ALL TOOL SCHOOL, Sewing/Quilting, Tool School Extra Credit

Extra Credit: Hot Hemmer Square & Hot Ruler Large

Hot Hemmer Square & Hot Ruler Large

By Shannon and Jason

Well… Clover has done it again. Just when we were looking for a product, here they are with exactly what we need. They have expanded their line of pressing tools to include the Hot Ruler Large and Hot Hemmer Square. If you are a garment sewist, the larger ruler is something you are already familiar with, and it is this product we were JUST looking for to use in our own garment making as well as to adapt for quilting. This is not the first time the folks at Clover seem to have been listening in on us like the secret agents in our cell phones and smart home devices that seem to KNOW when we are out of toothpaste, or batteries, or when we need that perfect patio umbrella. And, honestly, we’re not mad about it. Just saying…

These tools are perfect for general sewing and crafting on hems using different weights and styles of fabric. The new Hot Ruler Large has increased in size from 10” to 14” making it perfect for hemming garments and larger pieces of fabric like draperies because a longer and wider design means you have to move and readjust less often. This gives you an even result overall for a smooth, straight hem. The width has also increased from 2.5” to 4”. This means making wider hems and double hems for home décor like tablecloths and drapes is a breeze. Watch closely near the end of the video and you’ll see how using a wide double hem creates a rod pocket quickly and easily because you have better things to do with your day… like get on to the next project!

The new Hot Hemmer square is ideal for smaller projects like applique quilt blocks, patch pockets, and home décor like coasters and hot pads. At 6” square, you can quickly press seam allowances for any of these smaller projects without moving to readjust while pressing.

Oh… also be sure to watch how unbelievably easy it is to create mitered corners using either tool. So quick and easy… just follow the marked lines on either tool and your mitered corners are sharp and flawless like a perfect, winged eye liner.

It probably goes without saying that these tools are designed to be used with hot irons and steam without worrying about melting your rulers. BUT… you can also use them for more delicate fabrics using a cooler iron for pressing as we demonstrate with the silk swatch. We still obtain a clean pressing line, but the cooler iron and the soft edge of the tool prevents damaging the finer (often more expensive!) fabric.

Whether you use these larger tools for finishing a self-binding quilt, bedspread, or tablecloth or hemming a lace or silk garment, all you have to do is press, secure with some Wonder Clips, and you’re on your way to a perfect finish that will give all your projects a clean, professional look.

Pro Tip: We have more than one set of these because we throw a set in our travel project bags along with a travel iron. They are great for on-the-go projects but also make those quick repairs less stressful when the heel of your pumps snags and rips out the hem of your skirt of wide leg organza pants… what? It happens…