Small Ironing Surface and Larger Fusible Web Project
 

I would like to finish a wall hanging kit by McKenna Ryan. It is not huge, however I have a very small ironing board that just sits on the table. If I spread some batting (Warm and Natural) across my table will it act like an ironing surface? I am so worried that the tiny pieces will shift while I am trying to secure them to the background that I am afraid to proceed to the next step. The instructions sound as though all the pieces are to be fused at the same time.

Usually I do fusing in layers. Could I do this now? If you have made McKenna's projects would you do this? I have had this kit for several years now and would like to get it done.

What kind of table do you have? That might make a difference.

You might need multiple layers of 100% batting with a piece of fabric like duck fabric covering it to make it safe to use on your table. If you have a few old towels you can use instead of batting, that would probably work, too. Use painters tape to secure them in place at the edges of the table, with most of the tape placed under the table. Duck tape would work well for temporarily securing the ironing pad to the table, but the glue may be difficult to get off of the table.

Alternatively, go out and buy a piece of plywood and have it cut the size you want it. Cover it with several layers of batting and a nice heavy weight, iron-able fabric and secure the batting and fabric in place. Make sure the back of it will not scratch the table - maybe put a piece of fabric over it, too. Put it on the table, use it and then put it in storage for the next time you need it. Of course, that assumes you have a place to store it.

I would definitely "press" (not iron) the pieces one or two at a time. I press all of my quilts on a 16 x 24 Steady Betty pad.

I would use a towel, or maybe a flat sheet folded in quarters. If you have a surface you'd like to protect from heat and steam, definitely use more layers.

Make sure to use parchment paper, also, to prevent fusible from getting on your surfaces.

If you make a quilting surface with a board, you don't want but one layer of batting. It needs to be firm. Too much batting makes it too soft for good pressing.

how about getting a piece of masonite or wood that would fit on your dining table? Have it cut, add some knobs or feet to the bottom to keep it from scuffing up your table. staple a layer of batting and a top layer. I have used ironing board fabric (the silver stuff), cute novelty fabric but my fav is white or off white cotton duck. You can store it behind a door or under a bed. A handle that is not as deep as the feet would make it easier to pick up.

I have an old wool blanket that I bought at a garage sale the I put over my tables doubled and iron on it when I need a larger ironing surface and it works fine. You may need more than one layer to protect your table.

ANd if you're not using steam you should be ok. I you have a flat cookie sheet, you can place your iron on it by placinghe cookie or baking pan upside down so the iron can rest on it.

I use a silicone pastry mat with a layer of felt over it directly on my wood table and have not had any harm to my dining table.

of course, this mat was purchased for this reason and pastry has never touched it.