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This is my go-to tool that once had me rolling my eyes...
Let me tell you how to use a Quilter’s Clapper so you start off on a better foot than I did. I’ll admit it – there are quite a few things I didn’t understand at first that had my eyes rolling at first and are now my must-have tools – the clapper being one.
I got my first clapper in a Holiday box of goodies from Riley Blake Designs and had no idea what it was or what it was for. I remember looking at this block of wood with a lot of confusion.
If you are looking at the photo the same way or want more tips about the history of the clapper and how I use it, watch the video below.
Shortcuts to Specific Topics
00:11 History of the Tailor’s Clapper
01:19 How to Set a Seam
01:29 How a Quilter’s Clapper works
02:35 Why a Quilter’s Clapper helps a quilt block
03:45 How to use a Clapper to make a key fob
05:47 Shape of a Quilter’s Clapper
06:34 How to decide when to buy tools
The History of Clappers
Tailor’s clappers were invented in England about 120 years ago. It is a hardwood pressing tool, usually made from oak or maple, that helps flatten seams when they are ironed with heat and steam. The dense wood absorbs the moisture and keeps the heat in, allowing the fibers in the fabric to cool and set in a flat shape.
This technique is now used by quilters and sewists to achieve professional results in quilt blocks and other projects.
How to Use a Clapper and Why it Works
After pressing a seam with an iron, you put the clapper on top of the seam while the fabric is still hot and steamy.
The wood absorbs the moisture and holds in the heat, which helps the fabric fibers “lock in” their new shape. This makes seams extra flat, crisp, and professional looking.
Using a clapper on bulky seams in quilting, like where multiple quilt blocks meet, is especially helpful to prevent seams from popping back up.
Flat seams help quilt blocks line up more accurately giving you better results in your finished quilt or quilted project.
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❤️ Tara Reed
