sewvicki

I have been using a clapper and I thought my seams looked flatter and better. My longarmer validated my belief when she mentioned how flat my seams were. I guess it works.

quilterpurpledog

I have used one since my tailoring days. I thought that it would make nice seams for quilting just like it did for dressmaking and tailoring. But, I like the idea of the rolling pin. I just might need to give that a try.

ArtsyOne

I have a stainless steel rolling pin - it doesn't absorb the steam like wood does, so my seams get hit from both top and bottom. Also have found that a stainless steel bench scraper is great for protecting my fingers from steam when pressing the seams of long lengths of binding.

Onebyone

Wouldn't you have to use a clapper even if you used the rolling pin? The purpose of the clapper is to remove the heat and steam from the fabric after it's pressed.

Sewing Cynthia

my husband does woodworking and had a maple 2x4 -- I use that! (wood needs to be a hardwood variety, maple, oak...) Flat!
(he had the wood laying around. to purchase, the clapper would be cheaper)

judykay

Never used one, please explain the purpose.

misseva

I scrounged a piece of 2x4 from my son-in-law's scrap pile. Sanded rough edges off and it works great.

NoraB

I purchased 2 of those clappers and I also have a wool pressing mat. Using them together, I love the results! I am keeping my eyes out for a sale on the clappers and will purchase 2 more of them. I love the wool mat also....I'm kind of sorry I didn't purchase a larger one (I got the 18" X 24").....I'd use the larger size up in a minute! Both good purchases in my eyes.

nativetexan

you might watch a video from Jordan fabrics. she uses a clapper at times. you just place it on the hot seam you just pressed and hold it there a bit. nothing to it.

Onebyone

You are suppose to slam the wood to the seam, thus the name clapper. There are lots of youtube videos how to use one.