If you're a quilter, you're going to need a good quilting ironing board. And no, that skinny, wobbly board you've had for twenty years won't do the trick.
You'll need something that works for a large swath of fabric and a heavy finished quilt — something that doesn't tip over or cause you to trip over yards of material as you're trying to iron.
Fortunately, there are ironing boards made just for your quilting projects, so don't skimp on this important piece of equipment.
If you want a quality, beautiful finished product (and we know you do), invest in an ironing board that makes the job easier and safer.
Why do you need a quilting iron and ironing board for your quilting projects? Because you'll need to:
- Press seam allowances to get the most from your blocks of fabric.
- Press quilt blocks so they fit together exactly as they should when you assemble the quilt.
- Press all of the assembled blocks before you add batting and complete the quilt (for a smooth finished product).
- Press a completed quilt after washing or extended use.
You might wonder what makes for a quality quilting ironing board. Here's what you need to look for:
You Need A Reliable And Sturdy Ironing Board For Quilting
Most quilters ironing boards touch you at hip level is the most comfortable to use when you are piecing and constructing your latest quilting project.
Being comfortable while ironing is a key element in quilting since you'll be doing plenty of it.
Before you purchase an ironing board for your quilting adventures, check out these different features you’ll want to consider. Figure out what is important to you and your needs.
- Adjustable Height: Most ironing boards are adjustable. If you are taller or shorter than average, you may need to find one that adjusts to a comfortable height.
- Length and Width: Arguably, the most important feature is how large the ironing surface is. You want to find something that will fit your workspace and your needs.
- Breathability and Ventilation: If you plan on using a lot of steam and/or starch spray, pick an ironing board with a breathable cover and mesh top. You don’t want to use steam on a wood-top ironing board. The moisture will warp the wood, and you could create a mold issue.
- Sturdy Legs: When you want to press a whole quilt top, it’s crucial to have a sturdy ironing board. It can be annoying and potentially dangerous if your ironing board is wobbling while you move the fabric. Hot iron + wobbly ironing board= disaster.
- Washable Cover: When quilting, you may use different glues, dyes, starch sprays, or other things that may stain or cause a smell on your ironing board cover. It’s a plus if the board’s cover is removable and machine washable.
There are three types of quilting ironing boards available.
Since you’re ironing a quilt, you'll probably want a heavier-frame model, which will give you the stability you need to complete the task without a lot of unnecessary movement.
You also want a wide ironing board for quilting, so you have enough room to focus on different areas of the quilt without a lot of frustrating quilt maneuvering.
Ironing board gurus say the width is more important than length, but you need both for most quilting projects.
Here Are The Best Ironing Boards For Quilting Ironing
Choose from these 9 quilting ironing boards:
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Choosing The Best Quilting Ironing Board For Your Needs
Choosing an ironing board can feel like buying new tires for your car — necessary but boring.
But remember, this ironing board is going to serve you for a long time and help you create beautiful, quality quilts that can last for generations.
Take your time, and make your choice based on knowledge and a bit of research. You won't regret it.
Quilters have a lot of ironing board choices, but not all ironing boards can help you finish a large quilting project. And some ironing boards are expensive.
So when you choose an ironing board, make sure it has all the features you need to do different types of projects.
Wider ironing boards are better for quilters, and boards with adjustable height features are great quilting boards as well.
Which of these ironing boards is your favorite? Do you have another board you would recommend?