Skilled staff will generally have a preference as to whether they use a press or ironing table for such garments. There are two main problems associated with pleating:
• aligning the pleats in their correct position, and
• maintaining them in position during pressing or ironing.
The first is mainly a matter of skill and expertise, but keeping the aligned pleats in position can present problems.
Some staff try and hold the pleats using their free hand and then apply vacuum.
However, this can be difficult. When dealing with fine pleats, using straight pins to secure them in position can save a lot of time.
A pleating band is a good alternative to using pins.
This can be made from a length of fabric tape 1.5 – 2.0cm wide and approximately 80cm in length.
A suitable weight such as a nut or bolt is attached to each end of the tape.
Once a number of pleats have been correctly positioned, the pleating band is laid over them with the weights on each side of the buck/ironing table thus holding them in place.
This is often quicker than using pins and there is no risk of damaging fine lightweight fabrics. Occasionally and when working to the highest standards, pleat impressions can be a problem. In some cases and especially with box pleats , using a cardboard mask will prevent impressions. All that is required is to cut a piece of cardboard to size and insert it inside the pleat before ironing or pressing.
