The Best Alternative to Ironing

I never thought I would say this, but these days I hardly miss my iron.

A few years ago we installed a large number of solar panels on our home. Switching to solar energy has been one of the best decisions we ever made. During the summer months, we can almost live entirely on the electricity we produce ourselves.

There was only one small problem.

To avoid power peaks, we cannot run everything at the same time. The washing machine, the coffee machine and the iron all use quite a lot of electricity. In the beginning I often forgot. I would happily switch everything on at once!

Those little mistakes taught me something unexpected.

Did I really need to iron so much?

As it turned out... not at all.

Instead of reaching for the iron, I started using the same traditional tools that professional tailors and milliners have used for generations. Before long, I realised that I actually preferred them.

Today I use my iron much less than I used to.

My Favourite Energy-Saving Sewing Tools

The two tools I use most are a seam roller and a seam clapper.

They require no electricity at all, yet they can do an amazing job when making garments.

Not only are they environmentally friendly, they are also kinder to many delicate fabrics.

Why I Love a Seam Roller

A seam roller is a simple tool, but it is incredibly useful.

Instead of flattening seams with heat, you simply roll firmly over the fabric after sewing. The pressure helps to flatten the seam beautifully without using electricity.

It is especially useful when you are sewing for several hours and do not want to keep switching your iron on and off.

For me, the biggest advantages are:

• It saves electricity.

• It helps avoid power peaks when using solar energy.

• It saves time because there is no waiting for the iron to heat up.

• It is gentle on delicate fabrics.

• It is quiet, simple and always ready to use.

How Does a Seam Roller Work?

The tool is very easy to use.

Simply place your fabric on a flat surface and roll firmly over the seam. The pressure helps flatten the stitches without exposing the fabric to heat.

For stubborn seams, lightly spray the fabric with water or place a slightly damp cloth over it before rolling.

Always use gentle, even pressure. There is no need to force the roller.

The Wonderful Seam Clapper

Another traditional tool I would never want to be without is the seam clapper.

If you search online for one, you will see a beautifully shaped block of hardwood. It has been used in couture workshops for many decades.

After pressing a seam with steam, simply place the wooden clapper on top for a few seconds. The wood absorbs the heat and moisture, leaving an incredibly crisp, flat seam.

Even better, sometimes you do not even need the iron at all. For many fabrics, especially after careful rolling, the clapper alone gives excellent results.

Perfect for Bouclé and Couture Fabrics

If you have ever sewn with bouclé, you will understand why I recommend these tools so strongly.

Bouclé has a beautiful woven texture full of tiny loops. A hot iron can easily flatten those loops and destroy the rich surface that makes the fabric so special.

The same is true for many loosely woven tweeds, woollens and textured couture fabrics.

A seam roller and seam clapper allow you to shape the garment while preserving the character of the fabric.

This is one of the reasons these traditional tools are still found in many couture ateliers today.

A Small Change That Makes a Big Difference

People often think that sewing is all about the sewing machine.

In reality, good sewing is often about the finishing touches.

The right pressing tool can make the difference between a homemade garment and one that looks professionally made.

I still own an iron, of course, and I still use it when necessary.

But these days it stays switched off far more often than before.

That is good for our electricity bill, good for making the best use of our solar panels, and kinder to the environment.

Sometimes the old-fashioned way really is the better way.

Tip from Marga: Wonderful Sustainable Tools!

If you enjoy sewing, I can highly recommend investing in a good seam roller and a solid wooden seam clapper.

They are simple tools that have stood the test of time.

For delicate fabrics like bouclé, they are not just an alternative to ironing—they are often the better choice.

Sometimes traditional craftsmanship and modern sustainability fit together perfectly. This is one of those times.

Marga van der Vet, The Most Passionate Seamstress of All Times