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A layer of fabric placed between the iron and the garment to protect delicate materials from direct heat, shine, and scorch marks.

Pressing both seam allowances flat in opposite directions from the stitching line, reducing bulk and producing a smooth, flat seam.

Pressing both seam allowances together in the same direction, adding strength and often required before edge-stitching or topstitching.

A shiny, flattened patch on fabric after ironing comes from too much heat and pressure crushing the fibers, common on wool and synthetics. Press with a pressing cloth and let steam, not pressure, do the work.

A seam that gathers or ripples along its length is caused by tension set too tight, a stitch length wrong for the fabric, or sewing fine fabric without stabilizing. Loosen tension and stabilize lightweight fabrics.