Monday, September 30, 2013

Industrial Iron

Let's talk iron. Or rather ironing. It is something we all do or at least have done at some point. There has been that one wrinkle that one crease that will just not stay down, on stage this could be problematic. You see, on stage a character's clothing is an extension of who they are a more visual representation of what a character is like on the inside and out. So an extremely noticeable crease could send the wrong message (or mixed messages) as well as not looking the best. Thankfully, there is hope. Yes, there is a light that shines bright in the dark world of frumpy clothing! A Gravity Feed Iron ...
Even the name seems to have weight when you hear or say it

But what exactly is this marvelous device, you ask? Well I will tell you; even you "guy in the back" who is unsuccessfully masking his joy with disregard. A gravity feed iron is an industrial strength iron that is used in most if not all costume shops and studios because of it's dependability and extended longevity.
The iron gets its name from having it's water supply in a hanging reservoir and having gravity direct the flow.

The iron itself, being heavy-duty industrial quality, weighs in at an average of four pounds. This leaves the user to apply less pressure on the garment and using the weight of the iron itself.
apparelmachinery.com/productimages/Naomoto_HYS-58
The hanging reservoir holds four liters and has a bag filled with resin, a demineralizer, so to further extend the life of the iron an minimize calcium buildup. The handle of the iron has a steam twitch that allows the valve to open and the hose to fill with water allowing the iron to superheat with the water and create the steam.
http://s3.amazonaws.com/RFSupply/sapporo-system.jpg

How do I use this spectacular machine? Well, it that is simple.

1. Hang bottle approximately forty inches above the ironing surface
2. Connect the silicon hose to the iron and the bottle
3. Empty demineralizer package into the bottle and fill it with tap water
4. Plug the iron cord into a grounded electrical socket
5. Set the temperature dial
6. Open the bottle valve and allow the hose to fill with water by pressing the steam switch. The iron is now ready to use!
7. When not pressing, place iron on a silicon pad.

You can purchase many number of Gravity feed systems however the price is a little high, however, when dealing with an extensive costume reserve and the demand to quick complete fixes this iron is a sound investment.

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