structured jacket, a fitted dress, or even a simple blouse, this tool is essential for achieving flawless results.
Upgrade your sewing toolkit with the Sew Easy Tailor’s Pressing Ham and experience professional garment shaping with every press!
