You don’t need to cover your wool mat it’s the wool that helps get rid of creases etc by throwing the heat back up into the fabric, this is what I was taught and ironing on your cutting mat can warp it.x
You shouldn't have to, but some people have had issues of the wool pat sticking to the iron, ruining the iron and the mat. So making a cover for it is a good idea to preserve the life of the mat and the iron.
@lifehappens587 I know that, but people buy mats that are not 100% wool, sometimes these wool mats are missold as 100% wool when they are not and as such,the making a cover is the solution and this lady has made a solution for that problem.
A good idea to keep your wool mat clean is to use a wool mat cleaner brush and wash your mat periodically with a gentle cleaner, such as one you would wash your quilts with. This will remove any starch or starch alternative within the mat itself. To speed up drying time, use a clean towel and press the excess water out. I’ve never covered my wool mat, as the 100% wool is what heats the fabric to help seams to lie flat!💕🧵
I place a piece of insul-brite batting, used for pot holders, beneath my wool ironing mat. I have a small space so I have to use my cutting table for ironing also. This works very well. I never use steam and never use starch near my wool mat, I spray my fabric with starch and hang to dry before I ever iron it.
This is a really good idea! I never would’ve thought to cover my wool mat, but it makes sense. I got a 14” square mat for Christmas, so I’ll need to use a half yard of fabric to cover mine. Thanks for the great idea & video! 🙏😊
The steam will still go thru the fabrics. A product called Eucalan will clean with no fuss. Can be bought at wool shops or some quilt stores. A Wool Mat Cleaner, a tool to drag over your mat cleans off lint each time. Works well.
I bought a small wool mat, at least I thought that’s what I was buying. I have it situated right next to my machine. Turns out, it’s hard as a board and my iron does stick to it. I was disappointed, but this video solved my problem. I know my fabric isn’t sinking into the “wool” mat when I iron, but at least I can use it.
I have a piece of silicone mat which is 1/2 inch bigger than my wool mat all round. This enables me to iron on top of my cutting mat without any issues.
Wool is a natural fiber so it doesn’t melt. It burns or gets scorched. I just keep a 100% cotton cloth on top when I use it but I have thought about making a cover for it. So I think having some kind of cover is a good idea.
@@Hiker_who_Sews I utilize both as I have a very small room. If just a small job the mats are great, but be sure you purchase a trusted name as I have a feeling that is why I was having so many issues with the melting. I still cover either way as the job gets done with a cover on it, and saves me from destroying a new iron😉
I think it would be a nice addition to take the left over fabric and make some handles to attach to the top since that size mat is good for porting to classes and the handles could be used to hang it for storage. If I were you I would stick to ironing on the back of the fabric since the iron looks extremely well loved and used. I image the peeling iron coating would leave some bad marks on fabric.
Pure wool won't melt--if there's any polyester in it, that can melt... Covering with muslin makes sense for either, and don't place over a surface that heat or moisture can damage--heat & steam will travel thru the mat, as well as goal of helping the underside of the fabrics you're ironing. But recommend washing any fabric first for the cover to remove the sizing & ensure any print is colorfast--don't want to risk anything unexpectedly transferring to what you're working on!
If iron was set on too high of heat, or perhaps a starch was used? I do know too high of heat did indeed cause mine to get gunked up when using the wool mat unfortunately😔
Why bother with that unless you use starch or any similar stiffening product? I had mine for 5 years or more and it still looks as good as new . The clue is in the name "wool" mat so you only allow the iron to actually make contact with the mat at that setting or lower..
Thank you for your valuable input❣️ When one first starts out, as we are a begginers channel, mistakes are often made. It also gives an added layer of protection when quilting on the go😉
I have heard that a lot now, so you definitely are not the only one who learned this the hard way unfortunately. Thank you for viewing and for reiterating this very useful tip❣️
As a beginner in quilting or sewing, we often see notions that look like the perfect solution to an issue we may be having. The smaller, portable wool mats are often one of them. However, if using an older iron or any iron set a bit to high, it will melt a wool mat very quickly. By covering them, we prevent melting and also prolong the wool mat from any other damage that may occur in use or travel. Kind of like having a dust jacket for our sewing machines 😉
I have several different irons I use interchangeably- and I’ve never experienced any problem whatsoever with my wool mats! And please do not use that thin plaid pressing surface on your cutting mat!!!
@sewgrannysew thanks for clarifying why you covered the wool mat as the reason wasn’t clear from the video. I summarized It as it gives the beginner time to learn how to use their tools properly as they mature in their skills. For an experienced sewist it seems to defeat the purpose of the wool mat features.
@@donnawhite5343 Thank you for your honest question. I have learned a lot since the early days, but thankfully, my mat did not warp😉 I have made further videos stating not to do this❣️
Distilled water is the best. Tap water leaves residue, depending on what minerals you have in water. In some parts of country there is iron, which leaves reddish stains, other parts calcium, which leaves white stains.
If you are have experience with a wool pressing mat, don't use any type of starch, nor travel such as retreats, ECT., you may be fine with a good quality 100% wool mat without covering it😉 My iron is awful with a broken knob and set on high. Also, I purchased a wool mat on the cheap side and the very first time I tried it out, I melted my wool mat. For someone just starting out with one, a cover can be a tremendous help not to mess it up. Thank you so much for viewing and commenting❣️
I made a similar cover with two kitchen drying towels for my wafer thin light box. The box it came in was falling apart. I place a heavy all cotton kitchen towel on top of my wool mat if using anything like starch, etc. and I think the heat still comes up and helps with a better press. That towel is stained and yucky looking. It was cheaply priced so I can toss it when I want but I've been using it for about 2 years now. My wool mat was not cheap so I want to protect it. I just lift that towel off if I don't need it. I accidentally forgot to move my beautiful pink Lori Holt cutting mat when I was using the wool mat and YES, the heat and steam went right thru and warped it. It's not a big warp so I can use it to protect my wood table and cut paper stuff on it. My wood table got all wet and hot too so I place the wool mat on my ironing board to use it now. I love the mat but it came with no caution, etc. My common sense left me that day-LOL. Live and learn. There are a lot contradictory info on using wool mats if you search online so that doesn't always help either.
I am sorry about warping your Lori Holt Mat😔 I started out this round with cheap supplies to get going. I honestly do not recommend the 3 pack cutting mats I purchased, therefore, warping may encourage me to purchase a quality one lol. In whole, I guess I iron on my ironing board, but videos have caused me to get into a few bad habits I need to change😉 I do like covering the pressing mat and yes, the heat does still "bounce" back up to the fabric 🙂 Thank you so much for your viewing and comment❣️
Thank you for your comment❣️ I believe we are seeing several mats say 100% wool, and are not. It seems there are a lot who have had this issue. Then the lack of care and use instructions when purchasing one is just crazy seeings we all have to start somewhere.🤷
Only used my ironing mat for 4-6 months. Don't know how I didn't know sooner. I love it and want to cover just in case.
Yes, it does help hold the heat better I am also finding😉 Thank you for viewing❣️
You don’t need to cover your wool mat it’s the wool that helps get rid of creases etc by throwing the heat back up into the fabric, this is what I was taught and ironing on your cutting mat can warp it.x
You shouldn't have to, but some people have had issues of the wool pat sticking to the iron, ruining the iron and the mat. So making a cover for it is a good idea to preserve the life of the mat and the iron.
@@dawn5227then it wasn’t 100% wool
@lifehappens587 I know that, but people buy mats that are not 100% wool, sometimes these wool mats are missold as 100% wool when they are not and as such,the making a cover is the solution and this lady has made a solution for that problem.
I got black stuff on my iron and fabric from my Matt. And its from a quality store,
You could use the leftover scrap and make your granddaughter a matching pincushion! Love your video!
I unfortunately, just started into making pin cushions😉 That is a wonderful idea just the same❣️
A good idea to keep your wool mat clean is to use a wool mat cleaner brush and wash your mat periodically with a gentle cleaner, such as one you would wash your quilts with. This will remove any starch or starch alternative within the mat itself. To speed up drying time, use a clean towel and press the excess water out.
I’ve never covered my wool mat, as the 100% wool is what heats the fabric to help seams to lie flat!💕🧵
Thank you for the tips❣️ This is great info for anyone just starting with a wool pressing mat😉
I place a piece of insul-brite batting, used for pot holders, beneath my wool ironing mat. I have a small space so I have to use my cutting table for ironing also. This works very well. I never use steam and never use starch near my wool mat, I spray my fabric with starch and hang to dry before I ever iron it.
Another great tip for someone just starting with wool mats😉 Thank you for your comment❣️
I noticed the other day my iron got a film on it from my new wool mat...this makes so much sense. Thank you.
You are very welcome❣️ Thank you for viewing😉
FYI...am in sewing room cutting two fat quarters to size as we speak...(bigger mat)@@SewGrannySew
Hot moisture went through my mat and puckered the table I was ironing on. Lesson learned.
I am so sorry to hear that. Yes, it seams as though a few have unfortunately learned this way❣️
This is a really good idea! I never would’ve thought to cover my wool mat, but it makes sense. I got a 14” square mat for Christmas, so I’ll need to use a half yard of fabric to cover mine. Thanks for the great idea & video! 🙏😊
You are very welcome & thank you for viewing❣️
The steam will still go thru the fabrics. A product called Eucalan will clean with no fuss. Can be bought at wool shops or some quilt stores. A Wool Mat Cleaner, a tool to drag over your mat cleans off lint each time. Works well.
Thank you for viewing and for the tips❣️
I bought a small wool mat, at least I thought that’s what I was buying. I have it situated right next to my machine. Turns out, it’s hard as a board and my iron does stick to it. I was disappointed, but this video solved my problem. I know my fabric isn’t sinking into the “wool” mat when I iron, but at least I can use it.
I am so glad that it will work out for you & happy I could help❣️
I have a piece of silicone mat which is 1/2 inch bigger than my wool mat all round. This enables me to iron on top of my cutting mat without any issues.
What a wonderful idea ❣️ Thank you so much for sharing that with everyone😘🥰
Wool is a natural fiber so it doesn’t melt. It burns or gets scorched. I just keep a 100% cotton cloth on top when I use it but I have thought about making a cover for it. So I think having some kind of cover is a good idea.
That is what I use to do as well. I just kept losing my cotton piece in the shuffle, so this really did help❣️
I never put my wool mat on my cutting board to iron. I’ve read that the heat can permeate and warp the mat
Thank you❣️
I put a layer of batting on a cookie sheet, then my wool mat to protect my wood sewing service.
What a wonderful idea❣️ Does the cookie tin get warm at all?
Great idea!
Thank you ❣️
Ironing on your cutting mat with your wool iron pad will warp when using steam.😢
Thank you for the tip. I have not done that yet, so that will certainly stay in the back of my mind❣️
It will also cause the layers to delaminate.
I'd never heard before that wool melted. I think I'll keep my regular ironing board.
@@Hiker_who_Sews I utilize both as I have a very small room. If just a small job the mats are great, but be sure you purchase a trusted name as I have a feeling that is why I was having so many issues with the melting. I still cover either way as the job gets done with a cover on it, and saves me from destroying a new iron😉
I bought my mat so I could stab pins in it and my fabric so I could iron my folds without having to get my fingers close to the iron.
That is a great idea❣️Have you looked into those silicon thimble things one can purchase? They may be of some help in this case😉
I think it would be a nice addition to take the left over fabric and make some handles to attach to the top since that size mat is good for porting to classes and the handles could be used to hang it for storage. If I were you I would stick to ironing on the back of the fabric since the iron looks extremely well loved and used. I image the peeling iron coating would leave some bad marks on fabric.
Love this idea❣️ That would be very useful😉
On the note of ironing, I must agree🙂
Pure wool won't melt--if there's any polyester in it, that can melt... Covering with muslin makes sense for either, and don't place over a surface that heat or moisture can damage--heat & steam will travel thru the mat, as well as goal of helping the underside of the fabrics you're ironing. But recommend washing any fabric first for the cover to remove the sizing & ensure any print is colorfast--don't want to risk anything unexpectedly transferring to what you're working on!
Suck great tips, thank you ❣️
Like seeing and hearing the sewing. Why did you cover wool pressing mat? Benefits? Ascetics?
There are a few different benefits to covering, especially if you are new to the wool mat, or travel with your wool mat😉
Wrecked the soleplate of a very nice iron before I figured out to cover the wool mat.
I am so so sorry about your iron, but you do have a great point as to why we should cover our pressing mats❣️ Thank you for commenting😉
Pelosi. Didn't know to cover my Matt. Is that why I ended up with black stuff on iron and fabric?
If iron was set on too high of heat, or perhaps a starch was used? I do know too high of heat did indeed cause mine to get gunked up when using the wool mat unfortunately😔
Why bother with that unless you use starch or any similar stiffening product? I had mine for 5 years or more and it still looks as good as new . The clue is in the name "wool" mat so you only allow the iron to actually make contact with the mat at that setting or lower..
Thank you for your valuable input❣️ When one first starts out, as we are a begginers channel, mistakes are often made. It also gives an added layer of protection when quilting on the go😉
Should I pre wash the cotton cover before sewing it
That is totally up to you as there is a bit of extra room should it have a little shrinkage. If using denim or the like, I probably would.❣️🥰
Wool melts? Perhaps your mat isn't 100% wool if you see melting.
That could possibly be, as I saying in video, I purchased mine really cheap. Thank you for your feedback ❣️
I wouldn't press on your wool mat laying on top of your cutting mat you will warp it , ask me how I know!😂😂😂
I have heard that a lot now, so you definitely are not the only one who learned this the hard way unfortunately. Thank you for viewing and for reiterating this very useful tip❣️
And me as well.
Same here!
Did that 😢
I don’t understand why we need to cover the wool mat
As a beginner in quilting or sewing, we often see notions that look like the perfect solution to an issue we may be having. The smaller, portable wool mats are often one of them. However, if using an older iron or any iron set a bit to high, it will melt a wool mat very quickly. By covering them, we prevent melting and also prolong the wool mat from any other damage that may occur in use or travel.
Kind of like having a dust jacket for our sewing machines 😉
I have several different irons I use interchangeably- and I’ve never experienced any problem whatsoever with my wool mats! And please do not use that thin plaid pressing surface on your cutting mat!!!
@sewgrannysew thanks for clarifying why you covered the wool mat as the reason wasn’t clear from the video. I summarized It as it gives the beginner time to learn how to use their tools properly as they mature in their skills. For an experienced sewist it seems to defeat the purpose of the wool mat features.
@@SewGrannySewA 100%wool mat won’t melt. Mine has never melted.
You're not supposed to use steam, spray water erc when using the wool pressing pad.
It's so worthwhile for many scenarios.
Thank you for that tip as most wool mats do not come with and care & use guides for begginers ❣️
Why are you ironing on your cutting mat?
@@donnawhite5343 Thank you for your honest question. I have learned a lot since the early days, but thankfully, my mat did not warp😉
I have made further videos stating not to do this❣️
I forgot to cover my mat and my cat had a nice time pulling her nails on the wool. Now I have lumps🫣
Oh no⁉️ Cats are crazy like that😔 If it is not too bad you could cover and flip it❣️
What do you use in your spray bottle?
Hi Vicky, and thank you for viewing❣️ I just use filtered tap water in my spray bottle. Hope that helps some.😉
Distilled water is the best. Tap water leaves residue, depending on what minerals you have in water. In some parts of country there is iron, which leaves reddish stains, other parts calcium, which leaves white stains.
Done that 😢
@@penelopelinton7261 Yes, it is truly a learning experience😢😔
I do not get why you need to cover the wool mat.
If you are have experience with a wool pressing mat, don't use any type of starch, nor travel such as retreats, ECT., you may be fine with a good quality 100% wool mat without covering it😉 My iron is awful with a broken knob and set on high. Also, I purchased a wool mat on the cheap side and the very first time I tried it out, I melted my wool mat. For someone just starting out with one, a cover can be a tremendous help not to mess it up.
Thank you so much for viewing and commenting❣️
I made a similar cover with two kitchen drying towels for my wafer thin light box. The box it came in was falling apart. I place a heavy all cotton kitchen towel on top of my wool mat if using anything like starch, etc. and I think the heat still comes up and helps with a better press. That towel is stained and yucky looking. It was cheaply priced so I can toss it when I want but I've been using it for about 2 years now. My wool mat was not cheap so I want to protect it. I just lift that towel off if I don't need it. I accidentally forgot to move my beautiful pink Lori Holt cutting mat when I was using the wool mat and YES, the heat and steam went right thru and warped it. It's not a big warp so I can use it to protect my wood table and cut paper stuff on it. My wood table got all wet and hot too so I place the wool mat on my ironing board to use it now. I love the mat but it came with no caution, etc. My common sense left me that day-LOL. Live and learn. There are a lot contradictory info on using wool mats if you search online so that doesn't always help either.
I am sorry about warping your Lori Holt Mat😔 I started out this round with cheap supplies to get going. I honestly do not recommend the 3 pack cutting mats I purchased, therefore, warping may encourage me to purchase a quality one lol.
In whole, I guess I iron on my ironing board, but videos have caused me to get into a few bad habits I need to change😉
I do like covering the pressing mat and yes, the heat does still "bounce" back up to the fabric 🙂
Thank you so much for your viewing and comment❣️
Thank You
You're welcome, and Thank you for viewing😉
I ruined my cutting mat by resting my hot iron (upright) on the mat just like she’s doing.
Wow, I did not realize that was possible. Thank you for the heads up❣️
My granny said you could use tap water in your iron if you emptied every time.
Yes, I was taught that as well. But there are different kinds of irons now so I just stay on the safe side and use my trusty spray bottle😉
If it’s 100% wool there shouldn’t be anything melting in it
Thank you for your comment❣️ I believe we are seeing several mats say 100% wool, and are not. It seems there are a lot who have had this issue. Then the lack of care and use instructions when purchasing one is just crazy seeings we all have to start somewhere.🤷
The problem is your iron, not the wool mat. 😮
The iron has definately seen better days🤣😂
Hello😉❣️
You really need a new iron. You re working too hard.
I have since then, purchased a new one and absolutely love it. I do agree, it was time for a new one😉