Pressing vs Ironing
Ironing moves the iron in a sliding motion across fabric. Pressing means placing the iron on the fabric, applying pressure, lifting, and moving to the next section. The distinction matters because sliding can distort grain lines, especially in bias-cut pieces and fabrics with directional texture. Pressing sets seams in place; ironing can undo them.
When to Press
Press every seam immediately after sewing, before any subsequent step. Press darts before sewing them to a larger piece. Press every folded edge before topstitching. Press the final garment in sequence — not all at once at the end. The compulsive pressing habit is the single most impactful change a sewer can make to their construction quality.
Tools
A quality iron with steam. A pressing cloth for fabrics that can't take direct iron contact (velvet, delicate embroideries, fusibles). A seam roll (a firm cylindrical cushion) for pressing seams open without the seam allowance edges imprinting on the right side. A tailor's ham for pressing curved seams. These tools are not expensive; they make a significant difference.