Sleeve Ham

Definition and Overview

A sleeve ham is an ironing aid with firmness and a rounded shape, made by filling a cotton cloth cover with stuffing. It is used to finish curved or tube-shaped areas that are hard to press on a flat ironing board without losing their dimensional shape.

The name comes from the English tailor’s ham, and it is also called a press ham. Depending on the product, elongated types for sleeves are also called sleeve hams, so check the shape and intended use before purchasing.

How to Use It

When opening seam allowances, place the seam so it follows the rounded curve of the ham, and press from above without sliding the iron. By shifting the position little by little along the curve, you can reduce unwanted creases on the seam or outer fabric.

For curved areas such as sleeve caps, cuffs, collars, darts, and shoulder seams, cover the area you want to finish over the ham and apply steam. Then let it cool without moving while heat and moisture remain, so the shape sets more easily.

• Use a pressing cloth with wool and similar fabrics to prevent shine and fading.
• When pressing interfaced sections or thick fabrics, check the result as you go so too much pressure does not come through to the right side.
• If you want to press only the fabric edge or seam allowance, position the rest of the area so it falls away into the rounded part.

Types and How to Choose

Common garment-making types are oval or egg-shaped, and some have different curvature and firmness on each side. Using the wider surface for large curves and the tip side for small curves or details makes it easier for the iron to reach the area.

When mainly finishing the inside of sleeves or narrow tube-shaped sections, a sleeve board is also effective. A sleeve ham is suited to creating localized rounded shapes, while a sleeve board is suited to pressing continuously through tube-shaped sections.

• Choose a size that matches the garment size and parts.
• Choose one with a smooth surface that is less likely to leave seam impressions on the outer fabric.
• If you use it often, one that resists flattening from steam and has an easy-to-care-for cover is convenient.

Care and Safety Notes

After use, let it dry out before storing. If it is stacked or sealed while still holding steam, it may cause odors or mold. If there are lint or scorch marks on the surface, remove them with a soft brush after it has completely cooled.

Leaving a hot iron on the same spot for a long time may discolor or scorch the cover and damage the stuffing. The appropriate temperature varies depending on the material and processing, so test the temperature and steam amount on a hidden piece of the same fabric before working.

Differences from Similar Terms

A sleeve board is a pressing tool used by passing sleeves or pant legs through a narrow board. In contrast, a sleeve ham locally supports curved seams, darts, and sleeve caps, and is a tool for pressing while preserving a dimensional shape.

A pressing cloth is a cloth placed between the fabric and the iron to soften heat and pressure. A sleeve ham is a tool that supports the shape from below, while a pressing cloth protects the surface, so they are used together as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions