Why not a ham?
This video shows you the reasons a tailor’s ham, aka a “pressing ham”, is a useful addition to your sewing (and ironing) wardrobe. I never used one until several years ago when I was on a super sewing binge. That’s when I really tried to improve my slap dash approach to something more sophisticated. While those attempts turned into annoyance, I have found my sewing and pressing aids really add to the pleasure of my sloppy sewing. Things are easier because of the shape of the ham.
And, I still sew, making shirts mostly, but now that I have more time than stress, I do want to make some more sophisticated clothes. Lately I have been wanting to sew a 1920s style dress, and am thinking of either hand stitching the whole thing. I think it would be perfect for summer. The ham will be perfect for anchoring my fabric so I can stitch on my project and put some tension on the fabric. I may also find my ham useful if I decide to master handsewn buttonholes.
But that is for another time, like when I get started on it. And I really should get started on that dress, come to think of it. The solstice is less than 3 weeks away!
Ink, Yarn & Beer 
“Wood flour?” The things you can buy on Amazon!
Thanks! I found the video informative. I’m trying to remember the last time I used my iron. I remember the time before permapress. That ham would have come in handy. Good luck with your projects, especially hand sewing a dress. Looking forward to seeing it completed. You are amazing.
Yeah, fancy name for sawdust! “Wood flour” my foot, or my ham. But now YOU are in the know, too, Kathy. ;-0
Anne, thanks – but right now I am sewing masks and going, wow, a machine is such a great tool . . . !
I used mine to iron the curved seam in making our masks. They turned out spiffy and professional.
Indispensable when needed – dust collectors otherwise!! I should try it out for the masks I am sewing today!! Thanks AV!