What is a wooden iron? Glenn :?:

I finger press the seams first and I don't use steam when I press - I tend to stretch the fabric if I do - so I don't! LOL

I use steam for everything except paper piecing. You might try a pressing stick. They are sometimes called seam sticks. They are used in garment sewing and can be really helpful for narrow seams. I can ask about the web site tomorrow if you want.

Thanks for all the good info. I will try all that you mentioned and maybe I will rethink steam ( I have noticed it streches the fabric some). I am making a drunkard's path into an americana guilt and lots of ironing is required, curved seams you know. Glenn

finger press it first, I use my fingernail...it will stay open enough for you to press it

Recently I read on this board about someone using a wallpaper seam roller for seams. I am wondering if that could be used first, followed by the iron and get the results needed when lots of ironing is required.

Have your tried using wooden skewers? You can pick them up cheap at Walmart or 99 cent store or dollar store.

Just remember that we've all been there and done that! (And probably more than once!)

I hate steam and got myself a little dry iron from Home Depot.

When pressing seams open, I use a dress makers ham or sleeve roll. It grabs the fabric, and it doesn't move. A rolled up dish towel works too. Turn off the seam, and use one of the before mentioned tools to hold the seam open as you go. I saw this on a quilt show years ago. It works great for bias seams.

Here is a picture. Most of the LQS and online quilt stores carry them. They also come in Left and Right hand, so specify when ordering :)