and it drove me nuts--so I ripped the padding out. It felt like the pressing was distorting the squares. I bought the cheapest cover because I liked that it was solid blue, :roll: but the foam padding was not helpful. I never would have anticipated this problem.

Now I'm ironing with just two covers on the board--and it's almost too hard. But it's better than too soft! :|

Anyone want to suggest the best padding? Maybe I should cut a piece of Warm & Natural for a pad?

That is exactly what I did, though I don't think it was Warm & Natural. It was a cheaper cotton brand.

Mine is too padded at the moment too. I should rip out some of the padding.

there is a really good thread on making a pressing board on this site. Has lots of good info. Here it is. http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-62721-1.htm

I got a thrifted 100% wool blanket then made a cover with an old sheet, it works like a charm. That was what my mama always used.

I used Warm and Natural for the padding and a lightweight canvas cover with thin padding that I found at a yard sale. My best combination ever.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LGbXou_u4c


sharon schambers pressing board - if you can stand the music.
she says exactly the same thing you're saying, that you need a firm pressing surface. these are her instructions.

I am currently searching for an old blanket, the foam pads that come with the boards are next to useless, even for non-quilters. I have a felt one, but it's just about had it's day.

Thanks for the information--and it's good to know I'm not nuts. :lol: I found this link from one of the other links--and there's no music. :-D http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LGbXou_u4c

Oh--it's the same link as above--the music is only in the beginning. :wink:

I used Warm & Natural on my board.

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That's what I've had for many years. My DH's old Army blanket with a sheet over it. I've been thinking of looking for another old Army blanket and making a new one, this one is getting pretty shabby looking. I think I changed it when youngest son was big enough to put some grape kool aid on it and spilled some purple dye on it. He'll be 43 next month.

I use a table top ironing board more often than my floor one. The cover is not heavily padded at all. I put a baby receiving blanket (repurposing!) on top of the cover then a cotton pillow case. Works perfectly for me!
Maureen

I use old blanket. works great for me.

I sometimes iron on a folded dishtowel so my ironing board won't wake everyone in the whole county as I try to extend the legs at 1:30 a.m., and it works great! I'd just try to find a towel that works for you & make it fit.

I didn't read all the comments, but I actually threw a piece of folded Warm & Natural over my sewing table with a towel on top and it works great!! It gives that extra lift, but it isn't too spongy.

Good luck!
Rachel